An unexpected beginning
When Wilhelm van der Walt first enrolled to study psychology, he had no idea that he would become one of South Africa’s most recognisable actors. Best known for his unforgettable role as Ty Prinsloo in 7de Laan, Wilhelm has since carved out a multi-dimensional career across television, film and live theatre. His journey, however, was anything but straightforward. It was a winding path of risk, reinvention, and an unwavering belief in the power of stories to transform lives.

Born and raised in Bloemfontein, Wilhelm’s early life didn’t point directly toward a future in the arts. His childhood was shaped by a close-knit community, a deeply religious upbringing, and a love of film that provided both escape and inspiration after his parents’ divorce.

“I never saw drama as a career,” he admits. “But I was obsessed with actors. I’d watch a movie and couldn’t believe it was the same person in two different roles.”

It wasn’t until an audition for a university musical that everything changed. “I saw a poster, went to try out for the chorus, and that one decision introduced me to a tribe I didn’t know I needed,” Wilhelm recalls.

From student to stage
After switching to drama, Wilhelm quickly found his footing, bolstered by the mentorship of inspiring lecturers and directors. A pivotal moment came during a touring theatre production where he received unexpected praise for his performance, despite not yet understanding the full craft of acting. This desire led him to pursue a master’s degree at Stellenbosch University, which further refined his technique and built his reputation in South Africa’s theatre circuit.

Becoming Ty Prinsloo
Wilhelm’s breakout moment came unexpectedly, like many others in his story. A spontaneous group trip to Johannesburg for an open casting call at 7de Laan led to a small guest role. Two years later, he was offered a permanent position playing one of the show’s most notorious villains.

While many actors might see such a high-profile role as a career peak, Wilhelm saw it as a creative test. “I was hesitant to be tied down,” he says. “But I took the risk and gave it a year. It turned into three of the most formative years of my life.”

The role not only introduced him to a national audience, but also taught him how to work under pressure, collaborate within a fast-paced production environment, and handle the unexpected realities of fame.

Theatre, healing, and the power of solitude
Despite his success on screen, theatre remains Wilhelm’s emotional home. “TV is great, but theatre gives me full creative ownership,” he explains. “From the first rehearsal to the last show, it’s a spiritual process.” He’s also passionate about wellness, especially mental wellness in the creative field. Meditation retreats, time in nature, and even therapy sessions (sometimes with his character in mind) are all tools Wilhelm uses to stay grounded.

In one particularly intense stage role, Wilhelm portrayed a man sent to prison for drunk driving, a play that dealt with gang violence and sexual trauma. “That role pushed me to emotional depths I didn’t know I had. But it also showed me how theatre can truly change people.”

Investing in the future of the arts
Today, Wilhelm’s career spans multiple mediums, from high-profile telenovelas to radio voiceovers and audiobook narrations. He’s also focused on mentoring the next generation of South African actors. His recent work includes teaching masterclasses in the Meisner technique, a method he studied in Berlin, and exploring plans to open his own acting studio in the years ahead.

When asked what the industry needs most, Wilhelm doesn’t hesitate: “We need more writers. South Africa is full of untold stories, but they need funding, mentorship, and space to grow.” He also urges young creatives to be honest with themselves about their passion.

“If you’re thinking about becoming an actor and I tell you not to do it, but you still do it, then you probably should be doing it,” he laughs. “This work demands everything. But if you love it, it will give everything back.”

Looking ahead
With a new one-man show debuting soon and ongoing theatre projects touring the country, Wilhelm shows no signs of slowing down. He’s committed to using his voice, on stage and off, to tell stories that matter, challenge the status quo, and create space for others to rise. “Whether I’m on a soapie set or a silent retreat, I just want to be part of something real,” he says.

And real is exactly what Wilhelm van der Walt delivers, one role, one story, one performance at a time.

Listen or watch now
This episode isn’t just for aspiring actors or the 7de Laan fanbase, but for anyone interested in storytelling, creativity and inspiring journeys taken on the road less traveled.

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