Martha Howa is a talented South African actress, known for her remarkable work in both television and film. While her career is still emerging, she has already gained recognition for her captivating performances across various genres, including drama, comedy, and historical series. Martha was born in South Africa, and over the years, she has established herself as a versatile actress with a bright future ahead.
Her work reflects the growing presence of African talent in international cinema and television, and she has gained recognition for her ability to portray complex, multi-dimensional characters. While much of her work has been in the South African entertainment industry, her performances continue to resonate globally, bringing a unique African perspective to the screen.
Martha Howa Movies and TV Shows
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009–2013 | Horrible Histories | Various Characters | Featured in 69 episodes; portrayed historical figures like Cleopatra, Queen Victoria, and Mary, Queen of Scots |
| 2013–2016 | Yonderland | Debbie Maddox | Co-created and starred in this fantasy comedy series |
| 2015 | Bill | Various Roles | Appeared alongside co-stars from Horrible Histories |
| 2015–2017 | Doctor Foster | Becky Hughes | Played Becky in this psychological drama |
| 2016–2017 | Noddy: Toyland Detective | Pat-Pat (voice) | Voiced the character Pat-Pat in this animated series |
| 2018 | EastEnders | Annie Pritchard | Appeared in 3 episodes of this long-running soap opera |
| 2019–2023 | Ghosts | Lady Fanny Button | Co-created, wrote, and starred in this hit BBC sitcom |
| 2020 | Breeders | Amber | Guest appearance in this comedy series |
| 2021 | Motherland | Ashley | Featured in an episode of this comedy series |
Movies and Film Career
The Forgotten Kingdom 2013
- Role: Mako
- Synopsis: The Forgotten Kingdom is a South African film that tells the story of a young man who returns to his rural village in Lesotho after the death of his father. In this poignant film, Martha Howa played Mako, a character who is deeply involved in the emotional journey of the protagonist. The film was praised for its stunning visuals and sensitive portrayal of African life, and Martha’s role added depth to the movie’s emotional impact.
The Last Victims 2017
- Role: Zanele
- Synopsis: The Last Victims is a dramatic film that addresses the harrowing experiences of South Africans during and after apartheid. Martha Howa played the character Zanele, a woman struggling to come to terms with the trauma of living through South Africa’s turbulent political history. The film emphasizes the long-lasting effects of apartheid on the lives of ordinary people, and Martha’s portrayal of Zanele received critical acclaim for its emotional authenticity.
Two Weeks to Live 2020
Synopsis: A UK-based series, Two Weeks to Live is a dark comedy-drama that follows the adventures of a woman who believes she has only two weeks to live. Martha Howa’s role as Grace introduced a new layer of mystery and complexity to the story. This role was important because it allowed Martha to step into the world of British television, showcasing her adaptability to different and genres.
Role: Grace
A United Kingdom 2016
- Role: Worker at the Office
- Synopsis: This historical drama, starring David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike, tells the story of Seretse Khama, the King of Botswana, and his relationship with an English woman during the 1940s. While Martha Howa’s role as a worker at the office is brief, the film itself received worldwide praise for its exploration of race, politics, and love during a difficult period in history.
Television Shows and Series
The Wife 2021 2022
- Role: Mbali
- Synopsis: Based on the popular Hillside book series, The Wife is a South African drama series that explores the lives of the wives of a powerful crime syndicate. Martha Howa played the character Mbali, one of the women caught in the complex world of crime and familial ties. The Wife quickly became a fan favorite, due to its thrilling plot and relatable characters, and Martha’s performance in the series was widely praised for its depth and emotion.
Nqobile 2018
Synopsis: Nqobile is a South African drama that tells the story of a young woman who finds herself caught between her traditional upbringing and her ambitions. Martha Howa starred in the lead role of Nqobile, portraying the inner conflict of a woman striving for success while dealing with societal expectations. The series earned Martha significant recognition in her home country and further established her as a talented actress.
Role: Nqobile
Muvhango 2019
- Role: Tenda’s Love Interest
- Synopsis: Muvhango is one of South Africa’s longest-running soap operas, and Martha Howa appeared as a love interest of the character Tenda. Her role was part of a larger storyline that included romance, drama, and personal challenges. Muvhango has a large fan base in South Africa, and Martha’s guest role was a notable appearance in the show.
The River 2018 2020
Synopsis: The River is a popular South African telenovela that follows the lives of two families from different social classes as they navigate corruption, greed, and power struggles. Martha played the character Karen in this drama, which was known for its gripping plot twists and excellent performances. Although her role was not one of the main characters, her presence on the show added to its emotional complexity.
Role: Karen
Tess 2021
- Role: Tess
- Synopsis: Tess is a drama series set in contemporary South Africa, and Martha Howa plays Tess, a woman struggling with balancing her career and personal life. The series highlights themes of family, relationships, and identity in the modern South African context. Martha’s portrayal of Tess resonated with many viewers, as the character dealt with situations many women could relate to.
This table summarizes Martha Howa’s significant roles in film and television, offering a snapshot of her diverse career and growing influence in the entertainment industry.
Stage Performances and Other Appearances
While Martha Howa is best known for her work in film and television, she has also performed on stage in several South African theatrical productions. Her work in theater is not as widely publicized as her on-screen roles, but her stage performances have contributed significantly to her acting versatility. Martha’s theater work has allowed her to explore different aspects of storytelling, from drama to comedy, adding richness to her on-screen presence.
Awards and Recognition
Martha Howa’s performances have been met with critical acclaim, earning her several nominations and awards in the South African entertainment industry. Some notable mentions include:
- Best Actress Nomination for her role in The Wife (2022) at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).
- Best Supporting Actress Award for The Last Victims (2017).
- Recognition for her lead role in Nqobile, which helped her garner a strong fan base in South Africa.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Beyond her acting career, Martha Howa is an advocate for gender equality and mental health awareness. She uses her platform to promote causes related to women’s rights, youth education, and social justice. Martha is particularly passionate about supporting mental health initiatives and has spoken publicly about her own experiences. Her philanthropic efforts have earned her respect in the industry and among fans.
She is also a proud supporter of African cinema and works to promote African voices in global storytelling. As a young actress who continues to rise in the entertainment world, Martha’s influence is growing, and she is seen as a role model for many aspiring actors in South Africa and beyond.
Conclusion
Martha Howa is an emerging star in South African cinema and television, with a career that promises to continue growing. From her early roles in The Forgotten Kingdom and The Last Victims to her standout performances in The Wife and Nqobile, Martha has shown that she is more than capable of tackling complex and emotionally challenging roles. Her versatility and talent in both film and television have established her as one of South Africa’s most exciting young actresses.
Her work, coupled with her advocacy for social causes, positions her as a role model not just for her acting ability, but for her efforts to positively impact the world around her. As she continues to take on new and varied projects, Martha Howa’s star is only set to rise in the world of entertainment.