Mzansi Magic's Shaka iLembe: Cast (with images), full story and plot summary
The long-awaited Mzansi Magic's Shaka iLembe has finally arrived after six years in the making and a year-long promotional campaign. This star-studded series is ready to dominate Sunday night television for the next three months, featuring excellent casting and powerful performances, rich symbolism, and authentic production.
Source: Twitter
The release of the brand-new Shaka iLembe trailer by DStv gave a glimpse into this captivating drama. With love, passion, family, and battle themes, it promises to be a significant milestone in South Africa's TV history. As the biggest and most expensive South African TV show in prime time, Shaka iLembe generated immense anticipation.
Shaka iLembe's plot summary
Set in the 1700s, Shaka Ilembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, Sgidi kaSenzangakhona. He is commonly known as Shaka, with iterations from early childhood to adulthood.
Shaka iLembe's cast
The series boasts a stellar ensemble of South Africa's finest actors, showcasing the talent and skill of renowned performers in the industry, including the following.
Nomzamo Mbatha as Nandi
Source: UGC
- Full name: Nomzamo Nxumalo Mbatha
- Gender: Female
- Famous as: Nomzamo Mbatha
- Date of birth: 13 July 1990
- Place of birth: KwaMashu, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Who is Nomzamo Mbatha? She is a prominent South African luminary who has defied conventional labels. She seamlessly embodies various roles: actress, TV personality, model, accountant, human rights activist, and entrepreneur.
She keeps rising from her captivating debut as Thandeka Ndlovu in Isibaya to her Hollywood breakthrough in Coming 2 America. Notably cast in Saban Films' Assassins, Mbatha leaves an indelible mark on the screen, cementing her place among the industry's elite.
Lemogang Tsipa as Shaka
Source: UGC
- Full name: Lemogang Peter Phetolo Tsipa
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Lemogang Tsipa
- Date of birth: 6 May 1991
- Place of birth: Empangeni, South Africa
Lemogang Tsipa, the celebrated South African actor, boasts a remarkable career defined by comedic genius. His unforgettable role as Dini Masilela in eKasi+ and captivating appearance in Traffic! showcase his versatility.
Tsipa's talent transcends borders, with standout performances in Eye in the Sky and Beyond The River. From Jamillah and Aladdin to Homeland, his diverse portfolio cements his status as an extraordinary talent.
Thembinkosi Mthembu as King Dingiswayo/Godongwana
- Full name: Thembinkosi Brian Mthembu
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Thembinkosi Mthembu
- Date of birth: 17 July 1994
- Place of birth: KwaNdengezi, Durban, South Africa
Thembinkosi Mthembu, the acclaimed South African actor, shines brightest as Junior in the captivating series The Republic. Notable for his roles in acclaimed serials like The River and The Gamechangers, Mthembu's talent resonates deeply. His compelling portrayal in Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu further exemplifies his prowess.
Wiseman Mncube as King Zwide
Source: UGC
- Full name: Wiseman Mncube
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Wiseman Mncube
- Date of birth: 1990
- Place of birth: Ulundi, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
This South African artist has garnered acclaim as an actor, playwright, singer, and director. With accolades like the Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards, Mncube has made a lasting impression. Best known for his compelling roles in television serials like Gold Diggers, eHostela, and Uzalo, he has also made notable appearances in films such as Rage of a Lioness.
Senzo Radebe as Senzangakhona
Source: UGC
- Full name: Senzokuhle Radebe
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Senzo Radebe
- Date of birth: 29 May 1993
- Place of birth: Alexandra, Gauteng, South Africa
The South African actor has left an indelible mark on the industry. Notable for his supporting roles as Sthembiso "Sthe" Gumede in Muvhango, Abednego in Isono, and Zibuko in Gomora, Radebe's talent knows no bounds. He has also graced the screen with a lead role in SABC1's Ingozi, further showcasing his range and skill.
Dawn Thandeka King as Princess Mkabayi
- Full name: Dawn Thandeka King
- Gender: Female
- Famous as: Dawn Thandeka King
- Date of birth: 1 October 1977
- Place of birth: Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Dawn Thandeka King, the prolific South African artist, has garnered numerous accolades as an actress, musician, motivational speaker, and social media influencer.
Abdul Khoza as Cija
Source: UGC
- Full name: Abdul Khoza
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Abdul Khoza
- Date of birth: 14 August 1987
- Place of birth: KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
The South African actor emerged as the winner of Class Act's second season. Khoza gained widespread recognition for his role as Qaphela in the enduring soap opera Isibaya, securing his first SAFTA award.
What movies has Abdul Khoza been in?
