Tune in to the special Mzansi Pop-Up channel (DStv Channel 196) on Saturday, 29 July at 18:00 for Part 1 of the star-studded documentary celebrating Mzansi Magic’s 15th anniversary, a tribute to the channel’s legacy, talent, and cultural impact.
From humble beginnings to household fame, Mzansi Magic has been the launchpad for some of South Africa’s most beloved stars and groundbreaking shows. This documentary takes viewers on a journey through the channel’s evolution, highlighting the stories that shaped a generation and the talent that brought them to life.
“For the past 15 years Mzansi Magic has stood at the heart of South Africa’s local entertainment. This documentary is an ode to all the characters, production teams and everyone who has been part of the Mzansi Magic family from inception. We also celebrate the legends that have passed on, giving a special nod and mention to Nkateko Mabaso who was a crucial part of this journey” says Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net.
The documentary features exclusive interviews and reflections from the stars who helped define the channel’s legacy and they include:
• Siyabonga Twala, who captivated audiences as Mpiyakhe Zungu in Isibaya, one of the channel’s earliest and most iconic dramas.
• Lorcia Cooper, who shares her raw and powerful journey through Lockdown, a series that redefined female-led storytelling.
• ProVerb, whose presence on Idols SA made him a household name and a symbol of Mzansi Magic’s commitment to music and talent discovery.
• Dawn Thandeka King, whose unforgettable roles on shows like Diepcity, have made her a pillar of local drama.
• Lawrence Maleka, who rose from Mzansi Magic’s Clash of the Choirs to become one of the country’s most dynamic presenters and actors.
• Mandla Ngcongwane, the creative force behind some of the channel’s most daring and innovative productions
It also features insights from former channel directors Yolisa Phahle, Reneilwe Sema, and Nomsa Philiso (now CEO of General Entertainment), along with a tribute to the late NK Mabaso, whose legacy helped shape the channel’s bold beginnings and its evolution into a cultural powerhouse.
Mzansi Magic 15th Anniversary Documentary is more than a celebration, it’s a love letter to South African storytelling, talent and the audiences who made it all possible.
Tune in:
Part 1:
Saturday 26 July at 18:00 on the Mzansi15 Pop Up channel (DStv Channel 196)
and on Sunday 27 July at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161)
Part 2:
Saturday 2 August at 18:00 on the Mzansi15 Pop Up channel (DStv Channel 196) and
Sunday 03 August at 17:00. Mzansi Magic (Dstv channel 161)