THE FUSE

Season 9 of Uthando neS’thembu has become one of the most talked-about shows in Mzansi right now. Since its premiere a couple of months ago, it has trended every week on X, keeping viewers engaged and constantly talking. The latest season has now been extended by four additional episodes and will air until 14 May 2026.

Currently airing on Mzansi Magic, the popular reality series follows the lives of the Mseleku family and their polygamous marriage. This season, the family has opened up more than before and it is clear that things have shifted. The dynamics feel different and viewers are starting to see new sides to the relationships within the household.

At the centre of many of these conversations is Mbali MaNgwabe Mseleku, Musa’s fourth wife, who has previously expressed her intention to leave the marriage after he shared his interest in taking on a fifth wife. So when season 9 premiered, many viewers were surprised to see that she was still with Musa and actively working on their relationship.

We recently caught up with Mbali, who is also a nurse and she shared what it has been like navigating fame, being on the show and everything in between.

How has your life changed since filming the show?

Being on the show has definitely changed my life in many ways. Before the cameras, I lived a very private life, but now people feel like they know my family and me. It has opened doors and given me a platform, but it has also meant learning to live with public opinion. I’ve had to grow a thick skin and remember who I am outside of television.

How do your colleagues/patients react to you being a reality television star?

Most of the reactions are actually positive and quite funny. People are often surprised to see me in a professional setting because they only know me from television. My patients are usually curious and sometimes they ask questions about the show, but when I’m at work, I’m focused on doing my job and helping people.

What’s your favourite thing about being on the show?

My favourite thing about being on the show is that people get to see different sides of a polygamous family. For me personally, it’s also a chance to show that I am an individual within this marriage. I think viewers have seen that I’m someone who speaks her mind and stands up for what she believes in.

What are some of the negative things that come with being on a very popular show?

The hardest part is that people judge you based on a small part of your life that they see on television. They don’t always see the full picture or the context behind certain moments. Sometimes the criticism can be harsh, especially on social media.

How do you maintain your individuality within a polygamous setup?

For me, it’s important to remember that being a wife is just one part of who I am. I’m also a mother, a professional and a woman with my own views and values. I don’t believe in losing myself in the marriage, so I make sure I keep my own identity and voice.

How do you balance motherhood with your personal goals?

My children are always my priority. I try to create a stable and loving environment for them while also pursuing my own goals. It’s not always easy, but being organised and making intentional time for both my family and my personal growth helps me maintain that balance. Many viewers have seen how important it is for me to spend quality time with my children.

What have viewers misunderstood about you?

I think some viewers misunderstand my personality, because I’m honest and direct, it can sometimes come across as anger or negativity. In reality, I’m just someone who believes in expressing how I feel instead of pretending everything is perfect.

What parts of your life and marriage do you wish you could keep private?

I would love for my children to have more privacy. Being on television means that a lot of family dynamics become public and sometimes those are things that should stay within the family.

How does social media and criticism affect you?

At first, it was difficult because people can be very harsh online. Over time, I’ve learned not to take everything personally. Social media can be a powerful platform, but it’s important to remember that not every comment reflects one’s reality.

When you’re not filming, how do you like to spend time with your loved ones?

When the cameras are off, I enjoy simple things, spending time with my children, having quiet moments with family and extended family, and focusing on the things that keep me grounded. Those moments remind me that life is much bigger than what people see on television.

Uthando neS’thembu airs every Wednesday and Thursday on Mzansi Magic at 20:00.

Another show that has taken Mzansi by storm is The Makhenes, which airs every Sunday at 19:00. The reality series offers an intimate and unfiltered look into the lives of the well-known South African musical family, led by veteran musician and activist Dr Blondie Makhene, alongside his daughter, actress and musician Letoya Makhene.

Spanning three generations and more than five decades, the show dives into their legacy while exploring deeply personal themes such as family, fame, addiction and healing.

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