Popular South African actress and content creator Linda Mtoba has candidly shared her experiences with the financial and emotional challenges of working in the entertainment industry. Her recent comments have sparked a widespread online discussion.
The former River and Queen’s star revealed that although acting brought her fame, it is her brand partnerships that have become her primary source of income.
In a video clip shared on social media by user @mbalis_bakery, Mtoba discussed the intense demands of acting and why content creation has become a central focus in her career.
“The money that I make month-end [from acting] is equivalent to a one-day content shoot,” she revealed.
Acting Is a “Labour of Love”
Mtoba, who is also a Vaseline brand ambassador, described acting as deeply rewarding but incredibly demanding.
“It takes away so much. It takes you away from your family, even from your time. And when you are off, you’re too tired,” she explained.
She detailed the grueling schedules actors face, working as much as six days a week, including weekends.
“You leave when it’s still dark and come back when it’s dark again. I leave at 5 in the morning and come back at 7 at night,” she said.
Social Media Reacts
Mtoba’s transparency resonated with many online users. Some applauded her honesty, while others debated whether acting could still be financially rewarding with the right roles and contracts.
User @reality_everyth commented: “This girl on TikTok said she got 100k for working with a brand.”
Another user, @TebohoMotaung, shared a different perspective: “I think it depends on the role and how you negotiate your contract… Acting can pay well too.”
@Siya_ZAR added: “She’s getting more recognition and marketing from TV, that’s why she gets more brand deals.”
A Changing Industry
Linda Mtoba’s experience sheds light on a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where digital influence and content creation are increasingly becoming more lucrative than traditional media roles.
While acting still holds prestige, the financial rewards may not always match the effort, especially when compared to the fast-growing world of influencer marketing.
Her story serves as a reminder that fame doesn’t always equate to fortune, and in today’s digital world, creators can leverage their brands into powerful revenue streams.
