SA-born actress Lesley-Ann Brandt, 37, lives with her husband Chris and one-year-old son Kingston in LA. She stars in the Netflix series Lucifer as Mazikeen. Woman&Home had the chance to catch up with her a few weeks ago to chat about her current obsessions. Lesley shared how she’s been listening to classic jazz albums and cooking up a storm in the kitchen for her son and hubby – SA dishes abound!
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What series have you binge-watched recently?
I’ve just binge-watched another Netflix series Dead To Me and it was incredible. The female-driven show with Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini blends dark themes with comedy in such a unique way. I also really like watching nature documentaries and learning more about conservation efforts and how something like plastic waste can affect the earth. Equipping yourself with knowledge on how to conserve our planet is invaluable.
Any novels you’ve been hoping to read?
Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming. It’s on my nightstand, so I pick it up whenever I have a day off from set.
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What music have you been listening to as of late?
I regularly listen to Toni Braxton’s self-titled debut album. I can’t help but sing along at the top of my lungs when songs like ‘Breathe Again’ or ‘How Many Ways’ are playing in the car.
Any new skills you’ve been trying to get the hang of?
I’ve been learning how to play the guitar. I’ve enjoyed singing ever since I sang in the primary-school choir, and I’m hoping the guitar lessons I’m taking will help me combine the two talents soon.
Where’s your favourite spot for a shopping spree?
I prefer online shopping, because it saves a lot of time. Moda Operandi is one of my favourite sites because it offers straight-from-the-runway items. If I’m not online shopping, I’ll most likely be in a vintage store. What Goes Around Comes Around in Beverly Hills is also a great shop that sells collector’s pieces from the ‘80s and ‘90s.
What do you find yourself scrolling through the most on your phone?
Instagram. My friends and family are scattered all over the world and it’s nice to see what they’re up to. I know it doesn’t replace a phone call or a text, but it does help me to keep up with everyone’s antics. I also like to think of my social media pages as a place where women can uplift each other through like-minded conversations. I don’t tolerate bullying or rude commentary on my pages and try to restrain it from my end as much as I can.
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What are you normally whipping up in the kitchen?
I often make a traditional South African curry for my husband and son, except I make a vegetarian version with lots of veggies like chickpeas and potatoes. I grew up in Cape Town so making curry or having a braai always makes me feel like I’m home.
What’s next on your travel agenda?
My husband and I are planning a trip to the Almafi Coast in Italy later this year. We got married in 2015, but because I was filming the first season of Lucifer, we never went on honeymoon. Now, four years later, we finally have the time to take a romantic break!
Catch Lesley in the latest season of the hit TV series Lucifer, available to stream on Netflix now.
By Features Writer Marike Watson
