From Stage to Stardom: A Playful Encounter with South Africa’s Robert Whitehead
In a sun-drenched apartment adorned with crimson fabrics and bohemian furnishings, veteran South African actor Robert Whitehead welcomes me with his characteristic mix of wit, defiance, and theatrical flair. At 73, the man who brought the notorious Barker Haines to life in “Isidingo” may now walk with a stick, but his spirit remains as spirited and unpredictable as ever.
Born in Johannesburg in 1950, Whitehead’s journey to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated actors began with childhood plays alongside his sister. After studying textile and furniture design in London, he pursued drama at the Drama Studio in Ealing, launching a remarkable 50-year career spanning theatre, television, and film. His notable film credits include “Mr. Bones” (2001), “The Dark Tower” (2017), and “Sew the Winter to My Skin” (2018).
Our interview quickly transforms into an impromptu performance, with Whitehead setting up an imaginary payment system for photographs (R100 per shot!) and periodically announcing impromptu naps. Between sips of tea and playful evasions, he shares glimpses of his current life, shaped by recent heart failure that’s forced him to step away from the stage.
The conversation takes a poignant turn when discussing “Isidingo,” where he spent over a decade as the deliciously evil billionaire Barker Haines. His voice softens notably when remembering Ashley Callie, who played his daughter Leonie Haines until her tragic death in 2008. He also reflects on the recent passing of Michelle Botes, his on-screen wife, in December 2024.
Between studying his atlas with a magnifying glass (Google is firmly rejected) and professing his love for American authors Gore Vidal and Elmore Leonard, Whitehead offers sage advice to aspiring actors: “They just have to trust themselves and keep at it. If you believe that’s what you’re going to do, then you must do it.”
The interview concludes with a surprisingly touching moment as we discuss a Victor Hugo quote about stars emerging from darkness. This veteran of South African entertainment, despite his deliberately difficult demeanor throughout our chat, reveals a profound understanding of life’s darker moments and the unexpected light they can bring.
Currently, Whitehead continues his artistic journey through radio plays with SABC4, proving that even when the stage lights dim, new creative pathways emerge. Though he may play the cantankerous elder statesman, there’s no denying the stars that still shine in his remarkable legacy.
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