Hope Mbhele’s big role on Shaka iLembe

Mthwalume’s very own, Hope Mbhele, is flying the South Coast flag high as she is among the cast of Shaka iLembe which premiered on June 18 on DStv’s Mzansi Magic.

Mbhele was alongside big names such as Nomzamo Mbatha, Thembinkosi Mthembu, Wiseman Mncube, Lemongang Tsipa, and Ntando Zondi.

According to the producers of Shaka iLembe, the 12-part series tells the story of the famous Zulu King, Shaka Zulu, and the events that shaped his remarkable life.

They added that while the series is an entertainment title and a fictional interpretation of historical events, producers Bomb Productions have taken care to ensure that Nguni culture is authentically portrayed and respected.

Mbhele bagged the role of Baleka, who was a healer for the Mthethwa King Jobe and later King Makhasana of the Mabhudu.
She was described as a passionate healer and a young scientist filled with determination and fierce independence.

“She dedicated her life to healing and the direction of the ancestors, bringing comfort to those in need. She believed in the importance of pursuing her own dreams and aspirations, regardless of societal expectations,” said the producers.

Taking to social media, Mbhele said: “I am privileged to be able to tell African stories and I am so proud to be a part of this project. From Africa to the world.”

The rising star from the South Coast also appears in Mzansi Magic’s Sunday night thriller, Umkhokha. She also had a role on SABC 1’s Uzalo. Also, Mbhele has been a radio personality for Metro FM and Gagasi FM.

According to Mzansi Magic, with a creative team helmed by Oscar-nominated director, Angus Gibson, executive producers Nomzamo Mbatha, Nhlanhla Mtaka, and Desiree Markgraaff, working with Professor Hlonipha Mokoena (cultural and historical advisor); Shaka iLembe is the biggest production it ever undertook and was fully funded by the MultiChoice Group as part of their expansive local content slate.

DStv media sales CEO Fahmeeda Cassim-Surtee said Shaka iLembe represents the best of African storytelling, saying that it was created for a local market, but it is also, most certainly, a global television property.

“This is an epic series (and is) told on an epic scale and it is destined to keep audiences tuned in with strong plotlines, stunning visuals, an evocative soundtrack, and a range of powerhouse performances,” she said.

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