What has it been like to work as a cast member of 7de Laan?
The show operates under a meticulous system, unlike Generations and Scandal!, as 7de Laan has a different approach to the genre which sees us working more closely with the director, almost like a theatre production. All in all, it's been great fun.
How is your Afrikaans?
It's not that good at the moment but all I lack is practice. I grew up in Cape Town where my father spoke very fluent Afrikaans. I understand the language better than I speak it.
Have you always enjoyed performing?
I was a singer long before I was an actor. In Cape Town, the standard of performance is very high and my whole family sings. My mother used to teach us in the kitchen while we helped her with the dishes every night. We would stand there, drying and packing dishes and all sing together.
When I was six, she used to force my brother, Pat, and I to visit orphanages and old age homes to entertain the community, saying it would brighten their day.
How did you become an actor?
After school, I went to work in a bank as it seemed like a solid career. Pat called me from university and said, "Mommy says you are unhappy and partying late into the night?" He told me to write a list of my likes and dislikes. Most of my likes included painting, sculpting, performing and singing. So I went to study fine arts and my acting career took off.
How did your family react to this?
My parents never boxed us in, my mother's family was always involved in community theatre in Cape Town so they were all supportive. My father used to say if we like beef stroganoff more than chicken curry that's fine - we must eat whatever is going to make us happy. In the same way, he always allowed us the freedom to make our own decisions.
Are you married or single?
I am divorced and I have an 11-year-old son, Conner Lee Pillai, who lives in Australia with his mom. He has lived there for five years and it makes me sad to be apart from him but he has more opportunities there. He has won two tennis tournaments. I see him once a year for about four months.
What do you do when you are not acting?
I prefer to stay out of the social pages. My family has a holiday home in the bush and I enjoy spending time there. I love writing - I'm busy with a musical - and enjoy cooking. My signature dish is a lamb roast with all the trimmings.
Who is your favourite South African actor?
I admire Marius Weyers - I have watched him all my life.
Do you have any future projects that you are working on?
I'm rounding up famous South African actors who sing, too, and arranging evenings where they are entertained by their favourite celebrities at good restaurants.