If you are Ugandan, you have probably watched the flagship NTV series, DECEPTION. It features Milka Irene as Monica the main actress. Stella Nante is the rival side chic who ruins the decent marriage between Chris and Monica. Of course, we can’t forget the work of Nalweyiso, the intolerable mother-in-law who made life a living hell for Monica. Sorry, to cut a long story short (smirks); today we dive into the life of Stella Nante. Read to the end to find out how she coped with the hate she received for playing the villain. You can watch the full interview below.
Who Is Stella Nante?
Stella Nante is a Ugandan female actress who has captivated audiences with her remarkable performances and charismatic presence on screen. She is popular for acting as the villain in the films she appears in and it looks like the gorgeous actress has mastered this as an art. Born on November 24th, 1993, to Mr. Kasibante Joseph and Noelina Nanyonga, Stella Nante grew up in a large extended family. The DECEPTION flagship villain told Kampala ET, “I was raised in the company of 7 brothers and 7 sisters. I come from the central region of Uganda, I am proud of my Buganda heritage. Being a Muganda is a privilege that brought me the rich cultural experiences I gained from my upbringing.
How Stella Nante Fell in Love with Becoming an Actress
From an early age, Stella displayed her natural talent for entertainment. “I was known as the “Ice breaker” during my school days, said Stella, “often called upon to bring laughter and joy to my classmates when the atmosphere turned dull and sleepy.” Her vibrant personality and ability to make people laugh paved the way for her journey into acting.
“Coming from a family deeply involved in music, dance, and drama,” reveals the actress, “I was naturally inspired to act. Eventually, the same spark got to my brother Allan Katongole, also known as Allan Kutos.” Allan is a prominent actor in the popular drama series “Sanyu” on Pearl Magic DSTV. Stella says she made it a priority to introduce her other siblings, Conrad, Andrew, and Allan, as well as her cousin Breedy Marvin, to the world of acting. Witnessing her brother Michael Ross’s success as an entertainer in music and dance further fueled Stella’s passion for becoming an entertainer herself, albeit in the realm of drama.
Who Inspired Stella and which is her greatest achievement?
“I was inspired by my older brother Michael Ross.” said Nante, “The truth is, I introduced my other older brother Allan Kudos to acting. His first role was as a family doctor in the film Second Chance. From that point on, he has never looked back. Furthermore, my greatest achievement is writing and directing the award-winning short film MBAJJO in the This is Uganda Short Film Competition. It was organized by Mr. Ntare Mwine Mbaho Guma, a Ugandan-Hollywood-based actor, and producer. Out of the hundreds of submissions in that competition, Mabajjo won the title of Best Short Film overall.”
Stella Nante talks about her toughest times
The actress told Kampala ET that her toughest moments have been in her line of work. She reminisces about the day when she met the incredible John Segawa.
“His way of storytelling is quite different and interesting. He has that ‘Simon Cowell’ kind of approach. He will push you to be yourself, and use your creative imagination to execute a role. So when I joined his team, at first, my character was soft, kind, and God-fearing. Think all things a young Christian married woman would be.”
The transition from soft to hard woman
She added, “When “Dorcas” was transitioning from that whole life to a whole new person, things became really hard. I had to do more research on current affairs and learn how to use my voice and body language. I couldn’t do it. Mr. Segawa pushed me to the limit, and I broke down; I couldn’t take it anymore. For him, he saw something great in me. As for me, I didn’t believe in myself. I got so emotional, and I wanted to leave the set because the director was tough and particular about what he wanted.”
“I ran to the restrooms,” Stella blushes, “and I cried my heart out. When I came back, he told me to go ahead and cry blood. Segawa insisted I had to go deeper into my imagination and do it. So that’s how Segawa and I started building the powerful, ruthless, principled yet intelligent and God-fearing “Dorcas” you see on your screens. It’s been the most challenging part of my acting career. However, it pushes me on edge to learn something from that role to build my confidence, presence, intelligence, and power as a woman in society.”
