'Skeem Saam' actress Hellen Motsuki, best known for her role as Melita Kgomo, is celebrating her birthday with special news: she is expecting her second child with her husband. The actress shared the exciting announcement to BabyYumYum on Monday, 19 October 2026 — meaning she is pregnant both on and off screen.
A few weeks ago, Hellen announced on the official Skeem Saam social media pages that her character, Melita Kgomo, was expecting a baby. The announcement had viewers speculating that she might be expecting in real life as well. She finally put the viewers’ speculations to rest in this exclusive interview, announcing that she is expecting her second baby.
Having recently wrapped filming in Skeem Saam, Hellen is enjoying some well-deserved downtime at home as she prepares to welcome the newest member of her family.
Speaking to BabyYumYum, she opens up about her planned pregnancy, becoming a mother for the second time and being pregnant while her character, Melita, is also expecting.
Congratulations on your pregnancy, Hellen! How are you feeling as you prepare to welcome your second baby?
How does it feel to experience pregnancy personally while telling a similar story on television?
It’s been a beautiful experience. Melita is pregnant and so am I, which has helped me connect with some of the emotions in her storyline. Sometimes people see me at the mall and wonder whether I’m still wearing a pregnancy bump for my character or if it’s real! Of course, Hellen and Melita are different people, but experiencing pregnancy at the same time as my character has been a real blessing.
Melita’s pregnancy comes at an interesting time in her marriage to Mr Kgomo and viewers are curious about what lies ahead for the couple. How do you think motherhood will change Melita and can audiences expect a different side of her character?
Motherhood can bring out many different sides of a person, and I think it will give viewers more opportunities to see Melita’s vulnerability, strength and complexity. I don’t want to give away what lies ahead, but audiences can keep watching as her journey unfolds. As an actress, I try to approach each part of her story with empathy and honesty.
How has the transition from a busy filming schedule to preparing for your baby been?
It’s been a big adjustment. Work keeps me busy and brings me joy, so stepping away from my filming schedule has given me a chance to slow down, listen to my body and focus on preparing for the baby. I’m trying to make the most of this time by resting and enjoying the simple things at home, including spending time with my family, baking and tending to my garden.
With your pregnancy and Melita’s pregnancy happening at the same time, have you found yourself drawing from your own experiences to bring more authenticity to her storyline?
Yes, my own experience has given me a deeper understanding of some of the emotions Melita may be feeling. Pregnancy can bring vulnerability, strength and many different feelings at once and that helps me approach her story with empathy and honesty. At the same time, I remember that Melita’s circumstances are her own, so I draw on what I can relate to without simply playing myself.
You are already a mother to a son. How has your experience of motherhood shaped your expectations and preparations for welcoming another baby?
Being a mother has taught me so much about love, patience and being present. My son is the apple of my eye and having him beside me through this journey has meant a great deal. I know every child and every experience is different, so I’m welcoming this new chapter with excitement and an open heart. I hope to keep being a loving, understanding and present mother to both my children.
You have spoken before about the challenges of balancing acting with family life. How are you making sure you prioritise yourself and your family during this pregnancy?
It takes discipline and I’m learning to listen to myself and find balance. Some days I get it right and other days I don’t, and that’s part of being human. I’m trying to take things one day at a time and make space for my family and my wellbeing. My love and passion for what I do keep me going, but so does my love for the life and family I’m building.
You have been married for many years and have chosen to keep much of your marriage private. How has your husband supported you throughout your career and what has his support meant to you as you prepare to welcome another child?
I’m grateful to have my husband beside me during this special time. When I found out I was pregnant, I was so happy that I hugged him right after hugging my doctor. Having the love and support of my family means a great deal to me as I prepare to welcome another child. I value our privacy, but I’m thankful to share this journey with him.
Are there any lessons from raising your son that you will carry into this next chapter?
My experience as a mother has taught me how important it is to be loving, understanding and present. I want to champion my children, guide them and be a strong voice for them whenever they need one. I also see having children as a gift from God and a responsibility I take very seriously. My hope is to raise them with love and care and to help them feel safe, supported and deeply loved.
As you prepare to welcome your little one, what message would you like to share with your fans?
I want to thank everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my journey. Your love means so much to me, and I’m grateful to be able to share this special chapter with you. I hope you’ll continue to follow my journey, both on screen and in life.
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