Rapulana Seiphemo biography, return to generations, producing Paradise stop and more

Big-time South African actor Rapulana Seiphemo (born 4 November 1967) is best known for his iconic role as Tau Mogale in Generations 16 and The Legacy. Moreover, he excels as a filmmaker, writer, and lecturer.

Over the years, Rapulana has become one of South Africa’s most respected performers. Furthermore, his journey from Soweto to national stardom is inspiring and full of lessons.

In addition, his story is packed with achievements, challenges, and memorable moments. Keep reading to discover the life and career of this entertainment icon.

Biography of Seiphemo Rapulana

Full name:	Seiphemo Rapulana
Date of birth:	November 4, 1967
Place of birth:	Meadowlands, Soweto, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Education:	Texas A&M university
Height:	1.75m
Occupation:	Actor, Editor, Producer and writer
Known for:	Paradise stop, Jerusalem and White Wedding, Generations as Tau Mogale
Net worth:	$3.5 million
Instagram:	@rapulana
Nationality:	South African

Early life

Rapulana Seiphemo was born on 4 November 1967 in Meadowlands, Soweto. In 2025, he is turning 58 years old. He grew up in Johannesburg, where he developed a strong passion for the performing arts from a young age.

His early life in Soweto and Johannesburg shaped his love for storytelling and prepared him for the successful career that later made him one of South Africa’s most respected actors and producers.

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Education of Rapulana Seiphemo

Rapulana Seiphemo was born and raised in Meadowlands, Gauteng, South Africa. In 1991, he attended Anchor Comprehensive High School in Orlando West, Soweto, where he completed his secondary education. After graduating, he chose to continue his studies abroad.

He enrolled at Texas A&M University in Brazos County, Texas, in the United States. There, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts and expanded his academic interests. Moreover, he studied English, acting, sociology, theatre production, and psychology, gaining a broad and valuable skill set.

In 1995, Rapulana earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. This strong academic foundation not only sharpened his talents but also prepared him for a versatile and successful career in the entertainment industry.

Personal life

Rapulana Seiphemo was born on 4 November 1967 in Meadowlands, Gauteng, South Africa. In 2003, he married Olga Rubeiro at the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel in Ezulwini, Swaziland. Together, they have three children, including actress Katlego Seiphemo.

However, their marriage faced challenges, and in 2013, Seiphemo was briefly detained following a domestic violence incident. Despite this, the couple remained together for several more years.

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Controversy with Zoe Mthiyane and recent marriege

In 2017, he began a relationship with actress Zoe Mthiyane, his co-star on Generations: The Legacy. Moreover, their relationship drew media attention, especially when Mthiyane revealed in 2023 that Seiphemo had been seeing another woman simultaneously. This situation reportedly contributed to Mthiyane’s struggles on set and her eventual departure from the show.

By 2020, Seiphemo became involved with Zandile Tshukulu, the granddaughter of Generations creator Mfundi Vundla. In addition, the couple welcomed a child in October 2020.

Later, on 27 September 2025, they formalized their relationship with a traditional wedding ceremony attended by close friends and family, marking a new chapter in his personal life.

Controversies

Rapulana Seiphemo, renowned for his role as Tau Mogale in Generations: The Legacy, has been at the center of several controversies throughout his career, spanning personal misconduct to legal issues.

Infidelity and Relationship Strains

Rapulana Seiphemo’s personal life has drawn significant media attention due to allegations of infidelity. In 2015, he admitted to being unfaithful to his wife, Olga Rubeiro, with two women, including actress Zoe Mthiyane. Consequently, this revelation sparked public scrutiny and strained his marriage.

Moreover, Seiphemo became involved with Zandile Tshukulu, the granddaughter of Generations creator Mfundi Vundla, while still in a relationship with Mthiyane. Reports indicate that he fathered a child with Tshukulu, which reportedly contributed to Mthiyane’s departure from the show, citing bullying and emotional distress.

[ZAlebs]

Tax Evasion Charges

In 2018, Seiphemo faced legal challenges when he appeared in the Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court on charges of tax evasion. He was accused of contravening South Africa’s tax laws, specifically facing five counts related to unpaid taxes. The case drew public attention, highlighting issues of financial accountability among public figures. [Daily Dispatch]

Public Altercation with Fan

In 2015, Seiphemo was involved in an incident at a Johannesburg restaurant where he allegedly slapped a fan who requested a selfie. The altercation, which occurred at the Newtown News Café, was widely reported and criticized, raising questions about celebrity conduct in public spaces. [Daily Dispatch]

Departure from Motsweding FM

In 2019, Rapulana Seiphemo resigned from Motsweding FM, where he had hosted a Saturday breakfast show and a Sunday evening show. His departure followed disagreements with station management, particularly after one of his shows was dropped, leaving him with only a single slot. Consequently, this led to a public fallout and briefly affected his professional image. [ZAlebs]

Career highlights of Rapulana Seiphemo

Rapulana Seiphemo first gained recognition in 1989 when he impressed audiences with his performance in the stage production of My Children, My Africa at the Market Theatre.

As his career progressed, he appeared in several high-profile productions, including The Merchant of Venice, The Piano Lesson, The Blacks, and Saturday Night.

After returning to South Africa in 1995, he took on the role of Tau Mogale, a teaching position at the Federated Union of Black Artists Academy (FUBA Academy).

The following year, he began teaching at Sibikwa Community Theatre Company. Moreover, in 1997, he expanded his teaching career by lecturing at Wits University, further establishing himself as both a performer and educator in the arts.

Recent career work

Rapulana Seiphemo, renowned for his role as Tau Mogale in Generations: The Legacy, made a notable return to the series in July 2024. His comeback was met with mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing enthusiasm, while others felt his reappearance was predictable IOL.

In addition to his television work, Seiphemo has been involved in various projects. For instance, he participated in the SERAKATUMA Arts Pilot Initiative in Mahikeng, showcasing his commitment to nurturing emerging talent in the arts Facebook.

Seiphemo’s recent endeavors reflect his ongoing dedication to the entertainment industry, balancing his iconic television roles with contributions to the broader cultural landscape.

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Net worth and Salary

apulana Seiphemo has built a successful career as an actor, filmmaker, and lecturer, making him one of South Africa’s most respected entertainment figures.

Over the years, his roles on hit television shows like Generations: The Legacy, as well as appearances in theatre and film, have earned him substantial income.

Moreover, his ventures as a producer through his own production company have significantly boosted his earnings. As of 2025, Rapulana Seiphemo’s estimated net worth is around $3.5 million, reflecting his talent, business acumen, and dedication to the entertainment industry.

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Social Media

He is on all social media platforms under the username @rapulanas. He uses this very same username on all the three major social media platforms, facebook, Instagram and twitter.

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