Behind Closed Doors with Actor Mbali Buthelezi

Mbali Buthelezi is an actor and model from Ireland, who recently attended the 2025 iPOP! convention in Los Angeles. With the guidance of AMTA, her director Denae Griego, acting coach and alumni iPOP! attendee Josh Griego, she has been crafting her skills as an artist.

Since starting her career journey Mbali has been in numerous theater productions, as well as short films. Recently she has filmed a short film with cinematographer, director Sara Pantoli on her new short film. Mbali is not afraid of working on diverse projects as she has a passion for creating different forms of art through film of photography.

When not practicing acting, Mbali enjoys learning languages like Zulu and Korean, bouldering and listening to 1950 and 1960’s music.

Welcome Mbali, congratulations on a successful time at iPOP! What did you enjoy most about the experience?

Meeting people and learning about the industry and honing my craft. I loved the support of everyone there.

What is your dream project?

To work with great visionaries, whether it be Marvel, critically acclaimed, or indie projects. As long as the story speaks, and there’s amazing writing/cinematography, directing.

What do you love more, acting, musical theatre, singing, modelling?

I love acting more, it makes me feel whole. An escapism for me. Especially when I know I’ve given my 1000%.

If you could book any TV show, what would it be and why?

The TV show “Euphoria”. I love cinematography and how they are not afraid to write challenging characters, real problems and issues in a beautiful way. The Bear feels real like a conversation and then there’s a camera, subtle acting. Even though it makes you anxious in a good way.

Who are your favorite actors?

I have actors I admire and wish to work with, Jon Bernthal, James McAvoy, Zendaya only a few. Each and every role they do whether it be small or big, they give their 1000% in their performances. And their performances just connect with audience because it feels true not saturated.

Who are your favorite singers?

Willow, Doh Kyungsoo, Labrinth. Their voices are soothing and different from most singers. Their songs/ sounds are very different from the norm of mainstream radio music. You can tell they make music for the love of it whether or not it makes money or goes viral. So, I feel they put more effort into it. They also are not trying to be another artist but themselves.

Do you have a favorite monologue to do?

Yes, it is Love from the Netflix show You, because it’s a rollercoaster of emotions but you understand the characters POV. It’s like a release, for the character after playing along or a fake version of themselves.

What is one thing you can’t live without?

Positive mindset and understanding because you never know what people are going through so we shouldn’t jump to judge everything something says or does.

Tell us 3 things people would be surprised to know about you?

I am an introvert, old soul in young body, not afraid to be experimental

How can people connect with you?

People can find me on Instagram.