Johannesburg’s winter chill was no match for the royal energy that swept through Montecasino Fourways on Thursday evening, 12 June, as Shaka iLembe Season 2 Premiere event took place in a glittering celebration fit for the kingdom it brings to life.
The premiere turned the complex into a Zulu royal court, welcoming a host of stars, cultural figures, and high-ranking dignitaries. The event marked the return of South Africa’s most decorated drama series, fresh off a historic run of 12 SAFTA wins and 19 nominations.
Guests were treated to themed cocktails and a menu inspired by traditional cuisine, served in clay dishes. The gold carpet buzzed with energy. The dress code, “African Royalty”, was embraced in full as attendees arrived adorned in beads, animal prints, and elaborate gowns, unbothered by the Joburg cold.
Lemogang Tsipa, returning as King Shaka, stood tall in a black-and-gold outfit. Executive Producer and actress Nomzamo Mbatha turned heads in a beaded Gert-Johan Coetzee gown. Former Miss Universe and newlywed Zozibini Tunzi added even more glamour. Shaka iLembe cast members Baby Cele, Dawn Thandeka King, Mondli Makhoba,Thembinkosi Mthembu, Wiseman Mncube, Zamani Mbatha, Luyanda Zuma, Anele Nene, Calvin Ratladi, Xolani Khowa and more, mingled with pride as they took stage last night.
To set the mood, the Amabutho patrolled the venue, singing and dancing with warrior precision. Their presence continued into the theatre, adding ceremony to the moment.
His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and Prince Sicelo of Eswatini attended the launch, offering a royal nod to a production already praised for its scale and cultural depth.
The Gold Carpet was broadcast live on Mzansi Magic and Mzansi Wethu, giving fans across the country a chance to be part of the moment. Inside the theatre, guests were moved by a powerful live performance from music composer and actor Mbuso Khoza, whose voice seemed to call on the ancestors honoured in the series. Viewers who may have missed the live broadcast on Thursday, 12 June can catch the additional airing tomorrow, 14 June at 18:30 on Mzansi Wethu channel 163 and on Mzansi Magic channel 161 on Sunday, 15 June at 14:00.
CEO of General Entertainment at MultiChoice, Nomsa Philiso took to the stage to thank Bomb Productions and the broader channel team for bringing to life a show that, in her words, “reminds us of the power of telling our stories the right way”.
With its high production values, standout cast, and dedication to African storytelling, Shaka iLembe Season 2 is set to raise the bar once again.
Shaka iLembe Season 2 premieres on Sunday, 15 June at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161.
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