The Coconuts sitcom is having a moment on social media, uniting South Africans in laughter. One character in particular, Patience (actress Shaleen Tobin), is finally getting her flowers, thanks to the renewed interest!
South Africa (11 August 2024)—It’s been over a decade since The Coconuts hit the screens. But, thanks to TikTok, the Coconuts is having a massive moment once again as South Africans unite in laughter. With the revived interest in the show, love and adoration have made a beeline for one of the show’s main characters—Patience Hlatshwayo (actress Shaleen Tobin) in what can only be described as the actress finally getting her flowers all these years later.
A blast from the past, the Coconuts aired in 2008 and aimed to tackle cultural differences in South Africa as a comedy. But undoubtedly, the character who filled many of our childhoods with the most laughter was Patience—a character who had to navigate life after she was turned into a white woman.
Played by Shaleen, Patience was known for zinging one-liners, impeccable comedic timing and, of course, the ability to connect with all audiences.
After snippets from the show started to go viral on TikTok, comment sections began to overflow with shoutouts to Shaleen, with many sharing that she gave us all the best childhoods.
As one user, Em, put it perfectly:
“It’s so fun that you’re getting your flowers, finally. I think SA actors missed out on a lot of the social media hype they deserved at the time. You’re an icon!! Your work brought so much joy.”
All the positive attention inspired Shaleen to get active on social media and share her immense appreciation for all the kindness toward her.
“I’m absolutely blown away, I’m quite emotional about it,” she shared in a video. “Thank you beautiful people, thank you my South Africans, thank you for the love for sharing your thoughts and your experiences. I am just over the flipping moon, I’ve loved it! Thank you!” Shaleen shared.
@shaeleen.tobinsetzkorn Replying to @🫀 reading these comments have made my week. I am walking around with a massive smile on my face. I am still figuring out this Tiktok thing so please bare with me – I am learning 🤣 #southafrica #thecoconuts #southafricatiktok ♬ original sound – Shaeleen (Patience) Tobin-Setz
Now, Shaleen has brought Patience back to life on TikTok, and you can keep up with her here!
Sources: TikTok
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