The epic drama aired this month after six years in the making.
Shaka iLembe tells the story of the legendary African king Shaka kaSenzangakhona, who is portrayed by Lemogang Tsipa (Beyond The River, The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind). The drama also features Nomzamo Mbatha (Isibaya), Thembinkosi Mthembu (The River, Adultng), Abdul Khoza (The Wife, Ring of Lies), Mondli Makhoba (The Wife, Isithembiso), Dawn Thandeka King (Lockdown, DiepCity), and many more.
Created by Bomb Productions, Shaka iLembe is the biggest ever single investment that MultiChoice has made into a local production. Over 3.6-million viewers tuned in in South Africa during the first week, which is the most of any new drama in MultiChoice’s history. The show was also the most popular show on the DStv app in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and many more African countries.
“In Shaka iLembe, our vision was to tell an epic African story, on a grand scale, and with the depth and finesse that can only come from a substantial investment,” says - MultiChoice CEO for General Entertainment, Nomsa Philiso. “That audiences have bought into this storytelling universe is deeply affirming because it aligns to our understanding of the market appetite for this type of content.”
Speaking to News24, Nomsa Philiso also mentions the show’s global potential: “We are confident that this series will travel. It speaks, not only the heritage of the Zulu Nation, but to the fascination that the world has always had with King Shaka. It speaks to Africans owning the stories that their ancestors lived. And it celebrates that, long before colonialism, beyond the pages of history, there was a majestic ancient era of African Kings and Queens, warriors, healers, and leaders who lived, loved, ruled, battled, and above all, entrenched a legacy and culture that endures even today. Further, the series was filmed in isiZulu so it carries a distinct language identity, but it will be sub-titled in multiple languages so audiences from across the globe can enjoy it.”
This is what some of the country’s top media outlets had to say about the first episode:
“Talk about goosebumps. That’s what I felt when I watched the first episode of Mzansi Magic’s hugely-anticipated historical drama, Shaka iLembe.” – IOL
“As a TV vehicle, Shaka iLembe on Mzansi Magic embodies all of the hallmarks of prestige television – combining meticulous attention to detail in this expansive world-building exercise with earnest and immersive method acting, beautiful cinematography devouring the flowing scenery, and the incorporation of a play of shadows and action, pacey script and judicious editing.” – News24
“And let us not forget the cast! Oh, what an impeccable ensemble! Each member seamlessly embodies their role, ensuring the utmost verisimilitude within the realm of action. There is never a moment of disbelief or the sense that we are merely witnessing a work of fiction. Rather, the world of this story feels undeniably real, a testament to the harmonious synergy of every constituent part, each playing their role with utmost finesse.” – Culture Review Magazine
“Shaka iLembe is a testament to the growing prowess of South African filmmaking. This ambitious production showcases the country’s ability to deliver high-quality content that can rival international standards. From its grand scale to its rich storytelling, this series aims to captivate audiences both locally and globally.” – YoMzansi
Here are some of our favourites tweets from viewers after watching the first episode:
The first two episodes of Shaka iLembe are available on our official webpage.
