Television will never be the same again. This coming June 18th, one of the greatest and classic stories of a warrior king so powerful that he was feared by many tribes is coming to DStv.

The story is none other than that of Shaka iLembe, and it is slated to premiere on Mzansi Magic on June 18th at 2000hrs. The journey to retelling this epic and historical story has been eight years in the making. Many are excited that finally, this story is getting revamped and retold by Africans, with an authentic cast. Viewers can expect to see one of the biggest television productions ever. Costumes, intense drama, world class acting, and just everything that a viewer can expect from a production of this magnitude. Already many viewers are anxiously waiting with abated breath to see what this new production is all about. The original Shaka Zulu was released in 1986, and it starred the towering Henry Cele, a figure who many even believed was Shaka in the flesh. Shaka ilembe stars the amazing Nomzano Mbatha, who takes over one of the most powerful roles in the production which is that of Nandi KaBhebhe, Shaka’s mother. Beautiful, and a gem when it comes to storytelling, Mbatha is showing off another side of her talent, and it is this versatile and craft that many are waiting to see as it evolves during the 13 part series. Besides Mbatha, who played Mirembe in the 2021 film, Coming to America 2, the production also stars other equally talented South African powerhouses in the acting industry such as Lemogang Tsipa, who stars in the title role of Shaka, Thembinkosi Mthembu, who played Mabutho in The River, Wiseman Mncube, known from The Wife, Mondli Makhoba, also from The Wife, Sthandiwe Kgoroge and introduces Ntando Zondi. The cast also includes Abdul Khoza, from Isibaya, living legends, Don Mlangeni and Vusi Kunene among many others, certainly cementing SHAKA iLEMBE a powerful ensemble drama.

The Creative team was led by Oscar nominated Director Angus Gibson, Executive Producers Mbatha, Mtaka and Desiree Markgraaff, Professor Hlonipha Mokoena ( Cultural and Historical Advisor). This is said to be one of the biggest productions fully funded by MultiChoice Group as part of their expansive local content slate.

The 12- part series tells the story of the famous Zulu King and the events that shaped his remarkable life. While the series is an entertainment title and a fictional interpretation of historical events, producers, Bomb Productions have taken care to ensure that Nguni culture is authentically portrayed and respected. Fittingly, SHAKA iLEMBE was filmed in 4K, with state- of- the- art visual effects, ensuring the best screen treatment for the sweeping dynastic saga that encompasses the Zulu, Elangeni, Hlubi, Mthethwa and Ndwandwe clans. Nandi was seen as the driving force behind what Shaka eventually became. Fierce and not one to bend over to authority, Nandi bore her son, Shaka following a forbidden