From the beloved LaZo to the controversial Mabandlas, local television continues to captivate audiences through memorable on-screen relationships
By Mapaballo Borotho
Over the years, South Africans have fallen in love with iconic on-screen couples such as Tau Mohale and Karabo Moroka, Sibusiso and Ntombi Dlomo, as well as Mqhele and Hlomu Zulu.
On-screen couples have always been one of the ingredients that make local television so enjoyable, and they continue to keep viewers coming back for more.
Whether you’re in a relationship, have been in one before, or are simply a hopeless romantic, there’s something about watching two characters fall in love, overcome challenges, and navigate life’s ups and downs that keeps audiences emotionally invested.
These relationships entertain us, make us dream, spark debates on social media, and sometimes even give us hope that true love exists.
Of course, not every on-screen relationship is one we aspire to have. Some couples leave us frustrated, while others have us rooting for them every step of the way.
Here are some of the couples currently keeping Mzansi glued to their screens:
LaZo – Mzansi’s favourite power couple?
Lazarus and Zoleka Ngcukana, affectionately known by fans as “LaZo”, have been on everyone’s lips for months.
The husband-and-wife duo from Inimba has won over viewers with their undeniable chemistry and relatable portrayal of a modern marriage.
Despite facing their fair share of challenges, including Lazarus’ fertility struggles and the lingering drama from Zoleka’s previous marriage, the couple has remained one of the most beloved relationships on television.
Fans can’t stop talking about how well they complement each other, their emotional connection, and their unwavering support for one another. It also doesn’t hurt that they’re both successful, wealthy, and educated tech gurus.
The fan-favourite couple is brought to life by the talented Loyiso MacDonald and the stunning Lunathi Mampofu.
Bahumi and Zwelakhe – A love story that divides viewers
The second couple that many viewers initially believed would rival LaZo’s popularity is none other than traditional Zulu businessman Zwelakhe Mkhize and the love of his life, Bahumi Motaung.
Like many fairytale romances, theirs was a case of love at first sight, with everything from their relationship to marriage happening at lightning speed.
While the couple remains popular among viewers, some social media users have recently questioned whether the chemistry between the two characters feels natural, with others describing the relationship as somewhat forced.
Still, Zwelakhe continues to be admired by many viewers who see him as the ideal partner – handsome, intentional, respectful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
The couple is portrayed by the talented Vuyo Sibiya and Rorisang Mohapi Grootboom.
Hlathi and Thumeka – The couple viewers love to hate
And last but certainly not least are the Mabandlas.
Who doesn’t know Mthetho Joseph “Hlathi” Mabandla and his longtime partner, now wife, Thumeka Limise Mabandla?
Their relationship has had viewers talking since the very first episodes of Inimba.
From Thumeka spending two decades waiting to be recognised as Hlathi’s wife, to finally getting her dream wedding, and later enduring the heartbreaking loss of their son Likamva, their journey has been nothing short of emotional.
Yet despite their history, Hlathi and Thumeka remain one of the most controversial couples on television.
Their villainous ways, endless drama, and cheating scandals have made them one of the most talked-about and often most criticised relationships on screen.
These memorable characters are played by the talented Zenande Mfenyana and Sisa Hewana.
Whether we love them, hate them, or simply can’t stop talking about them, these are just some of the relationships keeping South Africans glued to their screens, flooding social media with opinions, and feeding the fantasies of hopeless romantics everywhere.
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