Online Reporter
MZANSI Magic asked and Mzansi answered! In a wave of overwhelming support, iconic telenovela Isibaya has won the hearts and votes of viewers, earning its place in the channel’s highly anticipated 15th birthday celebrations.
After weeks of public voting in a competition that had fans rallying behind their favourite shows, Isibaya came out on top with a commanding 23,1 percent of the total vote. As a result, the beloved series will make a dramatic return to screens, airing weekdays at 6.30 pm on Mzansi Magic.
Launched as part of a viewer-driven campaign, Mzansi Magic invited fans to vote for the shows that made the biggest impact over the years. From the very beginning, Isibaya raced ahead of the competition, proving its legacy still lives strong in the hearts of South Africans.
Known for its gripping portrayal of feuding taxi families, complex family dynamics, and deep-rooted isiZulu traditions, Isibaya was more than just a telenovela, it was a cultural juggernaut.
“Isibaya was more than just a TV show; it was a cultural phenomenon that had its finger on the pulse of Mzansi local television,” said Shirley Adonisi, director of local entertainment channels at M-Net.
“As we celebrate 15 years of Mzansi Magic, it warms our hearts to see our audiences celebrating the stories that became a part of their lives. This recognition is theirs, our viewers who have been with us from day one on this journey.”
As excitement builds for Isibaya’s return, fans are taking a moment to reflect on the unforgettable characters and stars who brought the show to life. The series introduced Mzansi to household names including Bheki Mkhwane (Samson Ndlovu); Siyabonga Thwala (Mpiyakhe Zungu); Nomzamo Mbatha (Thandeka Zungu); Sdumo Mtshali (S’busiso Ndlovu); Ayanda Borotho (Phumelele Zungu); Celeste Ntuli (Siphokazi Zungu); and Thembi Nyandeni (Mkabayi Zungu).
The return also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late legends who made indelible marks on the show, including Menzi Ngubane (Judas Ngwenya), Andile Gumbi (Zweli Shezi); and the recently departed Mam’ Nandi Nyembe, who played Gog’Mkhithi.
Originally premiering on 18 March 2013, Isibaya ran for eight gripping seasons until its finale on 2 April.
Over the years, the show scooped up more than 50 awards, including multiple Saftas and Royalty Soapie Awards, solidifying its status as one of the most celebrated telenovelas in South African television history.
Produced by The Bomb! Productions, the show returns not just as a nostalgic celebration, but as a reminder of the power and potential of local storytelling.
The Isibaya rebroadcast is part of a broader campaign marking 15 years of Mzansi Magic. The first round of winners in the channel’s ongoing viewers’ competition will be announced this Friday, with weekly competitions running from 1 September to 31 October.
Sidumisile Mabena