By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South African telenovela Shaka iLembe has made history, winning a record-breaking 12 Saftas this past weekend— the most awarded drama series in the event’s history.
One of Shaka Ilembe’s biggest wins, was for Best Actor for Thembinkosi Mthembu as King Dingiswayo.
Mthembu was nominated in four categories and ended up taking home the coveted Best Actor award.
He tells Showmax that cracking not just one, but four SAFTA nominations meant a lot to him.
“I’m truly happy. When you love your work, you keep pushing every year. Even when I wasn’t getting nominated, I kept telling myself that I needed to work hard not just for the awards, but to keep improving in my job.”
Mthembu says being recognized by the NFVF for the SAFTAs is a big deal for him. He’s grateful that they see him and acknowledge the work he puts in.
“The time, the love and passion I poured into this character of Dingiswayo. I feel blessed. I’m grateful.”
The award-winning actor also thanks everyone he’s worked with and to those close to him for their support, from the executives to my family, including my mom and my wife.
“I also thank myself for pushing through,” adds the actor.
When asked why the series has done so well, he says that it’s a story that truly speaks to our roots and honours the heroes who came before us, those who paved the way for us.
“We’re here because of them, especially the Zulu nation. Thank you to Bab’ Zulu, Oyi-Nkosi Siyakhothama, for blessing this show, and also to our King Misuzulu for his support and for allowing it to continue.
It means a lot to 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,” said Mthembu.