e.tv is turning up the heat this April with the launch of Emzini, a bold new township drama series set to premiere on 13 April at 9PM. The series replaces Smoke & Mirrors and promises a gripping mix of ambition, family loyalty and long-buried secrets.
Set in Alexandra township, Emzini centres around a popular lifestyle venue owned by the powerful Nkosi family. While the lounge represents success and status in the community, it quickly becomes the centre of a dangerous power struggle as hidden betrayals begin to surface. As tensions rise, the fight for control turns the business into both a symbol of legacy and a prize worth winning.
Emzini brings together a strong ensemble cast of seasoned actors and rising stars. Leading the story is Wiseman Mncube, who takes on the role of Shaka Nkosi, the complex and emotionally driven eldest son at the centre of it all. Mncube reunites with Khabonina Qhubeka, who plays his on-screen mother, Dudu Nkosi. The two previously starred as mother and son in Shaka iLembe.
The cast
Wiseman Ncube as Shaka Nkosi
The respected and feared eldest son who finds himself caught between protecting his family’s legacy and confronting the emotional burden of his past. Determined to secure his rightful place at the helm of Emzini, Shaka must also come to terms with the truth about his biological father and the secrets that have defined his life.
Khabonina Qhubeka as Dudu Nkosi
The iron-fisted matriarch who built Emzini through resilience, sacrifice, and ruthless survival instincts. Fiercely protective of her empire and her son Shaka, Dudu’s determination to protect her past decisions threatens to alienate her other children and place her carefully constructed world at risk.
Muzi Mathabela as Zakhele Nkosi
The retired police captain whose influence and power have shaped both his family and the Alexandra community. Ruthless and strategic, Zakhele’s world is shaken when he discovers the truth about Shaka’s paternity, triggering a bitter power struggle that threatens to tear the Nkosi family apart.
Dumisani Mbebe as Panyaza Fakude
A man seeking redemption after spending 25 years in prison for a crime tied to the Nkosi family’s past. His return introduces emotional complexity and unfinished business, as he attempts to reconnect with his son and reclaim a place in the life he lost.
Tyson Mathonsi as Bandile Nkosi
The ambitious and calculating middle son determined to prove himself worthy of leading the family empire.
Manqoba Khumalo as Junior Nkosi
The carefree youngest brother whose dreams of becoming a DJ place him on a different path from the family’s power struggles, until circumstances force him to confront reality.
Thuso Mokoena as Oratilwe Modise
A talented young musician chasing fame as her escape from hardship, unaware of how deeply her story is connected to the Nkosi family.
Bokang Phelane as Rorisang Modise
A resilient and principled young woman determined to rebuild her life after her father’s murder left her family in poverty. Now working as a waitress at Emzini after losing her job for standing up for justice, she is driven by a desire to reclaim her family’s legacy while protecting her younger sister, despite the emotional scars of her past.
Motshabi Tyelele as Nhlokomeleng Modise
A soft-spoken and deeply wounded widow struggling to rebuild her life after the murder of her husband left her family in poverty. Burdened by guilt after losing the family land, she leans on her faith while trying to hold her daughters together, hoping for redemption and the strength to reclaim her dignity.
Nomsa Buthelezi as Gogo Ongabizw’ngegama
A respected traditional healer whose spiritual wisdom and guidance help shape the Nkosi family’s journey.
Bhuhle Moletsane as Lerato
A witty and ambitious waitress determined to secure a better future.
Nozi Langa as Mmaserame
A hardworking young woman with dreams of building her own business.
Tumi “Stopnonsons” Matlila as Marinade
A flamboyant waiter with big fashion dreams and an even bigger personality. With ambitions of becoming a style icon, Marinade brings humour and heart to the series while representing the aspirations of young people determined to rise above their circumstances.
At its core, Emzini is a story about survival, redemption, and the consequences of our choices. As the past begins to catch up with the present, viewers can expect emotional twists, unexpected alliances and powerful character journeys that explore what it truly means to fight for family and legacy.
Emzini premieres Monday 13 April e.tv at 9 PM
