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‘I’m taking back what’s mine’ – Thandie Newton embraces her original name ‘Thandiwe’
By desimartini.com
Five years ago, celebrated actress Thandie Newton grabbed headlines and hearts when she reclaimed her original, Zulu-spelled name, Thandiwe, translating to “beloved” in the African language. This act of embracing her heritage served as a poignant reminder to all about the importance of one’s roots, personal identity, and the power to define oneself.
The “Westworld” star had previously navigated her illustrious career under the anglicized version of her name – Thandie – a casualty of her early entry into the world of show business as reported by Yahoo Entertainment. But at the mature age of 48, she unapologetically declared, “That’s my name. It’s always been my name. I’m taking back what’s mine.”
Thandiwe: The Name Behind the Fame
Born in London to a British father and a Zimbabwean mother from the Shona tribe, Thandiwe’s roots extended from the bustling streets of the UK to the heart of Africa. However, the struggles of racism and identity she faced due to her mixed heritage were profound. During her time at a Catholic school, her distinct African attributes such as cornrows were deemed unfit, creating a harsh environment for the young Thandiwe.
As an aspiring actress, she was forced to search for work outside the UK due to a dearth of opportunities at home. Thandiwe once said, “There was a lot that people could have been interested in in me when I was young. They didn’t want to express it, because they didn’t want to praise the black girl.”
From Thandie to Thandiwe: A Turning Point
Over time, Thandiwe has emerged as a potent voice against racism and in favor of authentic representation. She has become more outspoken about her personal experiences, utilizing her platform to shed light on societal issues. Reflecting on her role in the acclaimed series ‘Westworld,’ she proclaimed, “Wherever I position myself now, I don’t want to be part of the problem, I want to be part of the solution.”
Thandiwe made it clear she was no longer just a hired actor. She had evolved into a woman ready to narrate stories that could have been her own. As she revealed in her Vogue interview, “I’m not for hire anymore. I’m not going to speak your story or say your words if I don’t feel they could’ve come from me.”
Today, we look back and appreciate the boldness in Thandiwe’s decision to reclaim her name. It was not just an act of reclaiming her identity, but a statement that resonates with everyone who has ever felt the pressure to fit into a mold that isn’t theirs. As Thandiwe Newton herself noted back in 2016, “Thandiwe is a Zulu name meaning Beloved. Thandie is an abbreviation. You don’t have to pretend anything.”