Online Reporter
South Africans are not just binge-watching “The Polygamist”, they are also heading straight to bookstores and online retailers in search of the woman behind the story.
The global premiere of “The Polygamist” on Netflix has sparked a reading frenzy across Mzansi.
The 22-episode supernovela quickly climbed to the top spot on Netflix South Africa and introduced thousands of viewers to Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi, whose novel inspired the hit series.
As the show’s popularity continues to grow, so does interest in Nyathi’s wider collection of books.
Social media has been flooded with praise for the author and recommendations for readers eager to explore more of her work.
One X user, @Thee_Cherri, wrote: “Sue Nyathi, I will be reading all your work, mfhazi.”
Another user, @NgcuzaG, shared copies of “The Gold Diggers” and “A Family Affair”, writing: “Just leaving these other amazing Sue Nyathi offerings for those who want to read her other stuff. She’s a brilliant storyteller!”
Meanwhile, @matongo_rutendo celebrated the success of the adaptation, saying: “I’m so happy for Sue Nyathi. ‘The Polygamist’ is my favourite book of hers. Now to read the rest of her books and pray that they’re all made into movies or series.”
For Nyathi, the success of “The Polygamist” is the culmination of a journey that began with rejection.
When she completed her first manuscript in 2012, it was turned down by major publishers. Rather than give up, she borrowed money from a friend and self-published the book while continuing to work in the finance sector.
Her belief in her own work paid off. In 2018, she left her position as an investment analyst to focus on writing full-time.
Fourteen years after first putting the story on paper, “The Polygamist” has become one of the most talked-about series in South Africa.
The story centres on Jonasi Gomora, portrayed by Sdumo Mtshali in the television adaptation.
Jonasi is a wealthy banking executive whose carefully managed life begins to unravel as the women in his life discover the truth about his secret relationships.
Viewers follow the story through the lives of four women. Joyce is the first wife, enjoying a life of comfort and status. Matipa is an ambitious mistress determined to claim her place.
Essie is the hidden second wife from Jonasi’s hometown. Lindani is the young girlfriend who sees marriage as her path to a better life.
The show’s success has also reminded audiences of the strong connection between South African literature and television.
Nozizwe Cynthia Jele’s “Happiness is a Four Letter Word” made the leap from page to screen and became a box office success before spawning a sequel, “Happiness Ever After”.
Crime writer Deon Meyer’s “Trackers” was adapted into an internationally acclaimed television series that brought local stories to a global audience.
Angela Makholwa’s “The 30th Candle” inspired the film “Love, Sex and 30 Candles”, introducing a new generation of viewers to the beloved story.
Then there is “The Wife”, based on Dudu Busani Dube’s bestselling “Hlomu series”.
The Showmax production became a cultural phenomenon, generating conversations around its casting and interpretation of the novels.
The success of “The Polygamist” suggests that audiences remain eager for stories rooted in African experiences.
For Nyathi, it is also proof that perseverance can sometimes lead to success long after the first chapter is written – IOL.
