Actor and entrepreneur Joe Kazadi is stepping into a new chapter of fatherhood and life, one defined by growth, privacy and a stronger support system. While many still associate him with the early days of solo parenting in the public eye, Joe says much has changed behind the scenes. Today, his focus is on raising his children and protecting the peace of his family.
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Known for his roles in The Queen, Uzalo, Scandal and Smoke and Mirrors, Joe reckons fatherhood has pushed him to think beyond acting, inspiring him to build generational wealth and a lasting legacy for his children.
As we celebrate Father’s Day, the actor opens up in this conversation with BabyYumYum about how fatherhood has evolved over the years. He reflects on moving beyond single parenthood, the value of a strong support system, the realities of raising children and why emotional presence matters just as much as provision.
How has becoming a father shaped your life and experiences to date?
It’s been good. Like any family, there are ups and downs, but overall, it’s been great and I’m happy. Even during times when, as actors, we don’t have work, I remain thankful for my kids. Fatherhood has brought me joy and I feel proud knowing I made the right choices for them.
Having previously shared your experience, what has the journey of single fatherhood taught you so far?
A lot has changed and I don’t feel like I can speak about one child without including the other.
What has been the most rewarding part of raising your children?
The hardship comes from always wanting the best for your kids. Even if you give them 91, you still want to give them 100. For example, wanting to put your children in the best private schools, but sometimes being limited. I still appreciate God for what I can provide. As parents, we always want the best, but there are moments when we fall short.”
How would you describe your relationship with your children, especially your oldest daughter?
It’s beautiful. She’s great. She’s with her mom and they’re okay and I’m okay too.
Which part of being a dad brings you the greatest joy?
I enjoy knowing that one day someone will carry my name when I am no longer here. Legacy is what I value most.
In what ways has becoming a father influenced the man you are today?
It has changed the way I think about business, growth and life beyond acting. I am involved in various ventures now because I want multiple sources of income to give my children the best. Fatherhood has pushed me to grow into an entrepreneur and a creator.
What does showing up for your kids mean in your life?
First of all, you must be there spiritually and emotionally. Many fathers are physically present but not emotionally involved. If you cannot be there financially, you show up physically. If you are blocked physically, you show up spiritually. Being present is a combination of all these things.
Beyond providing financially, what does showing up as a father look like to you?
You must be present. Kids remember things from a young age. Showing up at school functions, sports days and talent shows, those memories stay with them forever.
You’ve chosen to keep a lower profile recently. What influenced that decision?
I am private now because children need to be allowed to be kids. Social media can become overwhelming and we often forget that. I reached a point where I wanted my daughter to enjoy her childhood without constantly being in front of the camera. Fame should be her choice one day, not something imposed on her.
What has fatherhood revealed to you that caught you off guard?
Fatherhood taught me that sometimes two families can misunderstand each other and in those moments, you have to rise above your ego for the sake of the child. It showed me the importance of putting their well‑being first, even when it requires humility and compromise.
As we celebrate Father’s Month, what does Father’s Day mean to you?
Father’s Day means recognising that men also sacrifice a great deal to provide. I have seen fathers wake up at three in the morning to be at work by five. Fathers deserve to feel appreciated. Whether it’s a braai, a restaurant outing, a hike, or simply enjoying peace and quiet, Father’s Day is about showing that appreciation.
How do you like to celebrate Father’s Day with your family?
This year, I’d love to spend it with my family and kids, just enjoying quality time and love. Maybe we’ll do a photoshoot to capture memories, have a braai somewhere, or relax together. For me, it’s about being present and celebrating the bond we share.
Do you believe the role of fathers is still undervalued today?
Yes. Society often thinks children need only their mothers, but fathers contribute significantly to raising a child. Especially for boys, fathers help shape discipline and structure. Girls also learn from their fathers how men should treat them. Being a father is very important.
Have you ever experienced times when you questioned yourself as a father?
Yes, there have always been moments. We all go through failures. I ask God for strength and continue trying my best. I just hope my kids remember the wins more than the failures.
In your experience, what’s the toughest part of fatherhood that rarely gets discussed?
At the end of the day, you don’t have a choice but to plan. Sometimes those plans can push fathers into difficult decisions, because no parent can sit at home while their children go hungry. Fatherhood often means carrying that pressure quietly and finding a way forward even when the options aren’t ideal.
Could you share more about the support you’ve received from women in parenting?
I’m surrounded by beautiful women: my mom, my sisters, the mothers of my kids. They are all there.
How are you planning to turn your farm and businesses into something that sustains generations?
My mom always says If you invest in the soil, the soil will feed you for the rest of your life. I want my kids to always have something. Even if it’s just farming cabbage and selling it, they’ll have food on the table. I’ve also become more private because people watch everything public figures do.
What has been the lowest point in your journey as a dad?
A couple of years ago, when there was no work and nothing was happening. That tested me because I couldn’t really do much as a dad during that time.
Why do you think some men struggle to be emotionally present fathers?
I don’t think most men struggle. Sometimes it’s the environment around them. Men naturally settle where there’s peace and understanding. But I’ve seen many South African fathers become proud of being present dads now. That mentality is changing.
Have you had to unlearn anything to become the father you are today?
Yes. I had to unlearn speaking only like an adult and learn to communicate in a child’s language because kids have their own way of expressing themselves. Connecting with them meant meeting them at their level, not just expecting them to understand mine.
What lesson are you intentionally trying to teach your children every day?
I teach them to make me proud and to be good people. We go to orphanages and give back so they grow up understanding kindness and doing good.
A few years ago, you lost your brother. How have you been emotionally since then?
It affected me a lot. Christian was more than a brother; he was my best friend. We had dreams together and saw them start to come true. Losing him the way we did felt like life robbed me of something. For a long time, I struggled emotionally and even with acting. But now, four years later, I’m finally starting to heal.
Has there been any progress regarding the case?
No, nothing has happened. As a family, we just want peace now. Nothing will bring him back. We want him to rest peacefully.
In closing, what message do you have for other fathers?
Whether you are blocked from seeing your child or not, do your part and be the best father you can be. Sometimes things are beyond our control.
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