Seen Here: Elton Landrew portrays Tariq Cupido in kykNET’s acclaimed drama series Beter as gister. His moving performance as a grieving father navigating loss, healing and the unexpected bond with his granddaughter has resonated with viewers, highlighting the series’ powerful themes of family, forgiveness and second chances. Photo Credit: Supplied
JOHANNESBURG – Just a month after its debut, kykNET’s heartfelt drama series Beter as gister continues to captivate audiences with its emotional storytelling, relatable characters and deeply human themes of love, loss and healing.
At the centre of one of the series’ most touching storylines is acclaimed actor Elton Landrew, whose moving portrayal of Tariq Cupido has resonated with viewers across South Africa.
Landrew plays a grieving husband and father whose life is forever changed after the loss of his daughter. As Tariq gradually develops a relationship with the granddaughter he barely knew, he begins an emotional journey of forgiveness, healing and rediscovering hope.
The role, Landrew says, is one of the most meaningful experiences of his career.
“It was such a wonderful, memorable experience to work with great directors Corné and René van Rooyen, whose passion and vision brought this beautiful story to life,” he said.
“Working alongside the amazing cast, as well as our crew and production team, will always remain close to my heart.”
He also praised the young cast members whose performances have added authenticity and emotional depth to the production, giving special recognition to Alexis Newman, whose portrayal has won over audiences.
“A special mention to the young children on set, especially Alexis Newman, who has stolen viewers’ hearts,” he said.
A story that speaks to everyone
Although Beter as gister is told in Afrikaans, Landrew believes its emotional themes transcend language and culture.
Quoting one of the many positive reviews the series has received, he noted that while the dialogue is Afrikaans, the story explores universal themes that connect with audiences from all walks of life.
“The story is told in Afrikaans, but the themes deal with fatherhood and family bond themes that are universal,” he said.
“To know I was part of that is a privilege and an honour.”
The series explores difficult yet familiar emotions, including grief, fractured family relationships, second chances and the enduring power of love.
Bringing real-life experience to the screen
Although Landrew does not have children of his own, he says his real-life experiences helped shape his performance.
He revealed that helping to raise his late sister’s two sons provided valuable insight into the responsibilities, sacrifices and unconditional love that define family.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to help raise my late sister’s two sons into the young men they are today,” he said.
“Being their uncle has been one of my greatest blessings and has also helped me with the approach to the role I play on the show.”
That personal connection has enabled him to portray Tariq’s emotional journey with authenticity and compassion.
A message of hope and healing
For Landrew, the heart of Beter as gister lies in its message that healing is always possible, even after profound heartbreak.
He hopes audiences will leave each episode believing that broken relationships can be restored and that every new day offers an opportunity to become better than the day before.
“The message is a universal one which deals with themes of loss, regrets, changes and difficult challenges,” he explained.
“Whether toward ourselves, in life or especially with loved ones, the takeaway can be that things can always be ‘Beter as gister’—better than yesterday—if we are willing to take the time to learn how to make it better tomorrow.”
Storytelling that resonates
As Beter as gister continues to earn praise for its honest writing, powerful performances and emotional authenticity, it has established itself as one of kykNET’s standout drama series.
By tackling themes of fatherhood, family, forgiveness and resilience with sensitivity and sincerity, the production reminds viewers that healing is rarely immediate—but with courage, compassion and connection, brighter tomorrows are always possible.
New episodes of Beter as gister air every Tuesday at 20:00 on kykNET (DStv Channel 144), while previous episodes are available to stream on DStv Stream and DStv Catch Up.
