Rising star Ntando Zondi has recently joined the cast of the highly successful telenovela “Sibongile and The Dlaminis” for its eagerly anticipated second season.
According to reports from TVSA, Zondi steps into the role of Themba, a character who embodies the complexities of family dynamics within the narrative. Themba is the 16-year-old love child of Njengaye, portrayed by Siyabonga Shibe, and Nomfundo, played by Xoli Zondi.
Notably, his upbringing has been fraught with separation, as he has been kept away from his extended family and has experienced a tumultuous relationship with both his parents, receiving sporadic glimpses of his mother during her visits.
Zondi is the second addition to the show’s lineup, following the introduction of newcomer Nsikelelo Mthiyane, who will take on the role of the second Sibongile, replacing actress Luyanda Zwane, who confirmed her exit after fulfilling her commitments for the first season.
The departure of Zwane comes as she expressed her desire to move on after completing her season one obligations, a decision she revealed to Zimoja. The significance of the show is underscored by its impressive ratings; according to the Broadcasting Research Council of South Africa (BRCSA), “Sibongile and The Dlaminis” has become the most-watched program on DStv, with reported viewership figures peaking at 1.3 million in June.
Nomsa Philiso, the CEO of general entertainment at MultiChoice, celebrated the show’s success, attributing its popularity to a combination of exceptional scripting, stellar casting, and high production values.
She expressed optimism for continued growth in viewership as the show enters its second season, which is set to premiere on July 29. The excitement surrounding Zondi’s new role and the overall developments in the series reflect the show’s vital place in the landscape of South African television entertainment.
