6 Must-watch iconic Mzansi TV-shows
South Africans love a juicy drama – and we’ve had plenty! These shows thrilled us, cracked us up and kept us coming back for more.
The Modern Tales
These new series prove the creative power of our film and TV industry.
Blood and Water
Blood and Water was, at one point, on almost every young South African’s lips. With an easy-to-follow plot, this series kept us wanting more. It centres around 16-year-old Puleng, who lives in the shadow of her missing older sister, who was abducted at birth. Years later, she encounters a girl who shares her birthday – and is intrigued to explore this long-standing mystery. The unconventional scandals and top-quality writing kept viewers glued to the screen.
@netflixsa "I don't regret the kiss" chile 👀 #BloodAndWater ♬ original sound - Netflix South Africa
Young, Famous and African
Drama, gossip, glitz and glamour – this show ‘spills all the tea’ on the rich and famous. Since 2022, Young, Famous and African has revealed what it’s like for some of the most popular and influential people on our continent – and it has kept us hooked again and again.
Shaka iLembe
The retelling of King Shaka’s story, Shaka iLembe, is a compelling portrayal of African history. The award-winning costumes, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful performances by actors like Nomzamo Mbatha and Lemogang Tsipa make this series one of Mzansi’s favourites.
The OGs
How could we forget the soapies that raised us?
7de Laan
After 24 seasons, the beloved TV show 7de Laan was one of the longest-running TV shows in the country. We experienced moments of laughter, betrayal and family chaos. And, we found the common thread connecting us with each character in it too! In the end, the residents of Hillside became like our own community.
@satvthemesong 7de Laan, sabc 2's former soapie. First aired in year 2000 and unfortunately got cancelled in 2021 after 24 seasons. #Viral #CapCut #FYP #SouthAfrica #southafricatiktok ♬ original sound - satvthemesong
Scandal!
When America announced their Kerry Washington-starring series of the same name, South Africans had a word or two to say about it. Our Scandal! was a nail-biting rollercoaster in every episode, and its 17-year run saw characters come and go, drama after drama.
Generations
We’ve been watching Connie Ferguson on our screens every night since 1993! For over 21 seasons, Generations has shown us the resilience of the advertising industry and celebrated the hustle and grind of South Africans striving to build a better life for themselves.
This legendary TV series featured characters from various backgrounds and delivered so many different plot twists that we still can’t believe it to this day.
Words: Saadiqah Schroeder
Photography: Freepik
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