Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Playwright and author Raisedon Baya has thrown his weight behind celebrated Zimbabwean writer Sue Nyathi, urging Netflix to consider adapting more of her novels into television dramas following the success of The Polygamist, a 22-episode series currently making waves across the continent.
Baya made the remarks after successfully hosting a critical review of The Polygamist hosted by the Bulawayo Book Club over the weekend.
The review brought together literature enthusiasts and film lovers who reflected on the impact of seeing a Zimbabwean story transformed into a major international production.
Based on Nyathi’s bestselling 2012 novel of the same name, The Polygamist follows the life of Jonasi Gomora, a wealthy self-made businessman whose carefully crafted world begins to crumble under the weight of secrets, betrayal and multiple relationships. The drama explores themes of marriage, power, deception and survival through the lives of the women connected to him.
The series stars Sdumo Mtshali as Jonasi Gomora and Gugu Gumede as his wife Joyce. Other cast members include Kwanele Mthethwa, S’thandiwe Kgoroge, Kenneth Nkosi, Celeste Ntuli and Luyanda Zwane. The production was produced by Stained Glass Productions and directed by Akin Omotoso, Rolie Nikiwe and Nthabi Tau.
Speaking after the review session, Baya said the success of the adaptation demonstrates the strength of Nyathi’s storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences from different backgrounds.
He said that the positive reception of The Polygamist should encourage streaming giants to invest further in Nyathi’s catalogue of work.
“Hoping the success of The Polygamist will persuade Netflix to give Sue Nyathi a contract for her other books to be turned into drama series too. Starting with The Gold Diggers,” said Baya.
Nyathi, one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated contemporary authors, has built a reputation for crafting compelling narratives centred on family dynamics, ambition, love, betrayal and social realities. Her books have attracted a loyal readership across Africa and beyond.
Among the novels that could easily be adapted into telenovelas are “The Gold Diggers,” a story that explores ambition, wealth and relationships, “A Family Affair,”. which delves into family secrets and emotional conflicts, and
“An Angel’s Demise,” a gripping tale filled with suspense, heartbreak and unexpected twists.
For Baya, the success of The Polygamist is more than just a triumph for Nyathi. It is proof that Zimbabwean stories have the power to captivate global audiences when given the right platform.
