From beloved fan favourite to one of the most talked-about villains on South African television, Sisa Hewana is having a career-defining moment. 

Best known to many viewers for his long-running role as Skhumbuzo on Isidingo, Hewana has also left his mark on hit productions like The Queen and Unmarried. But it’s his portrayal of Hlathi in Inimba (Mon – Fri at 21:00 on Mzansi Magic, DStv channel 161) that has truly set screens and social media alight. 

Dark, layered, and unapologetically controversial, Hlathi is the kind of character viewers can’t stop debating: a villain they love to hate. With Inimba season 2 coming in 2026 with higher stakes and shocking twists, Hlathi continues to be the character viewers love to yell at every single episode.

In this interview, the actor shares more about bringing Hlathi to life, the overwhelming audience response, and why flawed characters often tell the most powerful truths.

Mzansi Magic (MM): Hlathi is one of the most talked-about characters on TV. How did you prepare emotionally for such a complex role?

Sisa Hewana (SH): A great deal of introspection. Hlathi’s complexity lies in the conflict between his actions and his explicit beliefs. I had to accept my own complexity as a human being without judgement.

(MM): Did you expect the show and your character to resonate this deeply?

(SH): Honestly, I had hoped that the show and the character would resonate, but I didn’t expect such an overwhelming response. You pour your heart into something and throw caution to the wind, but to see people stopping me in public to debate Hlathi’s choices, or to tell me about their obsession with Inimba, it’s incredibly warm and humbling.

(MM): What has been the reaction in your own life since the show’s popularity?

(SH): A lot of selfies! On social media, Hlathi has to be the most hated villain on TV, but in person, people show me love and tell me how much they appreciate my portrayal of the character.

(MM): With Inimba renewed for S2, what can fans expect from Hlathi next? 

(SH): Viewers can expect a Hlathi that has matured and learned from his past mistakes. However, Hlathi will always be the villain that viewers love to hate. It is going to be another season full of surprises and edge-of-your-seat drama!

(MM): Do you ever discover new layers of Hlathi while the camera is rolling – something that surprises even you?

(SH): Almost all the time! That’s the magic of working with such a talented cast and crew.
Sometimes in a scene, a look or a line delivery will spark something completely unplanned and a sudden flash of pain or passion. Those are my favourite moments, when it feels like the character truly comes alive.

(MM): Zenande Mfenyana recently won a National Film & TV Awards (NFTA) award for Best Actress. What’s it like to work with her?

(SH): Working with Zenande is like having a front-row seat to excellence. She’s phenomenal, and the Best Actress award was so deserved.

(MM): Inimba trends after almost every episode. Do you ever check online to see what fans are saying about Hlathi? What has been the most shocking comment?

(SH): I have a little peek every now and then, just so I can have something to contribute to the conversations in the green room. It’s important to stay connected sometimes. This is the most shocking comment for me.

(MM): What kind of man does he represent, and how do you personally feel about him as a villain?

(SH): I believe Hlathi represents the part in all of us that feels entitled to protect the people they love. Even if it means hurting them unintentionally. I have compassion for him because he has good intentions, sometimes with not-so-good consequences.

(MM): How do you stay consistent with every role you play? 

(SH): Homework! I have to know the characters’ backstory based on the actions they’re taking. I ask questions regarding the character’s intent and beliefs, as well as their part in the overall story. Finding the character’s heart beyond the script.

(MM): What advice can you give to upcoming actors? 

(SH): Invest in getting to know yourself first before any other character. What are your needs and wants? What are you trying to prove? What do you love? What actions have you taken that go against what you believe? How does it feel like to be you? Suddenly you can be the kind of actor who has a lot to give.

While waiting for season 2, Inimba season 1 continues to air on weekdays at 21:00 on Mzansi Magic DStv channel 161. Join the conversation on social media using #InimbaMzansi and #MzansiMagic Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and Mzansi Magic’s website.