By Mana Faye
The BET+ original film A Wesley South African Christmas premiered on November 21, 2024, on BET+. Before its release, I spoke with cast members Dorien Wilson, Jasmine Guy, and Terrence “TC” Carson, along with Executive Producers Chuck and Bree West and writer Chazitear, about their experiences, creative process, and the rich stories behind the film.
A New Chapter for the Wesley Family
The third installment in the Wesley Family film universe, A Wesley South African Christmas follows the Wesley family to Durban, South Africa, during the Christmas holiday. Returning stars include Dorien Wilson (The Parkers, Moesha, In the Cut) as Bryan Wesley, Jasmine Guy (A Different World, The Vampire Diaries) as Sylvia Wesley, and Terrence “TC” Carson (Living Single, Livin’ Large, God of War) as Marcus Elkins. The cast is joined by South African actors Bheki Mkhwane, Ayanda Bandla-Ngubane, and Trevor Gumbi, further enriching the film with local talent.
Exploring Characters and Representation
When discussing his role as the Wesley family patriarch, Dorien Wilson expressed pride in representing a long-lasting marriage: “We’ve been married for 35 years. For America to see that kind of Black love—that’s not represented—and that we still have compassion and love for each other, it’s so important.”
Jasmine Guy appreciated the film’s parallels between the Wesley family and their South African hosts: “The family of the South African storyline is organically tied into ours they were like the Cosbys of South Africa, she said with a laugh, highly successful, beautiful children, educated, well-to-do, but very politically aware.”
Filming in South Africa
The South African setting left a lasting impression on the cast. Terrence “TC” Carson reflected on the experience: “They love [black community] us, and they want us to come back home.” Jasmine Guy highlighted the depth of the cultural exchange: “The political atmosphere—you don’t see that in the brochure.”
The cultural immersion extended to unforgettable experiences. The cast recalled attending a South African braai (barbecue), visiting Zululand to meet the King and Queen of the Zulu nation, and forging connections with local talent. Carson shared a special memory of working alongside a young South African actor whose character shared a poignant storyline.
Insights from the Wests
The film’s Executive Producers, Chuck and Bree West, along with writer Chazitear, revealed the thought process behind bringing A Wesley South African Christmas to life. Having worked on several romantic comedies, the Wests decided a holiday film could balance romance with family themes. “We thought a Christmas movie was a good middle ground because you could still have a rom-com with a Christmas bow wrapped on it,” Chuck shared.
Bree, drawing on their personal experiences, said, “I decided I wanted to write—who could tell a better story?” The Wests, who describe their blended family as a “modern-day Brady Bunch” with eight kids, infused their insights into the narrative. “When our family gets together, it’s crazy,” they laughed.
Their dedication extended behind the scenes as well. “We hired over 400 South African employees,” they revealed, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the local community and fostering an authentic production.
Why You Should Watch
The BET+ original film A Wesley South African Christmas is more than just a feel-good holiday movie. It’s a celebration of Black love, family, and culture, set against the vibrant backdrop of South Africa.
“Hallmark is a Christmas movie town, and you didn’t see us—that’s why this movie is important. You see us here, on the continent, having the same experience,” added Dorien Wilson.
Streaming now on BET+, A Wesley South African Christmas is a story the whole family can enjoy—together.
Chatting with the Cast and Creators of A Wesley South African Christmas
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