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The Citizen
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Celebrate 15 years of Mzansi Magic
Honouring the stories that raised Mzansi On 12 July 2010, a bold new voice emerged on South African television – one that spoke our language, reflected our lives and told Mzansi-born and bred stories in a refreshing way. That voice was Mzansi Magic. What began as a modest programming block of local series and international films has grown into a powerhouse producer and showcase of homegrown content. Over the years, Mzansi Magic has delivered award-winning shows and films, created unprecedented opportunities for local talent and played a pivotal role in shaping the South African production industry. At its inception, the channel set out to 'engage producers and explore possibilities beyond traditional commissioning models'. That vision has been realised – and gone beyond what MultiChoice expected at its inception. Mzansi Magic's stories, stars and shows have influenced language, fashion and culture, while setting new benchmarks for local storytelling. From the beloved Lokshin Bioskop films to genre-defining dramas and reality shows, the channel has become a cultural cornerstone for Southern Africa. Mzansi Magic has brought us unforgettable moments: the gripping drama of iNkaba (2012), the iconic Isibaya (2013), the boundary-pushing Rockville (2013), the reality sensation Date My Family (2017) and the groundbreaking Lockdown (2017). These titles didn't just entertain – they sparked conversations, launched careers and redefined what local television could be. The channel has also nurtured new talent through initiatives like the MultiChoice Talent Factory, where graduates have gone on to contribute to some of Mzansi Magic's most beloved productions. 'For 15 years, Mzansi Magic has stood at the heart of South African entertainment — a platform where authenticity meets ambition, and where themes of family, resilience and identity are brought to life through bold storytelling and unforgettable characters,' says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment. 'What sets Mzansi Magic apart is not just the stories we tell, but the scale at which we tell them and the diversity they celebrate.' As part of the celebration, viewers can look forward to a curated showcase of iconic moments, unforgettable characters and fan-favourite genres – a journey through the stories that shaped a generation. A special commemorative documentary will also spotlight the channel's legacy, the talent it has nurtured and the cultural impact it continues to make. This celebration comes to life through the Mzansi Magic Pop-Up Channel – a special, limited-time experience on DStv Channel 196 – created to honour 15 years of storytelling excellence and the audiences who made it all possible. 'Mzansi Magic has always been about stories that reflect who we are… real, raw and proudly South African,' says Shirley Adonisi, Channel Director for Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net. 'This celebration is our way of saying 'Siyabonga Mzansi' for 15 unforgettable years. Our channel was raised by the audience and we're grateful for their commitment.' And the journey continues… With fresh content like the upcoming original crime drama Levels, starring Lunathi Mampofu and Bonko Khoza, premiering on 7 September, Mzansi Magic is just getting started. So whether you've been there since the very first 'Yoh!' or joined along the way – this is your moment to relive the magic, remember the icons and look forward to the next chapter. NOW READ: How the last episode of 'Shaka iLembe' made Nomzamo Mbatha feel like a 'new person'
The South African
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Mzansi Magic marks 15 years with pop-up channel on DSTV
Mzansi Magic, South Africa's storytelling powerhouse, is turning 15, and they're inviting fans to relive the magic with a special celebration. A brand-new Pop-Up Channel on DStv (channel 196) will spotlight legendary shows and unforgettable characters that defined Mzansi's TV history. A CHANNEL DEEPLY ROOTED IN LOCAL STORYTELLING This nostalgic trip down memory lane promises iconic throwbacks, epic drama, and heartfelt moments that have resonated with millions nationwide. For those who remember their first 'Yoh!', this is your chance to reconnect with the moments that shaped local pop culture. Mzansi Magic is honouring the past and reminding us how proudly South African stories are worth celebrating every day. From the start, Mzansi Magic focused on content that boldly authentically reflected our lives, language, and cultural complexities. 'Mzansi Magic has always been about stories that reflect who we are… real, raw and proudly South African,' says Shirley Adonisi, Channel Director for Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net. 'This pop-up channel is our way of saying 'Siyabonga Mzansi' for 15 unforgettable years. Our channel was raised by the audience, we are grateful for their commitment, and we want to celebrate with them. We're throwing it back, remembering the icons and moments that shaped us, yet still looking forward to the next chapter.' The channel will showcase themed days celebrating boss queens, iconic rivalries, heartfelt drama, and unforgettable moments of pure entertainment. This exciting tribute isn't just about nostalgia; it powerfully honours local television's remarkable journey. 'For 15 years, Mzansi Magic has stood at the heart of South African entertainment — a platform where authenticity meets ambition, and where themes of family, resilience, and identity are brought to life through bold storytelling and unforgettable characters,' says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment. 