Queens stay reigning on South Africa’s small screen and Scandal! actress Makoma Mohale lands her first major lead role as the titular Queen Modjadji.

Mzansi Magic’s reimagining of the fascinating story of the Rain Queen is well underway with a fascinating cast to match.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The drama series is inspired by the legendary rainmaker whose bloodline ruled Southern Africa’s Lobedu clan for centuries.

It will feature a creative cast selected based on their ability to master the Khelobedu language and to closely portray the historical figures that form a significant part of the story in the lead-up to Queen Modjadji’s reign, including two former Miss South Africas.Lets Just Have Fun Guys!!”?? (@dokter_phil) April 14, 2024
Now that the cast has been revealed, many were excited to see how this series would deliver a story that isn’t widely told.

After much anticipation, meet the cast of Queen Modjadji:

Makoma Mohale as Queen Modjadji
Scandal! actress Makoma Mohale takes on the role of Maselekwani, Queen Modjadji, the young queen-in-waiting who brings about a golden age of peace and prosperity to the land. No stranger to the small screen, the 27-year-old has appeared on various television shows, including The River. Ngelekanyo Ramulondi is Young Queen Modjadji
Engaging performances in Fatal Seduction and Noughts & Crosses sees Ngele cast as the young Modjadji, 14-year-old Maselegwani.

Ngele Ramulondi is Young Queen Modjadji.
Ngele Ramulondi is Young Queen Modjadji.
Photo: Supplied
Helen Lebepe is Raisibe
Helen, who has several acting roles under her belt such as Redemption and Saints & Sinners, plays Raisibe.

In the story, Raisibe assists Modjadji to get a view into the real world of her people and grows to become her confidant. Helen Lebepe is Raisibe
Helen, who has several acting roles under her belt such as Redemption and Saints & Sinners, plays Raisibe.

In the story, Raisibe assists Modjadji to get a view into the real world of her people and grows to become her confidant. Priscilla Raboroko is Young Raisibe
Priscilla takes on the younger version of Helen Lebepe’s character Raisibe, the daughter of young Maselekwani’s minders. Raisibe is also Maselekwani’s childhood companion and trusted friend.

Priscilla Raboroko is young Raisibe in Queen Modja
Priscilla Raboroko is young Raisibe in Queen Modjadji.
Photo: Supplied
Masutang Rasekele is Dzugudini
Fresh talent continues to make its way to Mzansi television with Masutang Rasekele. She will play Dzugudini, the daughter of the Rain King and the mother of Queen Modjadji.

Dzugudini is a crucial part of the Lovedu history because she is instrumental in saving the kingdom from a catastrophe of drought. Shudufhadzo Musida is Muthanoni Mulalo
In her screen acting debut, Miss SA 2020 and author Shudu Musida takes on the character of Muthanoni Mulalo, who is one of the king and queen’s wives from the vhaVenda royal family.

Shudu Musida is Muthanoni Mulalo in Queen Modjadji
Shudu Musida is Muthanoni Mulalo in Queen Modjadji.
Photo: Supplied
Ndavi Nokeri is Muthanoni Khensani
Miss SA 2022 winner and Miss Universe representative Ndavi Nokeri plays the role of Muthanoni Khensani, another of the king and queen’s wives from the vaTsonga royal family.

In a stunning example of financial prowess and achievement, 23-year-old amapiano sensation Nkosazana Nolwazi Nzama, better known by her stage name Nkosazana Daughter, made headlines by buying a new home outright with cash.

This enormous achievement has not only cemented her place as a rising star in the music world, but it also acts as an example to many aspiring homeowners.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Many people struggle to buy a property outright with cash, making Nkosazana Daughter’s accomplishment all the more amazing.

In an era where financial difficulties are common, particularly in the entertainment sector, her ability to reach such a milestone at such a young age has sparked tremendous appreciation and applause.

Nkosazana Daughter’s path to achievement is characterized by talent, commitment, and tenacity. Rising to fame in 2021, she drew the attention of industry heavyweights after being introduced by the late Mpura to DJ Maphorisa during an Instagram Live session.

Mpura’s endorsement as “the next big thing in mzansi” fueled her swift rise to stardom.

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One of the pivotal milestones of Nkosazana Daughter’s career occurred in September of that year, when she worked with Mpura, Sir Trill, and Zaba on the tune “Izitha”.

The soulful singer’s distinct vocals and evident skill rapidly cemented her reputation as one of the country’s most promising singers.

Throughout her three years in the music industry, Nkosazana Daughter has continued to collaborate with notable artists such as Mordah Bongs, Kabza De Small, and Master KG, solidifying her reputation as a musical force to be reckoned with.

Nkosazana Daughter has joined the ranks of renowned persons such as Gogo Maweni, who recently made headlines for buying a property outright with cash, demonstrating not just her financial savvy but also her determination to living debt-free.

Sharing a photo of her new home on social media, she expressed appreciation for the benefits bestowed upon her, crediting her success to the affection of her followers and God’s mercy.

Former Scandal actress Joyce Skefu has opened up about her recovery after she suffered a stroke two years ago.Skefu, who is also known for the starring roles in Muvhango, Abomama, The Imposter, posted a video on Instagram, where she shared a bit about her recovery journey.

According to Skefu, there was no sign that she was going to have a stroke.She said she could not move when she woke up needing a bathroom around 4 am.

“I couldn’t move and I couldn’t get of the bed,” said the actress.Skefu also revealed that she ended up throwing herself on the floor to get off the bed and crawled to the bathroom.I watched half of my body die slowly,” she added.

 

 

 

 
Joyce Skefu

Skefu described the experience as scary and traumatising, in the video, Skefu is seen giving thanks to God for fighting for her from that traumatic experience.

