The Story ⚡
The teaser for Shaka iLembe Season 2 is out! Following the epic origin story in Season 1, the new season dives into Shaka’s reign as the Zulu king.
Tell Me More
After a highly successful first season that earned multiple international and local awards—including 12 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) and two Septimius Awards in Amsterdam , Shaka iLembe is back with an exciting second season, officially announced with a teaser. Set to premiere on June 15, 2025, on Mzansi Magic, the new season picks up where King Shaka and Queen Nandi arrive at KwaNobamba to begin their reign as Zulu king and queen.
Returning to their roles are Lemogang Tsipa as Shaka Zulu and Nozamo Mbatha as Queen Nandi, alongside familiar faces like Dawn Thandeka, Khabonina Qubeka, and Thembinkosi Mthembu. This season also introduces new characters, promising even more drama and intensity. Produced by Bomb! Productions for M-Net’s Mzansi Magic, Shaka iLembe remains South Africa’s most expensive TV production to date
Key Background
Bomb! Productions has been a powerhouse in South African storytelling since 1997, creating groundbreaking TV dramas, documentaries, commercials, and museum installations that resonate deeply with audiences. Rooted in the South African experience and fueled by local talent, the company consistently delivers record-breaking content inspired by both historical and contemporary narratives.
Their impressive portfolio includes hit TV dramas like Isibaya, Jacob’s Cross, Shuga, and Isithembiso, as well as standout feature films like Love and Broken Bones and Back of the Moon. With a reputation for authenticity and compelling storytelling, Bomb! continues to shape the industry while celebrating African heritage.
Tangent
The portrayal of Shaka Zulu in films and TV shows has always walked a fine line between historical accuracy and creative storytelling. While Shaka’s legacy as a military innovator and strategic leader is well-documented, past narratives have often romanticised or exaggerated key events in his life.
For example, one widely circulated account of his military prowess is the Battle of Gqokli Hill, said to be a decisive moment in his rise to power. However, historians have cast doubt on the event’s authenticity, arguing that it was likely a fabrication by E.A. Ritter in his 1955 book Shaka Zulu.
The book, which significantly shaped public perception of Shaka, was based on oral history rather than verifiable records, leading to myths being accepted as fact. Shaka iLembe has the unique opportunity to separate historical truths from dramatized fiction.
With Season 1 already praised for its attention to detail and use of isiZulu language, fans will be keen to see how the series continues to balance authenticity with entertainment in Season 2. Will the new season dive into real-life political tensions, or will it lean into the legend of Shaka?
In Summary
The new season will premiere on Mzansi Magic on 15 June.
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