Industry colleagues give Thembinkosi Mthembu his flowers for stellar performance on Shaka iLembe
Mapaballo Borotho

South African actor Bonko Khoza has publicly praised fellow actor Thembinkosi Mthembu for his exceptional talent and remarkable contribution to the South African entertainment industry.
Affectionately known as King Dingiswayo on Shaka iLembe or Mabutho on the hit soapie The River, Mthembu has won over audiences with his powerful performances and captivating on-screen presence.
His charm has also made him a fan favourite among women, with TikTok users frequently praising the “Zulu King” for both his craft and charisma.
Taking to his Instagram stories, Khoza shared heartfelt words of admiration for Mthembu:
I say it to you every time we cross paths, but I’ll say it again here, loud and proud: I’m your biggest fan. From the moment you stepped onto our screens as Mabutho, I knew we were witnessing something special. You’ve moved from strength to strength, role to role, leaving a legacy of truth, power, and undeniable talent in every performance.
Mthembu made his mark on The River in 2020 and has since secured roles in some of Mzansi’s most popular shows, including Adulting and Outlaws on Showmax, before captivating viewers as King Dingiswayo on Shaka iLembe.
His recent departure from Shaka iLembe left audiences and industry colleagues in awe, with his final performance sparking widespread praise.
Khoza described him as one of the greatest actors of this generation.
You’re not just one of the greatest of our generation, you’re a giant carving your name into the history books of South African storytelling. You’ve inspired me, as an actor and as a man. And you continue to inspire a whole generation.”
Although he has exited Shaka iLembe, Thembinkosi Mthembu continues to grace our screens, now taking on a leading role in Mzansi Wethu’s new soap opera, Homecoming.
READ NEXT: Police link DJ Sumbody’s alleged killers to three more murders, including DJ Vintos



