Viewers were left in tears this past Sunday as Shaka iLembe aired one of its most powerful and emotional episodes to date, marking the heartbreaking death of King Dingiswayo, the revered leader of the Abathethwa.
The tragic moment also signaled the exit of Thembinkosi Mthembu, whose remarkable portrayal of the noble king has captivated audiences since Season 1.
The show’s official Instagram account paid tribute to both the character and the actor on Sunday, July 27, writing:
“Tonight we bade farewell to our beloved character, King Dingiswayo, portrayed with extraordinary depth and dignity by @thembinkosi__mthembu.
A great king. A visionary leader. A man of unwavering honour. Even in his final moments, he stood as a true Mthethwa king: proud, resolute, and noble. We salute you, Thembinkosi.”
Fans and fellow stars flooded the comment section with love and praise for Mthembu’s stellar performance. Musician Zulu Mkhatini declared,
“Your performance was world class, highly impressed! Well done bafo usebenzile!”
Actress Zola Nombona added,
“Congratulations, champ. Your performances were truly impeccable! Makwande!”
One fan even declared,
“@thembinkosi__mthembu u deserve an Oscar for this role.”
Mthembu’s portrayal of King Dingiswayo has not only resonated with audiences but also earned him critical acclaim. In June 2024, he was nominated for Best Actor at the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards, and a few months later, he clinched the South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Actor, cementing his place as one of South Africa’s most gifted talents.
What’s Next for Thembinkosi?
Although fans are bidding farewell to King Dingiswayo, they won’t have to wait long to see Thembinkosi Mthembu back on their screens. He is set to star in a brand-new drama series titled Homecoming, premiering on 28 July 2025 at 18:30 on Mzansi Wethu.
In Homecoming, Mthembu plays Sifiso Kubheka, a man who straddles two worlds as both a police officer and a traditional healer. The show is set in the rural town of Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, and centers on Zethu, a brilliant but struggling medical graduate played by Mpume “Six” Nyamane. When Zethu returns to her village after failing to secure work in the city, she encounters Sifiso, sparking a journey filled with spiritual discovery, healing, and possibly love.
With his unforgettable performance in Shaka iLembe and an exciting new lead role ahead, Thembinkosi Mthembu continues to shine as one of South Africa’s brightest and most versatile actors.
