Candice Modiselle Reveals Why She’s Turning Down Acting Opportunities
Candice Modiselle, the 30-year-old South African actress, has become increasingly selective about the acting roles she accepts, prioritizing her faith and personal principles over fame and fortune.
While this has led to fewer projects in recent years, Modiselle remains steadfast in her commitment to only take roles that align with her values and glorify God.
Turning Down Gigs in a Competitive Industry
Modiselle clarified that her reduced presence on screen is not due to a sabbatical or stepping away from acting, as many have speculated, but because of her intentionality in choosing roles.
“I’m not taking a break from acting,” she explained. “I’ve just become very particular about the kind of roles that I do, and for that reason, I say no more than I say yes. It might look like I’m not doing anything, but I’m okay with waiting for roles that resonate with my values.”
This approach has not been without its challenges. The South African entertainment industry is highly competitive, and turning down work can come at a financial cost.
Balancing Opportunity and Conviction
For Modiselle, the decision to decline certain roles is guided by her faith and trust in God. She acknowledges that walking away from potentially career-changing opportunities is never easy, but it is a discipline she has developed over time.
“Sometimes, I look at a character and think, ‘I can’t play this character,’ but then I see it could be a global opportunity, something that could change my career trajectory,” she said.
While tempting, she prioritizes her convictions over the potential benefits of the role. “If I look at the full scope of work and realize that it doesn’t glorify God, I’m okay to walk away. It’s tough, but it’s a muscle I’ve developed. Saying no has become easier because I know God will honor me in my obedience.”
Exploring New Frontiers in Animation
Despite her selectivity in traditional acting roles, Modiselle has found success in other areas, particularly in voice acting for animated projects. She has lent her voice to internationally acclaimed productions such as Disney’s Kizazi Moto and Panda Bear in Africa.
She reflected on her unexpected journey into animation with gratitude.
“I didn’t know animation was an industry accessible to me. When I thought of animation, I imagined massive platforms like Disney or Nickelodeon, and I never thought someone like me, who grew up in South Africa, could get an opportunity,” she said.
“The fact that I’ve done a Disney production is completely insane. It’s been such a precious experience. I grew up as a peculiar child, and now I get to use those peculiarities in ways I never imagined. I can’t wait to do a thousand more projects and explore the different characters in my voice box.”
Looking Ahead: A Year of Personal Growth
Modiselle is also focusing on her own projects in 2025, with a particular emphasis on giving back to her community. One of her passions is fostering a love for reading among young people.
“I’m finally working on my own projects, many of which are in the NGO space,” she shared.
Her plans include setting up reading labs and clubs for disenfranchised communities and hosting reading competitions.
“I want to create a space for young people to start reading again, especially in forgotten spaces. It’s something I’m incredibly passionate about, and I’m excited to see it come to life.”
Staying True to Her Values
As Candice Modiselle continues to navigate her career, her unwavering commitment to her faith and purpose stands out in an industry often driven by ambition and profit. Whether it’s through her selective acting roles, her blossoming voice-acting career, or her community-focused initiatives, Modiselle is proving that success can be achieved without compromising one’s principles.
Her journey serves as an inspiration, showing that with faith, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, it is possible to thrive both professionally and personally.
