Luthando BU Mthembu Biography: Early Life | Education | Big Brother Mzansi | Music Career | Adulting | Personal Life
Luthando BU Mthembu is a South African musician and actor who rose to fame after participating in the third season of Big Brother Mzansi in 2022.
He is also known as BU the Zulu Vegan, a name that reflects his heritage and lifestyle choices. He has since appeared in several TV shows and released his debut EP, titled “BUtiful”.
Early Life and Education
Luthando Mthembu was born in KwaMashu, a township in KwaZulu-Natal, on June 15, 1991. He grew up in a musical family, as his father was a jazz guitarist and his mother was a gospel singer.
BU attended Glenwood High School, where he developed his passion for music and drama. He was also a talented soccer player and represented his school in various tournaments.
After matriculating, Luthando enrolled at the University of Cape Town, where he studied economics and statistics. He graduated with honors in 2013 and landed a job as a research analyst at a prestigious firm in Johannesburg. However, he soon realised that he was not fulfilled by his corporate career and decided to pursue his dreams of becoming a musician and actor.
Luthando BU Mthembu Big Brother Mzansi Breakthrough
Luthando BU Mthembu Biography [Image: BU Luthando Mthembu/Facebook]
In 2022, Luthando Mthembu auditioned for the third season of Big Brother Mzansi. He was selected as one of the 20 housemates and entered the house under the alias BU.
He quickly became popular among the viewers and the other housemates for his charismatic personality, his honesty, his love and passion, and his vegan lifestyle. He also showcased his musical talent by performing original songs and playing the guitar.
BU formed close friendships with some of the housemates, especially Acacia, who he had a romantic interest in. However, his journey in the Big Brother house came to an end on Day 29, when he was evicted by the public vote.
Music and Acting Career
After leaving the Big Brother house, Luthando Mthembu focused on developing his music and acting career. He signed a record deal with Universal Music Group and released his debut EP, “BUtiful”, in June 2023.
The EP consists of six tracks that showcase his versatility as a singer-songwriter and rapper. The body of work received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, who praised his unique sound and lyrical skills.
Luthando also landed several acting roles in TV shows such as “Ayeye: Stripped”, “Redemption”, and “Adulting”. In “Ayeye: Stripped”, he played the role of Sbu, a young graphic designer who struggles with his sexuality and identity.
Luthando BU Mthembu Biography [Image: BU Luthando Mthembu/Facebook]
In “Redemption”, he played the role of Thabo, a former gangster who tries to reform his life after being released from prison. In “Adulting“, he played the role of Vuyani, an immature toy-boy who dates older women for money.
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He has worked with some of the most talented actors in the industry, such as Tina Jaxa, Stha Kgoroge, Themba Ndaba, and Rosemary Zimu.
Luthando BU Mthembu Personal Life
Luthando Mthembu is currently single and lives in Johannesburg. He is also an avid traveler and enjoys exploring new places and cultures.
BU is a vegan and an animal rights activist. He supports various organizations that promote veganism and animal welfare, such as PETA, Vegan Outreach, and Animal Defenders International. He also participates in campaigns that raise awareness about environmental issues, such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution.
