Algoa FM presenter and Gqeberha local, Lee Duru, has been featured in the global news giant - The New York Times for her role as Grace Zihlangu in “Recipes for Love and Murder”. The series is based on the Tannie Maria Mystery books by Sally Andrews.
Set in the picturesque Karoo, the series introduces audiences to a mixture of human drama, sweet treats, and tasteful humour. The series weaves intricate threads relating to domestic abuse, racial inequality, and the legacy of apartheid.
In playing a character whose storyline focuses on a mother’s love for their child, she digs into her emotional reverb and role as a parent. She also references the women in her community as an influence in her portrayal of Grace, making Grace a relatable character.
In a recent New York Times article, Duru sheds light on the true experiences of black domestic workers in South Africa. The character description of Grace as a woman with ‘gravitas’ is what initially drew Duru’s attention to the role.
The New York Times notes how Duru’s use of the word 'gravitas' speaks to dignity and respect which is often not associated with a domestic worker. The use of the word humanises the domestic worker role, which is often portrayed as humorous or a caricature.
Read more about the cast interview with the New York Times here.
Those who missed the initial run on MNET can binge the full season of “Recipes for Love and Murder” on Catch-up. For international audiences, it streams on Acorn TV every Monday. You don’t want to miss out!
Watch the full trailer of the series on Acorn TV’s YouTube channel.
