Mzansi Magic's 15th birthday: a timeline of celebration
2012
The rise of telenovelas
Inkaba becomes the first telenovela on Mzansi Magic. The acclaimed John Kani serves as executive producer and show protagonist, Mkhuseli Mthetho.
2013
A long labour of love
Isibaya starts in 2013, ending in 2021 and becomes one of the longest running telenovelas ending at eight incredible seasons. 🙌
2015
A fresh perspective
Media personality Somizi joins the Idols SA judging panel and his term “wooshem!” becomes a thing.
2018
From USA to Mzansi
Hollywood actor Tichina Arnold, best known as Pamela “Pam” 😃 on the comedy Martin, features on Lockdown season 3. 🇿🇦
2019
A fierce lawyer
Sandra Stein, a character portrayed by actor Shannon Esra is seen on The Queen. The character goes on to appear in The River, Gomora, The Throne, and sister channel M-Net’s Legacy. Sandra becomes Mzansi’s favourite lawyer. 💙
2022
Back with a bang
Big Brother Mzansi 🇿🇦 returns to South African TV screens after a six-year hiatus, with the third season being called Big Brother Mzansi: Beke Le Beke.
2023
Our history
Shaka iLembe airs and claims 12 South African Filma and Television awards (SAFTAs) in 2024, becoming the most awarded drama series in the history of the awards show. Shaka iLembe tells the story of the making of one of South Africa’s greatest kings, King Shaka.
2025
Spreading happiness
Mzansi Magic celebrates its 15th birthday! 🎉 Tune in to the pop-up channel, Raised by Mzansi on DStv channel 196.