From behind-the-scenes to on-screen appearances, Keveshan Govender has made the seamless transition from directing backgrounds to gaining the spotlight when he featured in the Netflix drama series Blood Legacy.
Set against the backdrop of KwaZulu-Natal, Blood Legacy opens with the shocking discovery that the CEO of Spear Industries was found dead in the region’s lush sugar cane fields.
This tragedy ignites a fierce struggle among his children as they vie for control of their multibillion-rand corporation.
The 20-episode series dives deep into a world rife with corruption, greed, and unyielding ambition; challenging the siblings to confront the fragile boundaries of loyalty and betrayal.
Govender, of Westbrook, an executive producer and casting director, recently served as a background casting director for the series. He was then offered the guest starring role of Kiroshan by the line producer.
He portrays a personal assistant to the city’s powerful premier, Navi Naicker played by Bianca Simone Mannie.
“My character's name is Kiroshan and if there’s one thing that I love about playing this character, is Kiroshan’s sense of fashion,” said Govender.
“I was absolutely elated not just to be offered the character, but also to have the opportunity to collaborate with some of South Africa’s talented individuals in the industry.
"Sharing the screen with Chunky Phiri, who portrays Nkanyamba, and Bianca Simone Mannie, who plays my boss, the influential premier of the city, Navi Naicker, was an incredible experience. It truly felt amazing to work alongside such esteemed actors.”
He added: “I feel grateful and proud, especially looking back when I entered the industry. There were not many opportunities for people of my colour, and to see that the industry is finally broadening, and more opportunities are being given makes me extremely happy.”
Govender has done cameo roles in the past. He played Dr Patel in a local TV show as well as a journalist in Kings of Mulberry Street the Sequel.
“My colleagues and family are my biggest supporters, and they were surprised when they saw my role in Blood Legacy.”
In his free time, he finds peace in writing and listening to music.
Govender, who is the CEO of KG Castings & Productions, which is a KZN-based casting directory as well as a production house, is currently working on a few of his own productions.
“My overall dream in this industry is to travel the world and work on more international projects.”