Zakeeya Patel (born 6 January 1988), is a South African actress and presenter. She is best known for her roles in the series Isidingo, 7de Laan, and High Rollers.
Zakeeya Patel
| Born | January 6, 1988
Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
|
|---|---|
| Alma mater | University of Cape Town |
| Occupation(s) | Actress, presenter |
| Years active | 2008–present |
| Height | 1.56 m (5 ft 1 in) |
| Spouse | Rob Price (m. 2017) |
| Children | 1 |
Early life
Patel was born in Durban, South Africa. She is of Indian descent on her father’s side and Coloured descent on her mother’s. She graduated with a BA Honors Degree in Theatre and Performance from the University of Cape Town.
Career
In 2005, she played the role of ‘Samantha Sharma’ in the television soap opera Isidingo, which later became highly popular. In 2006, she became the champion of Season 6 of the South African competition Dancing with the Stars. In 2012, she appeared in the comedy film Material, playing the role of ‘Aisha Kaif’. In 2013, she appeared in the show High Rollers. In 2014, she performed in the stage play Emotional Creature, which provided her the opportunity to work with acclaimed American activist and writer Eve Ensler.
In 2018, she acted in the film The Docket. In 2019, she appeared in the Netflix original series Shadow and in Showmax’s thriller film The Girl from St. Agnes. Later that year, she played a supporting role in the film 3 Days to Go. In 2020, she starred in the sequel to the 2012 film Material, titled New Material.
Personal life Patel married economist Rob Price in a multicultural interfaith ceremony in November 2017. They moved to Los Angeles, California, in December 2019.
Filmography Film
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Material | Aisha Kaif | |
| 2013 | Nothing for Mahala | Nurse Taz | |
| 2013 | Previously on Childrens Hospital Africa | Short | |
| 2015 | Die Pro | Jasmine Farat | |
| 2015 | The Jakes Are Missing | Nancy | |
| 2019 | 3 Days to Go | Candice | |
| 2020 | New Material |
Television
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | The Wild | Amita Kahn | |
| 2013 | High Rollers | Dhanni Rangila | |
| 2014 | 7de Laan | Video Blog Girl | |
| 2014 | Mzansi Love: Big City Love | Buhle Patel | |
| 2014 | Skwizas | Lydia | |
| 2015–16 | Isidingo | Samantha Sharma | |
| 2017 | Thula’s Vine | Kim K | |
| 2018 | The Docket | Lexie Patel | |
| 2019 | The Girl from St. Agnes | Sharon McMahon | |
| 2019 | Shadow | Sarah |
Conclusion
Zakeeya Patel has established herself as a versatile and talented actress in the South African entertainment industry. From her early breakthrough in Isidingo to her notable performances in films like Material and its sequel New Material, Patel has demonstrated her range and dedication to her craft. Her success on both the small and big screens, along with her victory in Dancing with the Stars, underscores her multifaceted abilities. Patel’s move to Los Angeles marks a new chapter in her career, promising further growth and international opportunities. Her personal and professional journey continues to inspire many, reflecting her commitment to excellence and her passion for storytelling.
