Thembinkosi Mthembu Triumphs at SAFTAs with Best Actor Win for Shaka iLembe, Celebrating Cultural Legacy and Breaking Records
Thembinkosi Mthembu has made history with his recent Best Actor win at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) for his role as King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe. The Showmax epic dominated the awards ceremony, earning 12 Golden Horns and setting a record as the most awarded drama series in SAFTAs history. Mthembu’s victory as Best Actor marks a monumental achievement, highlighting his versatility and emotional depth in bringing the complex character of Dingiswayo to life.
This win is even more impressive considering Mthembu’s stiff competition, including his own performance as Bonga in Adulting and his co-star Nhlanhla Kunene as Tsiki Tsiki in the same Showmax Original bromance. Beyond these two nominations, Mthembu was also nominated for Best Actor in a Telenovela as Bandile Biyela in Outlaws, which tied for second place overall at the SAFTAs with eight awards, including Best Telenovela. While he lost that category to Presley Chweneyagae for his role as Cobrizi in The River, Mthembu’s total of four SAFTA nominations was the highest of any actor this year, underscoring a career-defining year for the star.
Reflecting on his victory, Mthembu shared the profound connection he felt with the role of Dingiswayo.
“I love that character. He took me and put me in a place I never thought I’d reach as a performer. It was my first time reaching that level of connection with a character. He pushed me to break through my limits.”
he remarked
The recognition is particularly meaningful to Mthembu, who had never been nominated for a SAFTA before but has worked tirelessly to improve with each role.
“When you love your work, you keep pushing every year. Even when I wasn’t getting nominated, I kept telling myself to work hard—not just for the awards, but to keep improving in my job.”
Acknowledging the significance of the SAFTAs, Mthembu expressed gratitude for the recognition by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF).
“Being recognized for the SAFTAs is a big deal for me. I’m grateful that they see me and acknowledge the work I put in: the time, the love, and passion I poured into this character of Dingiswayo. I feel blessed.”
He thanked those who supported him, including his family, colleagues, and the Shaka iLembe team, such as stuntman Kabelo Chalatsane Mokoena and co-star Mondli Makhoba. He also took a moment to congratulate himself, appreciating his resilience and dedication.
Beyond the SAFTAs, Shaka iLembe achieved unprecedented success, becoming the most-watched series premiere on Mzansi Magic with over four million views and gaining traction as South Africa’s most Googled TV show last year.
“It’s a story that truly speaks to our roots and honours the heroes who came before us. Our kids will grow up watching this show again and again. When they want to learn about the history of Shaka Zulu, they’ll turn to this show.”
Mthembu believes the show’s success stems from its authenticity and cultural significance, noting,
As South Africa’s film and television industry continues to grow, Shaka iLembe and Outlaws showcase the talent and dedication of local actors and creators.
“It means a lot. Speaking on behalf of all the other actors, we prepare extensively and sometimes work under pressure. So, for the NFVF and the SAFTAs to acknowledge and celebrate us means a great deal,”.
Mthembu said
With Showmax content sweeping 37 Golden Horns from its 142 nominations, the streaming platform has firmly established itself as a leader in South African entertainment. Fans can stream Shaka iLembe, Outlaws, Adulting, and The River on Showmax, with new seasons of Adulting, Outlaws, and Shaka iLembe on the horizon.
