SA actress picked to judge Emmys

SOUTH African actress Bubu Mazibuko is set to rub shoulders with Hollywood stars at this year's 42nd International Emmy Awards.

Mazibuko, who sits on the awards judging panel, jets out of the country on November 20, to attend the event in New York.

The Soweto-born actress, who has tackled both film and TV extensively, is excited to represent the country internationally. She said she was judging the drama category.

"I received an invite because I was part of the judging panel. But I will also be representing South Africa in that regard."

The 39-year-old actress regards her selection to the Emmys judging panel as a high achievement that will give her career a boost.

"I view this as a huge honour and achievement. I am proud of it because I judge international shows.

"It is one of the achievements that will force the world to take me and my art seriously.

"Being selected also means the local industry trusts me enough and has faith in what I do," she said.

Asked how she landed the selection, Mazibuko said she got chosen as she has been judging the South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) for years.

"They were looking for someone who is very experienced when it comes to judging the television awards. I am glad that the committee elected me."

Mazibuko has appeared in films such as Long Walk to Freedom alongside Idris Elba and Naomie Harris. She also acted in Jerusalema, Catch a Fire, Gazlam, Yizo Yizo, A Place Called Home, Entabeni and Hopeville among others.

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