'What sets Mzansi Magic apart is not just the stories we tell, but the scale and diversity with which we tell them. From intimate, niche productions that quietly become cult favourites, to large-scale, high-impact narratives that capture the national imagination — our storytelling continues to evolve and resonate.' The Mzansi Magic Pop-Up Channel launches Saturday, 12 July on DStv, celebrating 15 years of iconic, proudly South African television. Viewers can look forward to shows like iNkaba (2012), Isibaya (2013), Rockville (2013), Date My Family (2017), and Lockdown (2017). Themed viewing days will revisit the key moments and storylines that defined Mzansi Magic's unforgettable legacy. These special broadcasts will celebrate characters and shows that helped make Mzansi Magic a true powerhouse in local entertainment. WHICH SHOWS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED TO WATCH FIRST? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Enhle Mbali: ‘I needed cleansing through prayer every time I got home'
Enhle played the mysterious and unpredictable Ayanda on The Herd. Enhle Mbali with fellow actress, Siyasanga Papu on the set of The Herd. Picture: Instagram/@enhlembali_ Actress and fashion designer Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa recently opened up about her role in the second season of The Herd. She played Ayanda, a mysterious, unpredictable and dangerous woman who would stop at nothing to get what she wanted. ALSO READ: 'I'm proud of how I handled my marriage' – Enhle Mbali on life with Black Coffee Enhle on playing Ayanda Taking to Instagram on Thursday, Enhle said portraying Ayanda tested her deeply as an actress. 'I was tested spiritually, mentally and physically. My character was just dark, yena nje. And I needed cleansing through prayer every time I got home to separate me from her,' she wrote. She recalled a particularly intense scene involving a ritual initiation, saying the atmosphere on set left her feeling deeply unsettled. 'The scene was my character being initiated into the dark world… On this day, the set designers had done a great job — too good of a job. Red candles were lit, and sage was burning. With every single take, my spirit felt a heaviness. It just didn't feel okay in that environment. 'I've never felt so uncomfortable, but as a thespian, I had to deliver. So I did. Through every line and action, I prayed so hard — at times even forgetting my lines. But thank God I've been in the industry for this long and understand that if you relax, everything comes to you,' she added. Enhle has portrayed diverse characters over the years, including Liza Sterling in Happy Family, Azania in Broken Vows, and Precious Ledwaba in Tshisa. She has also been featured in popular shows such as Isibaya, Rockville, The Queenstown Kings, Blood Psalms, Soul City, iNkaba, and 4Play: Sex Tips for Girls. NOW READ: Dan Corder on his history-making TV deal and building trust with his audience
News24
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
SHE'S BACK! Actress Asavela Mqokiyana returns to our screens as Sizakele on Uzalo
We were first introduced to her on Isibaya where she played a character that quickly became a fan favourite. She later joined the cast of Abomama further cementing herself as a rare gem in the entertainment industry. She however took a break from acting after becoming a mother. Her personal life made tabloids dry when she was away from the limelight, but she is back in the entertainment industry. Actress Asavela Mqokiyana has taken a giant leap in her acting career, as she now stars in the country's top soapie, Uzalo. She is upbeat about being back to doing what she loves the most, telling Drum that she is excited about securing the Uzalo gig, which has changed her life. The dry spell in her career is finally over and she's ready to take over the industry again. 'I'm thrilled to join the team of South Africa's biggest show! Being part of this iconic production is a testament to my hard work. Although I was initially nervous about returning to screen, the production team's warmth and support have made the transition seamless. The crew is fantastic, and I'm grateful for this opportunity to shine. I'm looking forward to making a meaningful contribution and exceeding expectations,' she says. While some of her industry peers grapple with various challenges in the cutthroat industry, she has been fortunate not to encounter any major setbacks. 'I've been fortunate to navigate the industry smoothly by focusing on the craft and delivering quality work. By staying task-oriented, I've managed to sidestep potential challenges and enjoy a fulfilling career,' she explains. As an actress, playing different roles is something she enjoys and now playing Sizakele whom she describes has intelligent and soft. 'I'm loving playing Sizakele - her independence and intelligence really shine through. She's a liberated character with a softer side, and I'm excited for you to see her in action. Tune in to find out more about this fascinating character,' the 28-year-old mother of one says. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asavela Mqokiyana (@asavela__m) Although her marital woes grabbed headlines when she got divorced from her husband with whom she has one child, she remains tight-lipped about whether she would ever walk down the aisle again, indicating that she doesn't wish to delve into that matter. Read more | Babes Wodumo reflects on musical comeback and Mampintsha - 'I miss his jokes' She however maintains that she loves being an actress and the ability to bring various characters to life. 'As an actress, I love bringing characters to life. Seeing my work air on TV is a reminder of the impact we thespians have on audiences. It's a thrill to be part of storytelling that resonates with viewers,' AFDA graduate says.
