In a grand display of creative prowess, MultiChoice Group, Africa’s leading content producer, has announced the launch of its most ambitious primetime series to date, ‘Shaka Ilembe’. This spectacular 12-part saga reveals the genesis of the legendary African king and strategist Shaka Zulu, promising to captivate viewers across the globe.

It was brought to life by the esteemed South African Emmy and Oscar-nominated team at Bomb Productions, the series stars renowned international actress Nomzamo Mbatha, who takes on the challenge of not only leading the cast but also helming the production as Executive Producer.

Shaka Ilembe, six years in creation, is poised to elevate African storytelling. The series is already garnering substantial international interest, with the launch scheduled this June on MultiChoice’s DStv service. This monumental project comes in the wake of other original production exports from MultiChoice Studios, such as the Emmy-nominated ‘Reyka’ and the gripping ‘Trackers’, scripted by Deon Meyer.

The plot delves into a crucial period in African history, the 1700s, offering global audiences an immersive journey into the ancient era of African monarchs and warriors. According to Nomsa Philiso, CEO of MultiChoice General Entertainment, the narrative transcends borders and cultures. “Shaka Ilembe speaks to Africans owning the stories that their ancestors lived. It also celebrates African Kings and Queens, warriors, healers, and leaders who lived, loved, ruled, battled, and above all, entrenched a legacy and culture that endures even today,” she elaborates.

In the series, Nomzamo Mbatha, celebrated for her role in ‘Coming 2 America’, brings to life Queen Nandi, King Shaka’s beloved mother. “From the fierce battlefield choreography and the meticulous accuracy of the wardrobe to the resonance of the script, it’s remarkable,” she comments. “This series transcends entertainment, delivering representation, diversity, and progress.”

The star-studded ensemble cast of Shaka Ilembe boasts top South African talent, including Lemogang Tsipa, Senzo Radebe, Wiseman Mncube, Thembinkosi Mthembu, and Mondli Makhoba, along with powerhouse actresses Khabonina Qubeka, Sthandiwe Kgoroge, Dawn Thandeka King, and rising star Hope Mbhele. Playing young Shaka is the gifted newcomer Ntando Zondi, discovered during the series production.

Shaka Ilembe was filmed against the backdrop of South Africa’s breathtaking scenery, including the mountains, savanna, and coastline of KwaZulu Natal, and in key locations such as Eshowe, Nkandla Forest, Port Edward, Drakensburg, Mooi River, and Zulu Falls.

Parts of the series were also filmed near the UNESCO World Heritage Site “The Cradle of Humankind”, where the production team had the honour of hosting His Excellency Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the King of the Zulu Nation. He witnessed the meticulous detail and care invested in recreating an authentic historical setting.

Mauro Black, MultiChoice Studios Content, Sales, and Distributions Director, attests to the series’ global appeal. “Shaka Ilembe was crafted to weld an immense depth of oral, written and illustrated Zulu history into the framework of a highly watchable primetime drama. This makes it a deeply meaningful but profoundly enjoyable title that should win fans across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.”

The series, which involved over 8000 skilled individuals in its creation, has already won the support of five of South Africa’s most prominent brands (Telkom, LottoStar, Grant’s Whisky, Toyota SA, and Santam), who all signed on as commercial partners. Under the supervision of Academy Award and BAFTA-nominated Creative Director Angus Gibson and Sundance-winning Executive Producer Desiree Markgraaff, acclaimed Zulu musician Mbuso Khoza has crafted a compelling soundtrack, further enriching the authenticity of Shaka Ilembe.

With Shaka Ilembe, MultiChoice Group sets a new benchmark in storytelling that underscores Africa’s rich heritage and resonates with audiences worldwide. As the countdown begins to the series premiere, one thing is sure – Shaka Ilembe is set to be a global sensation.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

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