Katlego Sekhu
Presley Chweneyagae, famously known as Thuso ‘Cobra’ Mokoena from the multi-award-winning series The River, is set to make a grand return in the highly anticipated spin-off series Cobrizi.
Premiering on Mzansi Magic in March 2025, this 13-episode drama delivers a gritty, heart-wrenching, and ultimately uplifting story of survival, love, and redemption. The show follows Cobra’s efforts to prove his worth as a father to his youngest child while grappling with his turbulent past. Along the way, he unexpectedly discovers love after relocating to inner-city Johannesburg.
However, Cobra’s journey remains far from smooth. Viewers will see the familiar troubled and fiery character they grew to love in The River. Cobra is still a man shaped by hardship, hustling, and anger at a social system he feels has failed him. But as he navigates life’s challenges, his resilience offers a chance for transformation. While his vices—beer, women, and taverns—continue to tempt him, even Cobra can evolve if given a fighting chance.
“Cobra’s story resonated deeply with our Mzansi Magic viewers because it contrasted the glamorous lives of the Dlamini-Dikanas with the struggles of the Mokoenas. It’s a tale of hope, resilience, and the power of community,” says Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net.
Adonisi adds, “Presley brought tremendous depth and humour to the role. This spin-off allows us to delve deeper into Cobra’s world, exploring whether his anger can transform into the tenacity needed to create a better future.”
The series brings back familiar faces from The River, including Thapelo Sebogodi (as Kabzela, Cobra’s best friend), Winnie Ntshaba, and award-winning actress Thembsie Matu (as Ous Sheila). Joining them are Sivenathi Mabuya (Bongiwe), Paul Maila (Rajah), Ishmauel Songo (Peanut), Chrispen Nyathi (Raisin), Thobani Mbhele (Bangkok), and Moliehi Didie Makobane (Teresia).
New talent adds a fresh dynamic, with Siphiwe Radebe (Simphiwe), Kadia Banyini (Nkanyiso), Xolani Mfeka (Bab’ Dladla), and Charmaine Mncwabe (Ama) joining the ensemble cast.
Produced by Tshedza Pictures, Cobrizi promises to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling and complex characters.
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