Shaka iLembe Renewed for Season III
Shaka iLembe Renewed for Season III. This is arguably one of the best local drama series to ever air on TV. For two seasons Shaka iLembe gave viewers world class acting, the best stroyline filled with drama, pride, and history lessons in abundance.
Season 1 which aired in 2023, showed us kings and queens, warriors, witches, spies and traders struggling for power. Nandi’s beauty captivated King Senzangakhona kaJama. This saw the birth of Shaka, who was unfortunately denied by his father. We got to witness Shaka’s path to manhood and how he was shaped by trials along the way. Season I, also featured storylines about King Dingiswayo (Mthembu)’s exile and Queen Nandi’s refusal to be silenced by the will of men.
Season 2 picked up as Shaka and Nandi arrived in KwaNobamba, where he began his reign as the new Zulu king, and explored how he established a powerful empire. Among other things, Shaka avenged the death of Dingiswayo, who died at the hands of the Ndwandwes, led by King Zwide kaLanga. The Zulus, also defeated the Ndwandwes, and became the most powerful clan.
Both season 1 and 2 of Shaka iLembe have been recognized for their elaborate costumes, cinematography, soundtracks, CGI and nuanced portrayal of Zulu culture and tradition. In total, the show has won 12 SAFTAs. Lead actress Nomzamo Mbatha bagged a Best African Actress award at the 2024 Septimius Awards in Amsterdam for her Season 1 role.
The good news for viewers is that Season 3 is in the making. This season will chronicle “the final, thunderous act of Shaka’s reign – a saga of vision, glory, and betrayal.”