Cantalicia, wife to Salvador in Second Chance Telenovela
Her second most daunting situation was auditioning for the role of a “mad woman” in a certain movie. It was deja vu also when she took the role of “Cantalicia” in Second Chance. “My looks literally did not impress the director.” Stella added, “He said, you’re too cute for the character. I insisted that I can do it.
After makeup and costuming, people actually thought I was really ‘mentally disturbed’. Even when we were shooting, some people were running away from me thinking I’m going to throw stones at them.”
At what point did Stella’s success begin?
“My turning point came when I participated in an ICT and leadership skills program organized by Ian Clark, a member of parliament from the Makindye Division.” said Stella Nante, “Attending the program at the KiBO Foundation opened doors for me to explore my acting talents.” After joining a film group in Kisugu and auditioning, the then-young lady secured lead roles in three movies. Her remarkable performances caught the attention of other directors, who invited her to feature in their projects. “It was during this time that I acted in the movie Like a Rose, a campaign aimed at raising awareness and acceptance for people going through health problems,” she added.
How Stella Got On NTV Uganda Deception Drama Series
We asked the jolly actress and this is exactly what Stella had to say! “During my time at university, I met two individuals who played a crucial role in shaping my career: Kerryl Namubiru and Bridget Senoga. Their encouragement and recognition of my comedic talent pushed me to take acting more seriously. Through Bridget, I met Milka Irene, who was shooting the pilot for the TV series DECEPTION set to air on NTV Uganda.
Interestingly, Milka was impressed with my abilities, so she introduced me to the director, Mr. George Kihumba. Mr. George eventually gave me a role in the series.” DECEPTION became Stella’s breakthrough project, airing on NTV Uganda for six years and receiving multiple nominations and awards. “I was hated for being a “man snatcher” in the series to the point that people thought it was my real-life personality. However, I loved it because I wouldn’t say I like easy things. Playing the villain always forces me to stretch from my humble personality into a power-hungry, sarcastic woman!” she laughed.
The proverbial light at the end of the tunnel
Stella’s success in “Deception” opened doors for her in the Ugandan film industry. “I formed valuable connections with filmmakers and producers at NTV Uganda. They include Madam Xena Bantariza, Diana Beta, and Rosemary Nampijja, both within and outside the company,” she revealed. Her subsequent projects, such as “Second Chance,” “False Dreams,” and “Half London,” showcased her versatility and dedication to her craft. In 2019, Stella worked with Mr. John Segawa, the writer, director, and producer of The Honourablez. “I was given the role of Madam Dorcas, a powerful yet controversial boss.” Stella adds, “Portraying this character has been my most challenging role to date. It requires me to transition from a soft and kind woman to a tough and principled figure.” However, Stella cherishes the growth she has experienced through this role, both as an actress and as a person.
What else does Stella Nante do?
Beyond her acting career, Stella has also ventured into modeling. She has appeared in advertisements for prominent brands such as DSTV Uganda (Pearl Magic), New Vision, Airtel Uganda, and the Ministry of Health. She has become an influencer for Tusker Malt, further solidifying her presence in the industry. While Stella enjoys the perks of fame, including recognition, free passes to events, and offers from various brands, she understands the responsibility that comes with her popularity. “As a role model for young people,” says Stella, “I strive to uphold a positive image and make a meaningful impact on my fans. It is important to stay true to oneself and do what is right. That’s in spite of the temptations and pressures that fame brings.”
Message to the young generation
“Find peace in knowing that YOU too can achieve your dreams!” exclaimed Stella, “Maintain patience, hard work, and perseverance. Also, debunk the illusion of instant success often portrayed on social media. Make sure you identify your passion, set goals, and seek guidance from experienced individuals in your chosen field. Above all, prioritize your relationship with God and draw strength from your identity as children of the Highest.”