News24
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
From Kings of Joburg to what's next: Abdul Khoza reveals upcoming ventures
Abdul Khoza stars as Lester in the upcoming third season of Kings of Joburg. He is looking to do more behind-the-scenes work with producing, writing and directing. Abdul reaffirms that his passion will always lie with the arts. ________________________________________________________________________ We've still got a whole lot more to see from this captivating thespian. Abdul Khoza stole the country's hearts with his memorable performances in hit shows like Isibaya and The Wife. Now we can look forward to another deep and complex act in the upcoming third season of Kings of Joburg. Starring alongside acting greats like Connie Ferguson and Zolisa Xaluva, Abdul gives us a teaser into his role as the criminal Lester. 'It happens to be a time where my character is more or less trying to get himself back on top because he is at the bottom you find him in season three because you find him in prison. This is where he also meets up with Mo's character (played by Zolisa Xaluva) and both of them have formed an alliance together to get themselves out of the prison,' Abdul says. 'It's very complex, I won't lie. It's a complex and complicated story right now. But a beautiful, beautiful journey between the two characters of Mo's character and Lester's character. We get a bit of more of a brotherhood that happens between them, which is interesting. Something that I think could also enhances their relationship.' Many are still crossing their fingers to see Abdul's star power continue to shine, especially with the 37-year-old creative and father of two announcing his departure from acting to pursue his love for behind-the-scenes work, sharing some insightful words reflecting on the entertainment industry and his last audition take. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brotha Abdul Rahman Khoza (@abdul_khoza) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brotha Abdul Rahman Khoza (@abdul_khoza) Although Abdul tells us that he's still getting all his ducks in row before sharing his reasons for leaving acting, his creative prowess expands more than just in front of the camera. He counts himself as a writer as well who is looking to produce and direct his own work. He shares, 'I want to produce, I want to direct some of my things as well because I'm also a writer myself. So, I'm trying to elevate myself as an individual. Trying to just walk on another path that promises a lot of growth and that's just my journey right now.' Abdul goes on to say, 'I'm always passionate in everything I do, so I do believe that there will be success in this journey as well and I'm just throwing myself in there because I feel like we need more Black producers and more Black directors and so forth in the industry ... I don't want to try to do this when I'm too old. Yeah, I don't wanna be the old director or old producer,' he laughs. 'So I wanna still do it while I know that I'm also able to be relevant to the youth. So, that's also a market that I feel like - if we don't enhance our stories or make them more impactful for them, we might lose them as an audience.' Off the cuff What's an acting tip that you always stand by? It's really just presence, being present 100 percent. Always has been the key of any actor to take, of just making sure that you live in the moment as honestly as you can. What's your favourite way to unwind by yourself? It's usually when I choose to sort of get myself in a workout. A good workout always does it for me and then after is more or less just listening to music or making music. What do you love to do with your family with Father's Day coming up? If I have my kids with me, I am the happiest father ever because they are everything. So, definitely spending the day with my kids and just having those cuddles. Abdul's career journey has taken more detours than many realise, with the actor starting off his working career in the army and the fire brigade before pursuing his dream working in the arts. On how he plans to grow and evolve in his new ventures with all of his experience, Abdul says, 'Well, my passion really would be the arts because I put myself in the space of acting but not only did I focus on acting solely, I was just able to also be a little bit behind the scenes, see what directors do on set, see how things are brought together for a production to function and all of that. 'So I've learned a lot from my experience as an actor because I've had the privilege of being able to also have personal conversations with directors and with producers that I've worked with. I've had a lot of knowledge and information that I myself would've never had if I never stepped on a set before.' He is currently busy working on his theatre debut, starring in the critically acclaimed production The Zulu by Mbongeni Ngema from 8 to 22 June 2025 at the Joburg Theatre. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joburg Theatre (@joburgtheatre)
