The first episode of ‘Shaka iLembe‘ was a big hit, attracting over 3.6 million enthusiastic DStv viewers.
The premiere episode aired on Sunday, 18th June 2023 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161).
According to DStv, this is the best-ever performance for a MultiChoice drama series in its history. The show also reached number 1 on the DStv App across Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and other African countries.
The 12-part series, set in the 1700s, tells the story of the making of the iconic Zulu king aka King Shaka, from his early childhood through to adulthood. The two key actors playing Shaka are the incredibly talented Lemongang Tsipa (adult king) and newcomer Ntando Zondi (boy king).
The star-studded cast is headlined by Nomzamo Mbatha, who plays Queen Nandi, the revered mother of Shaka, with Thembinkosi Mthembu starring as King Dingiswayo and Wiseman Mncube in the role of King Zwide.
Commenting on the massive response to episode 1, MultiChoice CEO for General Entertainment Nomsa Philiso extended her gratitude to audiences for watching and interacting with a show in droves.
“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. 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.”
The much-talked-about drama series airs every Sunday on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) at 8pm. For those who missed out, Episodes 1 and 2 are now available on DStv Catch-Up and via the DStv app.
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