BET Africa Unveils Queendom – A Daily Drama Inspired By Authentic African Royal Legacy
Two Worlds Collide And Strong Women Shape Their Own Destiny
BET Africa imagines a more inclusive future with a riveting new daily drama, Queendom. Coming to DStv channel 129 soon, the new scripted daily drama celebrates the strength, resilience and power of women who shape their own destinies.
Following the success of Isono and Redemption, BET Africa’s latest original daily drama is inspired by authentic African royal legacy. Rooted in destiny and centred around the life of Nthandokayise Mthombeni, played by Linda Mtoba, the story presents a world in which women rise, flip patriarchy on its head and reign.
Queendom explores themes of cultural heritage, tradition, fate, ancestry, power struggles, identity and survival. It tells the story of Nthandokayise (Linda Mtoba), a maverick community leader in Tsakane, who discovers that she is the rightful heir to the throne of Khahlamba Kingdom. Her mother, Tholakele Mthombeni, played by Sindi Dlathu, has been keeping this secret from her for 30 years.
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & GM Paramount Africa & Lead BET International states,
“We are thrilled to present Queendom to our audiences. This daily scripted offering is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and inspiring narratives that Africa has to offer. Beyond entertainment, Queendom aims to inspire change. Our hope is that it will spark conversations, challenging societal norms, as we explore themes of social justice, empowerment and equality. Queendom is set in South Africa but draws from the stories and historic moments from across the continent. Viewers can look forward to a majestic experience that celebrates Culture and the Black excellence that defines BET.”
Queendom brings South African acting royalty to TV screens with a distinguished cast including Hamilton Dlamini as King Banzi Khahlamba, Mduduzi Mabaso as Prince Andile Khahlamba, Pallance Dladla as Prince Mcebo Khahlamba and Dawn Thandeka King as Queen MaNdlovu. Other prestigious cast include Silindile Nodangala, Themba Ndaba, Mike Mvelase, Lehasa Moloi, Nhlanhla Kunene and Patrick Mofokeng.
Reflecting on her role, Linda Mtoba says,
“I am thrilled to be part of Queendom, a story that goes beyond the ordinary and delves into the complexities of love, destiny, and the power within. Ntando is not just a character; she’s a symbol of the strength all African women possess. In her story, we witness the collision of two worlds, the power of destiny and the rise of a queen. I can’t wait for viewers to embark on this journey with us.”
Sindi Dlathu who plays Tholakele Mthombeni, a resilient and protective mother to Nthando says,
“Taking on the role of Tholakele in Queendom has been a profound experience. Tholakele beautifully captures the essence of familial bonds, empowerment, and the strength of a mother’s love. Mzansi is in for a treat, and I am excited to be part of this extraordinary project. It’s an important story to tell.”
The multitalented musician and actor Jabulani “Sjava” Hadebe is another notable member of the Queendom cast, playing Prince Mkhuseli Khahlamba, the first born son of King Banzi. The award-winning artist, known for hits like ‘Ekseni’ and ‘uThando,’ has crafted the title track of Queendom. The song is titled Wena Wamanzi promises to resonate with the emotional depth of this powerful story. The acclaimed artist notes that,
“Being a part of Queendom has been a beautiful experience. I’m honoured to be part of something that pays homage to African culture and I’m honoured to have been able to contribute a piece of my music to the narrative.”
Cast and Crew:
- Production Company: Clive Morris Productions
- Directors: Andries van der Merwe (Head Director), Athi Patela and Menga Nhlabathi (Series Directors)
- Head Writer: Lunga Radebe
- Director of Photography: Chuck Manganyi
- Show Runner: Sayitsheni Mdakhi
- Wardrobe: Phindile Mlambo
- Make Up: Mmabatho Malinda
- Key Cast: Linda Mtoba, Sindi Dlathu, Hamilton Dlamini, Mduduzi Mabaso, Pallance Dladla, Dawn Thandeka King, Jabulani “Sjava” Hadebe, Slindile Nodangala, Nhlanhla Kunene and Patrick Mofokeng, Themba Ndaba, Mike Mvelase, Sibulele Gcilitshana and Samkelo Ndlovu.
Synopsis:
Ntandokayise Mthombeni, a maverick community leader in Tsakane, discovers that she is the rightful heir to the throne of the Khahlamba Kingdom. She must overcome the ruthless and immoral Prince Mcebo in a life-threatening battle to fulfil her destiny as Queen.
Premise:
Ntando, a resilient and street-smart law student, battles financial hardships while juggling multiple jobs to support her mother, step-father and loving boyfriend in Tsakane. Unbeknownst to her, she is the long-lost heir to the throne of the Khahlamba Kingdom. Her mother, Tholakele, had kept this a secret, having fled for her life from the Khahlamba Kingdom over 30 years ago. Hurt that he is not next in line, Prince Mcebo, is set to destroy the kingdom through his greed and corruption. Will Ntando awaken to the significance of saving her people and the sacred life-sustaining spring water at the heart of the Khahlamba Kingdom?
Welcome to Queendom, where two worlds collide and destiny will find you. Don’t miss a moment of this regal adventure, coming soon to BET Africa (DStv channel 129). Engage in the royal journey on social media using the hashtag #BETQueendom and keep an eye on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for sneak peeks of what’s to come.
