Putla Sehlapelo: Biography, Age, Actor, Wife

Putla Sehlapelo (born 3 March 1979) is a South African actor best known for his long-running role as Deputy Principal Alfred Magongwa on the popular SABC1 soap opera Skeem Saam. He has earned widespread recognition for his consistent performances and commanding on-screen presence.

Biography: Putla Sehlapelo

Real Name: Putla Sehlapelo

Place of Birth: Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa

Date of Birth: 3 March 1979 (Age - 47)

Occupation: Actor

Known As: Deputy Principal Alfred Magongwa

Spouse: Neo Sehlapelo

Children: 3 - two sons and one daughter

Nationality: South African

Early Life and Education

Putla Sehlapelo was born on 3 March 1979 in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa. He grew up alongside five siblings, which shaped his grounded and disciplined character. From an early age, he developed an interest in the arts.

To pursue this passion, he enrolled at the University of Pretoria, where he obtained a drama degree. As a result, he built a strong foundation that prepared him for a long and successful acting career. ^[1]

Acting Career of Putla Sehlapelo

Sehlapelo has worked in the South African television industry for over 25 years, steadily building a reputation as a versatile and dedicated performer.

He gained significant attention in 2008 when he played Maloro Lerothodi in the SABC1 mini-series Death of a Queen, part of the “Shakespeare in Mzansi” strand. This role marked a breakthrough moment in his career. ^[2]

Subsequently, he appeared as Tiro Lebone in the M-Net soap opera The Wild (2011–2012), where he portrayed a BEE millionaire. This performance further showcased his range and ability to embody complex characters.

However, he achieved his greatest fame through his role as Alfred Magongwa, the strict and authoritative Deputy Principal in Skeem Saam. Through this character, he became a household name, captivating audiences with his intense and memorable performances. ^[3]

In addition, he has featured in several other productions, including Thola (as Steve Kefentse), Intersexions, Society, Generations (early guest role), The Lab, Soul Buddyz, and more recently Queen Modjadji.

Because of his consistent work, he has earned industry recognition, including a SAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a TV soap opera. Despite these achievements, he remains humble and focused on his craft. ^[3]

Personal Life of Putla Sehlapelo

In his personal life, Putla Sehlapelo is married to Neo Sehlapelo. Together, they have three children—two sons and one daughter. Although he maintains a public career, he keeps his family life relatively private. As a result, many people regard him as a devoted husband and father. ^[4]

Other Details

As of 2026, Sehlapelo is in his mid-40s and continues to play a significant role in South African television. On social media, he is active on Instagram under the handle @putlasehlapelo, where he occasionally shares glimpses of his family life and behind-the-scenes moments from his work. Sehlapelo has helped several actors to be recognized such as actor Thabo Mkhabela.

Filmography