The gripping journey of “Nikiwe,” the local daily drama that has captured viewers’ hearts, reaches a milestone as it marks its 100th episode this Friday 1st September. Nikiwe“ airs daily on the free to air channel e.tv at 6.30pm and was the first telenovela to be produced by industry titans Thomas Gumede and Lungile Radu, under their production company Parental Advisory Productions.
The riveting daily drama is set against the backdrop of the vibrant Diepkloof Extension, and viewers are introduced to the complex lives of the Radebe family led by the formidable Themba “Bhungane” Radebe, who is married to Mirriam Radebe, the couple shared a loving bond and together, yet destiny took an unexpected turn during a night meant for celebration, forever altering the course of the Radebes’ lives.
“Witnessing the first-ever daily drama by Parental Advisory Productions ‘Nikiwe’ reaching its 100th episode is a remarkable milestone for our production company. It marks a journey of creativity, dedication, and shared passion. This telenovela holds a special place in our hearts as our inaugural venture into this genre” said Thomas Gumede
Lungelo Mpangase brings to life the character of Nikiwe Radebe, the family’s firstborn and the torchbearer of their legacy and later faces life-altering choices after a tragic incident. Craig Nobela portrays Menzi Radebe, Nikiwe’s brother, while Silindokuhle Tshabalala breathes life into Mandisa, the youngest sibling in the family.
“Being part of ‘Nikiwe’ has been a transformative experience. Bringing Nikiwe Radebe to life and navigating her journey of triumphs and tribulations has been a privilege. I am grateful to the audience for their unwavering support, and I look forward to continuing this extraordinary ride.” – said Lungelo Mpangase.
As the layers of the story unfurl, Nikiwe’s grandmother, MaSibisi played by veteran actress Clementine Mosimane, steps out of the shadows of her past, revealing a 15-year sacrifice that casts her in a new light. The drama deepens as Bhungane’s ex-wife played by Soso Rangqu, who no one knew about emerges from the shadows, unveiling a son named Ntsika played by rising star Akhona Ndlovu who demands his place within the Radebe legacy.
Nikiwe recently introduced a KZN storyline where Bheki Mkhwane and Duduzile Ngcobo, made their debut on daily drama to capture Nguni-speaking viewers. Bheki plays Mhlaba, a hard-working man that operates in the taxi industry in KZN Inanda. Dudu plays the role of Mamkhulu and rural KZN is where we find MamKhulu, mother of two children and wife to a hardworking man.
As “Nikiwe” marks its 100th episode milestone, it is a testament to the power of local storytelling, exceptional performances, and the bond shared with its audience. The drama continues to explore the complexities of passion, twists, turns, betrayal, and family dynamics within a world rich with emotion and depth.
The expansive cast also includes a host of captivating characters, each contributing to the rich tapestry of “Nikiwe”:
- Kenneth Nkosi as Uncle Skeitla, Mirriam’s brother and Nikiwe’s uncle, known for his hustler spirit in Orlando Soweto.
- Liopelo Maphate, as Dimakatso Sikhosana, Uncle Skeitla’s wife, is known for her unwavering love and support.
- Lehlohonolo Moloi as Warona Sikhosana, Skeitla and Dimakatso’s cherished daughter.
- Israel Zulu as Mazibuko, a formidable tenderpreneur and Bhungane’s fierce competition.
- Bheki Mkhwane as Mhlaba is a very traditional man with a limited worldview and puts his family above everything.
- Dududzile Ngcobo as Mamkhulu and Mondli Makhoba as Bheki
Tune in to “Nikiwe,” airing daily on the free-to-air channel e.tv at 6:30 pm, and join the journey that has captivated South African viewers.
Cece Smith 