Thembinkosi Mthembu Returns to Adulting Season 3
After winning the SAFTA for Best Actor and being crowned Hunk of the Year at the Feather Awards, Thembinkosi Mthembu is back in Adulting Season 3 as Bonga Tembe. Once the most eligible bachelor among his friends, Bonga is now a married man eager to start a family with his wife, Nkanyezi (Londeka Sishi). But their newlywed bliss quickly fades as they realise their family values are not as aligned as they once believed.
While Bonga is ready for fatherhood, Nkanyezi prioritises her career, leading to a growing divide. Their miscommunication raises a crucial question: Was Bonga ever truly ready for marriage?
Bonga’s Struggles: Marriage, Infidelity & Toxic Masculinity
Throughout Adulting, Bonga has grappled with his unresolved issues around fatherhood, largely shaped by his absent father. His desire to prove himself as a great husband and father pushes him to rush into marriage, believing it will change his infidelity tendencies. But when Nkanyezi’s ambitions clash with his timeline, he finds himself slipping back into old habits.
“Marriage was supposed to be Bonga’s way of breaking away from his father’s toxic legacy. But because he and Nkanyezi never had a clear conversation about their expectations, they’re now two bitter adults heading towards disaster.”
Thembinkosi explains
Bonga’s journey also reflects broader societal pressures on men.
“There’s immense pressure on men, especially in KZN, to prove their worth. Many feel like failures if they aren’t successful or attracting women. But we need to return to the basics – like our fathers who worked simple jobs and provided without external pressures.”
Thembinkosi shares
Real-Life Influence: How Marriage Shaped His Performance
Thembinkosi’s personal experiences in marriage played a key role in shaping his portrayal of Bonga.
“Communication and balance are crucial in a relationship. My wife was a huge help during filming—she helped me with lines and even gave me insight into how Nkanyezi might feel in certain moments.”
he says
His advice for couples?
“Take things one step at a time. And if a woman no longer loves you, let her go—no abuse, no toxicity. Women, too, should avoid staying in relationships for material benefits. If you’re unhappy, leave.”
Bonga vs. Vuyani: A Complicated Friendship
Beyond his marriage, Bonga’s dynamic with Vuyani (Luthando BU Mthembu) remains tense.
“Bonga sees potential in Vuyani but is frustrated by his dependence on his sugar mommy. He wants Vuyani to step up, be independent, and take control of his life.”
Despite their rivalry, Bonga confides in Mpho (Nhlanhla Kunene), whom he admires for his commitment to fatherhood.
“Mpho represents what Bonga aspires to be—a present father, even after divorce,”.
Thembinkosi explains
The Final Season of Adulting
As Adulting comes to an end, Thembinkosi reflects on the journey.
“It’s bittersweet, but we’re ending it with a bang. Ingoma siyi vala kusasmnandi—we’re leaving while it’s still hot.”
Catch Adulting Season 3 now streaming on Showmax, with new episodes every Saturday until 19 April 2025.
