Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Bestselling author Sue Nyathi has opened up about the long and emotional journey behind the Netflix adaptation of her hit novel The Polygamist, a dream that took 13 years to become reality.
Now transformed into a gripping 22-episode telenovela, The Polygamist is set to shine a global spotlight on African storytelling, bringing themes of love, betrayal, ambition and survival to screens around the world.
The drama centres on four women whose lives become dangerously intertwined through wealthy and influential banker Jonasi Gomora, a man whose power stretches far beyond the boardroom. The series dives deep into the realities of polygamy, exposing the emotional turmoil, loyalty battles and hidden betrayals that simmer beneath the surface.
Award-winning actor Sdumo Mtshali leads the cast as the formidable Jonasi Gomora, while Gugu Gumede stars as Joyce Gomora, a wife caught between love and heartbreak in a troubled marriage.
The powerhouse cast also includes Kwanele Mthethwa, Sthandiwe Kgoroge, Kenneth Nkosi, comedian Celeste Ntuli, as well as rising stars Luyanda Zwane and Vuyo Biyela.
Production is being handled by Stained Glass Productions, the creative force behind hit productions such as Uzalo, Durban Gen and The Wife.
But behind the glamour lies a story of persistence and patience.
Nyathi revealed that talks of adapting The Polygamist began shortly after the novel’s release in March 2012. By 2013, there were already plans to turn the story into a film.
Ntathi said actresses Nthati Moshesh and Xolile Tshabalala were among the first industry figures to show interest in the project.
“We spent time pitching to people in the industry, but the funding never materialised and eventually we let it go. Still, I believed the seed had been planted, and what was planted would eventually bear fruit,” she said.
The project later found new life through writer Lawrence Zidyana, who encouraged Nyathi to try screenwriting herself despite her having no prior experience.
“At the time, I knew nothing about screenwriting, but Zidyana promised to teach me. We co-wrote the first draft, but in the end we felt it wasn’t strong enough and decided to shelve it,” said Nyathi.
In 2015, acclaimed filmmaker Rolie Nikiwe and his wife Khobile Ledwaba revived the project through their production company. Nyathi officially optioned the film rights to them in 2017, but once again, the adaptation stalled before production could begin.
The breakthrough finally came in 2022 when Stained Glass Productions approached her with a fresh vision for the story.
“I suppose it’s all about timing. The idea was born 13 years ago, but it’s only now, in 2026, that the film is finally coming to life,” said Nyathi.
For Nyathi, the Netflix adaptation is more than just a television milestone, it is proof that African stories, rooted in local realities and experiences, can captivate audiences across the globe.
