Third and final season of 'Shaka iLembe' coming to screens in 2026
Global star Nomzamo Mbatha returns as both Executive Producer and in her iconic role as Queen Nandi, leading a stellar cast in the concluding chapter of Africa’s first epic drama.
Image: Supplied/Mzansi Magic
After an epic season two, Multichoice has confirmed that production is underway for the third and final season, “Shaka iLembe”.
Renowned star Nomzamo Mbatha returns as both Executive Producer and in her iconic role as Queen Nandi, leading a stellar cast in the concluding chapter of Africa’s first epic drama.
“The pressure is high. ‘Shaka iLembe’ has been a beloved show for the past two seasons and the project of my career,” shared Mbatha.
“This third season is the culmination of a world that African viewers have found deep love and admiration for.
“It builds on the legacy of African television while taking audiences on a journey from an all-conquering reign, to sweeping love stories, to the founding of another nation and the arrival of colonists. This is a triumphant telling of Nguni history on an epic scale.”
The final season of “Shaka iLembe” chronicles the thunderous conclusion of Shaka’s reign, a saga of vision, glory and betrayal. As he hosts the grandest Ijadu in Zulu history, drawing rival kings to his kraal with power, song and dance, an assassin’s spear pierces royal blood.
Lemogang Tsipa stars as Shaka in "Shaka iLembe," which is the most-watched DStv drama series ever, and was the most searched TV series on Google in 2023.
Image: Supplied/Mzansi Magic
From that moment, suspicion unravels trust within his court, as betrayal is punished with ruthless force. A campaign against the Mpondo tribe intensifies pressures, while Queen Nandi conceals a devastating secret.
Meanwhile, Francis Fynn and the British arrive at Port Natal, as colonial expansion begins to cast its shadow.
“Shaka iLembe” is MultiChoice’s biggest production yet, which has created over 8,000 jobs on season one and more than 16,000 jobs on season two, while showcasing South Africa’s beautiful terrain to local and international audiences.
Produced by BOMB! Productions, “Shaka iLembe” is the most-awarded drama in the history of the South African Film and Television Awards and has received international recognition.
“As we enter the third season, we expand that universe of kings and queens, warriors, healers and leaders with a vision to reinvent an entire culture and establish a legacy that endures more than three centuries later.
“Having the freedom to explore the rise of a dynasty and do it justice has been key to Shaka iLembe’s success. With season three, we hope to bring this story to a powerful close, a legacy for all Africans to honour and celebrate,” said Executive Producer Desiree Markgraaff from BOMB! Productions.
“Shaka iLembe” stars Lemogang Tsipa, Wiseman Mncube, Dawn Thandeka King, Sthandiwe Kgoroge, Mondli Makhoba, Mpilo Mbatha, Anele Nene, Vuyo Biyela and introduced the world to Ntando Zondi, who played the young Shaka. New cast members for season three will be announced in due course
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