Notable appearances include The Road, Ring of Lies, and Nqobile. His acclaimed portrayal of Nqoba in The Wife earned him his second SAFTA triumph.
S'Thandiwe Kgoroge as Queen Mthaniya
- Full name: Sithandiwe Kgoroge
- Gender: Female
- Famous as: S'Thandiwe Kgoroge
- Date of birth: 4 February 1972
- Place of birth: South Africa
Recognised as the wife of actor Tony Kgoroge, Sthandiwe Kgoroge has appeared in notable shows like Generations and multiple seasons of MTV Shuga. Sthandiwe's acclaimed performances include Umkhokha, Impilo: The Scam, and The Road. The film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom also shows her memorable presence.
Hope Mbhele as Baleka
Source: UGC
- Full name: Hope Mbhele
- Gender: Female
- Famous as: Hope Mbhele
- Date of birth: 5 April 1996
- Place of birth: Umthwalume, Portshepstone, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
Known for her role as Mabusi in the Mzansi Magic drama series Umkhokha, Mbhele has garnered affection from audiences. She has also showcased her talent in Showmax films like No Love Lost and Goodbye Gogo.
Mondli Makhoba as Ngomane
- Full name: Mondli Makhoba
- Gender: Male
- Famous as: Mondli Makhoba
- Date of birth: 15 May 1978
- Place of birth: Umlazi, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
Recognisable for his roles in The Wife, Umkhokha, and Isithembiso, Mondli Makhoba is a South African actor who has captivated audiences on global stages. His talent has landed him appearances in local and international productions like The Legacy, uZalo, and Grey Matter. Mondli has also showcased his acting prowess in films, including Paper Planes and iZulu.
The list continues with other notable stars, namely:
- Ntando Zondi as Young Shaka
- Sibonile Ngubane as Mudli
- Khabonina Qubeka as Ntombazi
- Calvin Ratladi as Goloza
- Phumlani Mndebele as Nyengelezi
- Ziya Xulu as Piklile
- Ernest Ndlovu as Jama
- Austin Shandu as Ngqondo
- Nompilo Maphumulo as Iqhikiza
- Sfundo Maphumulo as Mahole
- Gabriel Miya as Zikode
- Terrence Ndumiso Maphumulo as Luhleko
- Buhle Tsepo Doncube as Mandulo / Soshangane
- Wanda Zuma as Mawewe
- Hamilton Dlamini as Jobe
- Ayanda Borotho as Mfunda
- Don Mlangeni as Langa
- Siyabonga Melongisi Shibe as Mgabhi
- Magic Hlatshwayo as Mbhengi
- Richard Lukunku as Domingo
- Thembikile Komani as Qinisani
- Linda Nxumalo as Dlabehlezi
- Mthokozisi Reginald Gabela as Nkanizababili
- Kennedy Stab as Gwedla
- Ntando Zuma as Nkankane
- Ntando Menzi Ncube as Ndabezimbi
- Bheki Vilakazi as Sanusi Mhlolo
- Carla Fonseca as Carlotte
- Laquino Fonseca as Aloisio
- Ncibijani Madlala as Mbhobho
- Sphamandla Dhludhu as Tana
- Lucia Mthiyane as Thiyabezile
Source: UGC
Who is King Shaka on iLembe?
Two key actors portray the character of King Shaka. The adult version of King Shaka is played by Lemogang Tsipa, and Ntando Zondi, a newcomer to the acting scene, portrays the younger version.
Who produced Shaka iLembe?
Shaka iLembe was produced by Nomzamo Mbatha, the executive producer and lead actress. The production team also included Oscar-nominated director Angus Gibson, Nhlanhla Mtaka, Desireé Markgraaff, and Professor Hlonipha Mokoena. Bomb Productions, known for creating shows like Isibaya, The Road, Isithembiso, and House of Zwide for MultiChoice, created the series.
How many episodes of Shaka iLembe are there?
Shaka iLembe's full episodes comprise a 12-part series in its first season. Additionally, there is anticipation for a second season once the first season is completed.
Where can I watch Shaka iLembe?
The series is available on Mzansi Magic every Sunday at 20:00. It debuted on Sunday, 18 June 2023, on Mzansi Magic at 8 p.m. The first episode was available on Mzansi Wethu channel 163 on Wednesday, 21 June, at 21:30, allowing DStv Access subscribers to sample the series. You can also watch the drama series online through the DStv mobile app or via the web.
With its highly anticipated production, captivating trailer, and impressive debut episode, Mzansi Magic's Shaka iLembe has generated considerable buzz. Make sure to catch every thrilling moment of this authentic portrayal of Zulu culture on Mzansi Magic, as it has the potential to become the standout local hit of 2023.
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