Trailer for SHAKA ILEMBE, a Historical Epic Series About the Rise of the Iconic African King

A trailer has been released for an epic historical series titled Shaka iLembe, and it tells the story of the rise of the iconic African King. The series was produced in Africa by South Africa's Mzansi Magic.

The series is set in the 1700s, Shaka ilembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, “with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood. The production has been six years in the making, consulting historians, academics, and family descendants, including incumbent King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, as well as the late King Goodwill Zwelithini.”

It’s explained: "With ambitions of making a series as epic and vast as Game of Thrones, we want to tell the story of the Nguni peoples who migrated to below the Pongola river and ruled over this verdant land. With 3 action packed seasons mapped out, we hope to breathe life into the kings and queens, warriors and witches, spies, slavers, marauders and traders who lived, loved and fought for this land."

The series stars Lemongang Tsipa (adult king), newcomer Ntando Zondi (boy king), and Nomzamo Mbatha, who plays Queen Nandi, the revered mother of Shaka. She shared in a statement: "I am honoured to bring the giant that is Queen Nandi to life. History will remember those who informed its people of where we come from, to better understand who we are. I am fortunate to be part of a project that is much bigger than ourselves and to tell this story in our own language. Impi iyeza!"

This looks like an impressively made series, and the trailer is filled with some awesome footage. This show has got solid production value and it looks like a show worth watching.

Shaka iLembe is a series co-created and executive produced by Teboho Mahlatsi. It will debut in 2023 on the South African channel Mzansi Magic on DStv. I also included a behind-the-scenes featurette.