‘Success Is About Staying True To Yourself'

SA-born actress Kandyse McClure, 38, shares her passions, fears and memories with Stephanie van der Plank. She’s separated and lives between homes in Joburg, Toronto and Los Angeles

- Stephanie van der Plank

What is your earliest memory? Playing in my granny’s garden in Durban with my best friend, who lived next door. Our favourite game was ‘Restaurant’, as we got to use my special Fisher-Price kitchen set. My mom had me when she was quite young, so when she was working I’d spend the day at my gran’s.

Did you have a career plan B? I wanted to be an obstetrician, if you can believe it. I had dreams of delivering babies, or even becoming a midwife. But acting got under my skin. I performed in a local theatre festival when I was about 18, and an agent contacted me after that. Since then, one job has led to the next… and I’m still going 20 years later.

Best decision you’ve ever made? Calling that talent agent back all those years ago. He left a message offering to organise an audition for me but, like a typical teen, I had no sense of urgency – I was too busy celebrating the end of high school! After a month, I returned his call – and he’s still my agent today.

And the worst? I deeply regret selling my flat in Vancouver – it’s never a good idea to get rid of property. My friends always say, “Buy land if you can, they don’t make it any more.” Wise words.

What is your biggest achievement? I’m proud of the support network I’ve built around me – family, and friends who are like family. I travel so much for work, so it’s not always easy to nurture strong relationships, but there are a handful of people I’ve known for years who have stuck by me. I know I can rely on them, and they feel the same about me.