“Jesus fought for me, the stroke is cruel, it is mean,” Skefu said.

Skefu said she was praying for a full recovery after she posted a video in which she also seen having difficulty walking during her physiotherapy session while being assisted by her instructor.

If you haven’t watched The Ultimatum SA, there’s no time like the present! *Also, where have you BEEN?* 👀
We spoke to the show’s hosts Salamina and Howza about this v reality show. They also open up about returning to TV after 10 years. Full interview hereSalamina and Howza’s are back on our screens after a 10-years break from presenting with The Ultimatum South Africa.
They act as a friend of the couples as they go through their journeys.
The couple, who met on Backstage, were adamant about not getting married for the industry.
Salamina hopes to get back to acting after producing local films and Howza is working on his music.
Attention mjolo content lovers!

It’s only fitting that Salamina and Tshepo ‘Howza’ Mosese – who first met years ago as part of the cast of the nostalgic soapie Backstage – make their first onscreen appearance together to host Netflix’s The Ultimatum South Africa.

The nine-part series, which is a spin off of the global hit social experiment The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On, sees six couples undergo a test of trust, true love, desire and honesty as one partner issues an ultimatum: get married or get out.

Viewers have been enjoying the reality TV treat as Salamina and Howza walk this captivating and drama-filled journey of love and self-discovery alongside everyday South Africans.

“I think [The] Ultimatum South Africa just gives us an opportunity as a couple to show the work side of what we do and obviously, lean into the things that come naturally to us,” Salamina tells TRUELOVE.

They share with us their experience and preparation for the show, love, marriage and everything in between.A sounding board
Over the course of eight weeks, Salamina and Howza share how they had become a sounding board and “friend to the couples” as the contestants put each other through the wringer of a trial marriage.

For both the stars who haven’t hosted on TV in 10 years, Salamina explains, “We’re a big brother, big sister to the couples. We cheer them on. There were times where, I know I did, where you’d shed a tear. Their losses, their wins. So, it was quite a journey. I think it’s a privilege when people let you into their lives. And we’re honored because there’s also a confidentiality that we had to approach this with and the respect for what these couples are putting themselves through.”

Being so involved in the emotional stakes of real-life couples is no easy task. Howza tells us how taxing the process was.

“Look, it’s challenging because you must understand that we are dealing with a show that has a roller coaster of emotions. And it will take its toll on everyone who’s involved in the show because you get consumed into each and every couple’s story.

“And eventually, remember once we were done shooting, how tired we were and how we felt like we needed a holiday because it’s like o ruile mathata a batho (you’re carrying people’s problems) and you almost have to also release as well.”

An ordinary couple
Witnessing the important conversations and emotional turmoil the couples underwent on The Ultimatum South Africa reminded the actors about the beginning of their own 15-year relationship.

And while the country views them as their beloved celebrity power couple, Salamina and Howza implore that they are just like any other ordinary couple and parents who go through their own ups and downs.

Marriage continues to be a learning process, Howza says.

Fans of the popular South African telenovela “Uzalo” were surprised to learn that Thuthuka Mthembu, who plays Nonka, and Cebo Mthembu, who portrays Nyawo, are related in real life. Despite sharing the same surname, many were unaware of their family connection until recently.Family Ties on the Uzalo Set
Over the years, it’s become common to see relatives and even siblings sharing the screen in Mzansi’s soap operas and dramas. One notable example is the Khoza siblings, SK and Abdul, who have both made significant marks in the South African film industry, albeit at different times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Relatives Featuring on Uzalo
“Uzalo” is no stranger to hiring relatives. Mxolisi Majozi, who played the supporting role of Last Number, is the brother of Simphiwe Majozi, who plays the lead character Sbu. Similarly, Omega Mncube, who portrayed Phelelani, is the younger brother of Wiseman Mncube, who played Sbonelo Mhlongo. Interestingly, both brothers’ characters had romantic ties with Nonka, with Sbonelo marrying and later divorcing her.

Additionally, Nompilo Maphumulo, who plays Nosipho, has her real-life son, Luyanda Maphumulo, playing Nthuthuko, the nagging brother to Hleziphi (Sibongiseni Shezi).

The Roles of Nonka and Nyawo
Nonka on Uzalo

Thuthuka Mthembu’s character, Nonka, is a young woman from the humble Xulu family of KwaMashu. Her storyline is inspirational, showcasing her resilience despite facing numerous challenges such as poverty, early marriage, and divorce. Nonka’s journey back to school and her academic success, culminating in her becoming the first Xulu family member to graduate, serves as a powerful message to young girls in South Africa about overcoming adversity.

Nyawo on Uzalo

Cebo Mthembu’s character, Nyawo, is a crooked police officer deeply involved in criminal activities. Despite his superiors’ suspicions about his corruption, they have yet to gather enough evidence to prosecute him. Nyawo recently gained attention by winning the prize money at the KwaMashu Talent Show and receiving an invitation to the South Africa National Spelling Bee competition.

Real-Life Connection
In real life, Thuthuka (Nonka) and Cebo (Nyawo) Mthembu are indeed family. Cebo is Thuthuka’s uncle, being a cousin to her father. Despite growing up with a single mother and an absent father, Thuthuka maintains a strong respect for her paternal relatives, highlighting the importance of family ties.

Conclusion
The revelation of Thuthuka and Cebo Mthembu’s family connection adds an intriguing layer to their on-screen dynamics in “Uzalo.” This real-life relationship is yet another example of how familial bonds often extend into the professional lives of actors in the South African entertainment industry. Fans can continue to enjoy their compelling performances, now with the added context of their real-life connection.