by Thinus Ferreira
The 8th season of the most-watched show on South African television will debut on Friday 4 March when Uzalo on SABC1 will introduce some new characters into the KwaMashu-set primetime series in the form of the Magwaza family.
"We are excited for audiences to experience a reimagined Uzalo," says Stained Glass TV executive producer Pepsi Pokane.
"The production team promises a season of high-stakes drama, riveting storylines, creativity, and skilful production. The production has several new faces joining the show, and it is a great pleasure to work with this impressive talent."
"We are confident that our viewers are eager to continue experiencing authentic stories that represent their everyday realities in a way that resonates with them."
The 8th season of Uzalo will usher in a new ensemble cast led by the Magwaza family that might be more than a match for the notorious Nkunzi.
The Magwaza family matriarch Njinji,
portrayed by Thembi Nyandeni, is described as "a ruthless wolf in sheep's
clothing" whose power-play dealings will "shake
the whole Kwamashu community" according to the show.
The character of Njinji is introduced in Uzalo with her daughter, Nomaswazi Magwaza (Omuhle Gela), described as "a beautiful, smart, and
conniving woman that moves stealthily, much like her mother".
Cousin Vikizitha Magwaza (Siyabonga Radebe) is described as "a charming and lethal criminal with his eyes fixed on
Nkunzi's throne.
Then there is Simon Nsimbi (Ronald Mkhwanazi), Njinji's son, right-hand man and described as a "voice of reason".
The police force is expanded with Constable Biyela (Thabisile Zikhali), described as "an honest and well-educated woman determined to keep the
department on the straight and narrow".
The character of Flavia (Sthembile Mhlongo) is a "focused and independent career woman".
In addition to these new characters, Amahle Sishi (Hope Mbhele) enters the world of Uzalo as a "fun and liberal woman that captures the attention of Lilly".
Kwanda (Sandile Mfusi) makes his arrival in KwaMashu "as a driven and
charming man that woos Nonka into his attractive web, concealing his
ulterior motives".
