Netflix has officially released the teaser for its latest South African telenovela, The Polygamist, a gripping new drama based on the popular novel by Sue Nyathi. The series is produced by the well known production company Stained Glass Productions and is said to be one of the platform’s biggest local releases yet.
What is The Polygamist about?
The story is based on the novel The Polygamist by Sue Nyathi and follows self-made CEO Jonasi Gomora, who builds an empire alongside a complicated personal life. As his choices begin to catch up with him, his world starts to collapse under the weight of those decisions, while the wives and mistresses in his life reflect different sides of the man behind the power.
Who is in the cast of The Polygamist?
The series features a well-known South African cast led by S’dumo Mtshali as Jonasi Gomora and Gugu Gumede as Joyce Gomora. The cast also includes Kenneth Nkosi, Celeste Ntuli, S’thandiwe Kgoroge, Luyanda Zwane, Wonder Ndlovu, Noluthando Shabalala, Vuyo Biyela, Lwazie Keith Tsebesha and Kwanele Mthethwa.
Who is behind the series?
The series brings together a strong South African creative team. It is directed by Akin Omotoso, Rolie Nikiwe and Nthabi Tau, with writing led by Busisiwe Zwane. Executive production is handled by Gugu Zuma-Ncube, Thuli Zuma and Pepsi Pokane under Stained Glass Productions.
The production company’s credits include some of South Africa’s most recognisable television dramas, such as Uzalo (SABC1), Amalanga Awafani, Durban Gen (e.tv), Lingashoni and eHostela. They have also expanded into streaming platforms, working with Netflix on titles such as the Umjolo film collection.
The Polygamist marks their second book adaptation, following The Wife, which was adapted from Dudu Busani-Dube’s Hlomu The Wife series. The Wife originally streamed on Showmax and introduced their first major literary adaptation to television audiences.
When does The Polygamist premiere?
The Polygamist will premiere on 12 June 2026 exclusively on Netflix. The series will be released as a 22-episode season.
What is the book behind The Polygamist series?
The show is adapted from The Polygamist by Sue Nyathi. The novel provides deeper context into the characters and their personal journeys. Reading the book first gives additional background on the story and helps viewers understand the emotional layers before watching the adaptation.
