- Shaka iLembe received 17 nominations at the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards, topping all other productions
- The historical drama's cast will go head-to-head in several categories, including Best Actor and Best Actress in Television
- The awards ceremony is set to take place at The Playhouse in Durban on 21 November 2026
Source: Instagram
Shaka iLembe has cemented its status as one of KwaZulu-Natal's most celebrated productions, securing a leading 17 nominations at the upcoming Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards. The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, 21 November 2026, at The Playhouse in Durban.
The historical drama towers over its competition. Lucky Fish follows with nine nominations, Meet the Khumalos with eight, and veteran soapie Uzalo with three. What makes Shaka iLembe's sweep particularly notable is that its own cast members will be squaring off against one another across multiple categories.
Shaka iLembe Stars Face Off
In the Best Newcomer Actor in Film and Television category, three Shaka iLembe faces — Cebo Radebe, Kwanele Mkhize, and Anele Nene — will battle it out among themselves. The Best Supporting Actor in Television shortlist is similarly dominated by the show, with Akhona Ndlovu, Zamani Mbatha, and Nkanyiso Mzimela all nominated.
The Best Actress in Television category pits Shaka iLembe Season 2 stars Nomzamo Mbatha and Dawn Thandeka King against Six Nyamane from Homecoming Season 1. Meanwhile, the Best Actor in Television race brings together Wiseman Mncube and Lemogang Tsipa from Shaka iLembe, alongside Uzalo's Masoja Msiza.
KZN's Creative Economy in the Spotlight
KZN Tourism and Film Authority interim CEO Sibusiso Gumbi welcomed the nominations as recognition of the province's broader cultural contribution. "These awards are not simply about recognising outstanding performances or productions. They're about recognising an industry that creates jobs, develops skills, supports businesses and tells stories that connect South Africans with their history, culture and identity," he said.
The awards ceremony honours the legacy of Simon Mabhunu Sabela, a pioneering South African filmmaker and actor whose work helped shape the country's film industry. With Shaka iLembe's record-breaking nominations haul, the province has a strong local favourite heading into what promises to be a competitive night in Durban.
Source: Briefly News
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