Keeno-Lee Hector Brings Fire and Heart to Skemergrond

South African favourite Keeno-Lee Hector is back on screens this September, joining kykNET&kie’s hit drama Skemergrond as Ivan “Ice” Matroos — a character who promises grit, vulnerability and plenty of drama.

A character with layers

Ice isn’t just a face from Erica’s (Shimmy Isaacs) past — he’s a storm of contradictions: reckless yet tender, flawed yet forgivable. “He’s like a tough candy with a soft centre,” Keeno shares. “As soon as I think of someone in my own life, I know exactly how Ice moves, talks and reacts.”

Playing Ice meant embracing those contradictions. “He’s not a bad man. He often acts without considering the consequences. Understanding that helps me forgive him,” Keeno reflects.

On set and beyond

His scenes with Shimmy Isaacs often felt like “the Ice and Erica show,” but a supportive cast and crew, along with Keeno’s long-standing relationship with Penguin Films, made the transition seamless. “Working with Shimmy again was a highlight,” he adds. “She’s generous, and our friendship makes exploring those emotions easier.”

Off-screen, Keeno is just as busy. From Faith in the Flames and Take Out to music with his band The Black Ties and his daily radio show Lunch with Keeno-Lee on Smile 90.4FM, his career is as multi-layered as the man he now portrays.

Why this role matters

Joining Skemergrond was more than another job. “If I’m not on set, it feels like an itch I can’t scratch. This role challenged me and reignited my excitement after projects where I wasn’t delighted,” he says.

And as Ice re-enters Erica’s life, viewers can expect emotional confrontations, hidden truths and storylines that cut close to the bone.

“Being part of Skemergrond still feels surreal, but I’m proud to join this incredible team,” Keeno concludes.

Catch Skemergrond Monday to Thursday at 19:30 on kykNET&kie, DStv channel 145.