Pearl Thusi

Pearl Thusi, born Sithembile Xola Pearl Thusi on the 13th of May, 1988, is a renowned South African actress, model, and presenter. She is best known for impactful roles in multiple popular series such as Patricia Kopong in the BBC/HBO comedy-drama The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Dayana Mampasi in the ABC thriller Quantico, and Samkelo in the romance film Catching Feelings. In 2020, she landed a leading role in Netflix's first African original series, Queen Sono, firmly establishing herself in the international acting scene. Pearl Thusi originates from the townships of KwaNdengezi and Hammarsdale outside Durban and extended her footprint to Hammarsdale where she received her education at Pinetown Girls' High School. She initially began her tertiary education at the well-respected University of the Witwatersrand but had to withdraw to accommodate her blossoming career. In spite of the initial setback in her academic pursuits, in 2020, she resumed her studies at the University of South Africa. For career milestones, Thusi's impressive resume includes hosting Lip Sync Battle Africa on MTV and e.tv, Moments on EbonyLife TV, starring on SABC 3 soap opera Isidingo as Palesa Motaung, co-hosting Live Amp with DJ Warras and Luthando Shosha, and the SABC 1 celebrity gossip magazine show Real Goboza.