Outlaws S2: Meet the New Sihle, Noluthando Ngema
After being crowned Best Telenovela at the 2024 SAFTAs, Outlaws returns to Showmax for a thrilling new season on 17 November 2025 — and this time, the Biyela clan welcomes a new face to the family. Rising star Noluthando Ngema steps into the shoes of Sihle Biyela, a role previously portrayed by Nirvana Nokwe, in the epic drama from Tshedza Pictures, the powerhouse behind Adulting, Youngins, and The River.
The gripping series follows the long-standing feud between two powerful families: the Zulu cattle-farming Biyelas and the Basotho cattle-raiding Ts’eoles. At the heart of the conflict is a love story that defies family loyalty — and Ngema’s character is right in the middle of it.
“I was so shocked – out of excitement, obviously. My sisters were there too, and I remember screaming at the top of my lungs. It was hard to contain my emotions.”
Noluthando recalls about landing the role
Ngema’s casting journey began with a self-tape that caught the producers’ attention. After weeks of anticipation, she received the call that changed everything.
“They said they loved my audition tape and invited me for a chemistry test. The rest is history,”.
she shares
To prepare for the role, Noluthando worked closely with actress and director Ferry Jele, attending informal acting sessions that helped her embody Sihle’s layered personality.
“I also did character studies, read books, and observed people to help me bring Sihle to life,”.
she adds
Ngema stars alongside SAFTA winner Thembinkosi Mthembu, who plays her older brother, Bandile.
“It was such an incredible learning experience. He’s truly a big brother on and off screen.”
she says
The new season also introduces Thandolwethu Zondi (Shaka Ilembe) as Thunzi Biyela and Mamodibe Ramodibe (Black Tax) as Buang.
Speaking on her on-screen chemistry with co-star Lehlohonolo Mayeza, who portrays Leruo Tseole, Noluthando describes their characters’ love as a modern-day tragedy:
“I think of them as Romeo and Juliet. Their relationship was so passionate but had so much tragedy. We spent most days discussing our perception of love and how to bring authenticity to their connection.”
When asked about her most challenging scenes, Noluthando laughs about her horseback adventures.
“I fell off a horse twice! It was my first time galloping, and I didn’t expect how fast it would go,”.
she jokes
But she also reflects on the emotional weight of her final scene, calling it “bittersweet” as it marked both Sihle’s and her own farewell.
As she gears up for her television debut, Noluthando’s excitement is contagious.
“This is my first-ever TV break, and I can’t wait to see myself on screen. The new season absolutely blew my mind, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it too.”
Outlaws Season 2 premieres on Showmax from 17 November 2025 and Mzansi Magic on 22 November 2025, with two new episodes released each week.
