Divorce is a traumatic time for anyone who takes that step, but every dark cloud has a silver lining. The brand new Mzansi Magic sitcom, Lenyalo ha se Papadi, focuses on how humour can be catalyst to healing, and it will premiere on DStv Channel 161 on Monday 9 January 2023.

Starring Meshack Magabane and Mapaseka Koetle, the 13-episode comedy follows the drama that ensues after Desmond (Mavuso Magabane) and Mpho (Koetle) decide to end their marriage, and try to navigate a new life of co-parenting, family, finances and attempting to date – all while still living under the same roof!

The sitcom is produced by Black Brain Pictures (DiepCity, Lockdown).

“Over the past few years, the telenovela, drama and reality genres have been a hit with our viewers. One genre we’re excited to also bring to the forefront on our channel slates is comedy. We’re constantly ahead of the curve when it comes to viewer tastes and preferences, and diversifying our line-up is a move we are confident our audience will embrace,” says Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net. 

At the age of 40, Mpho believes it’s the perfect time to end her 15-year marriage to Desmond. After being a devoted wife and mother to their two children, she has reached breaking point and asks for a divorce from Desmond.

Expecting a smooth process, things take a dramatic – and sometimes funny – turn when Mpho realises she cannot afford to move out of their marital home as the divorce process unfolds… and neither can her husband. Both are trapped while trying to start a new life without each other. Who will crack first?

“We’re proud of the contribution we have made to the growth of the South African film and television industry and we have enjoyed going back to the genre that started it all for Black Brain Pictures. We can’t wait for viewers to enjoy some much-needed humour that we will be bringing to the screens with our new productions,” says Mandla N, Creative Director of Black Brain Pictures.

Mpumelelo Nhlapo, Executive Producer of Black Brain Pictures, adds: “South Africans are known for their great sense of humour and with all the heaviness that is going on in the world, we felt that this would be the right time to return strongly in the new year on a humorous note with our upcoming shows.” 

In addition to award winners Mavuso Magabane (The River, Isibaya) and Koetle (Grootboom & Sons), the cast of Lenyalo ha se Papadi includes both established names as well as up-and-comers, such as: screen legend Clementine Mosimane (Poppie Nongena, Legacy, The Republic); singer and actor Nomzamo ‘Zamo’ Dlamini; award-winning Mandla Gauduka (District 9, Losing Lerato); actor and singer Nicholas Nkuna (Baby Mamas, Meet the Radebes); Lindokuhle Mbonani; Siphiwe Ngcongwane; and Thando Dunjani.

Mzansi Magic is bringing fun to Monday nights. Don’t miss the premiere of Lenyalo ha se Papadi on Monday 9 January 2023 at 20h00, on DStv Channel 161. Get ready for a hilarious emotional rollercoaster!