MZANSI Has Spoken: Isibaya Reigns Supreme in Mzansi Magic’s 15th Birthday Competition
The iconic telenovela Isibaya has once again captured the hearts of South Africans, winning the highest number of public votes in Mzansi Magic’s 15th birthday viewer competition.
Fans will be thrilled to know that Isibaya returns to screens from Monday, 22 September at 6:30 pm as part of the channel’s birthday celebrations, giving audiences a chance to relive the drama, passion, and power that made it a household favourite.
Over the past few weeks, viewers were invited to vote for their favourite shows. From the very first round, Isibaya dominated, raking in 23.1% of the overall votes — a clear sign that fans across Mzansi remain loyal to the series that delivered unforgettable family feuds, powerful isiZulu traditions, and the intense drama of warring taxi dynasties.
Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net, said:
"It was a cultural phenomenon that had its finger on the pulse of Mzansi local television. As we celebrate 15 years of Mzansi Magic, it warms our hearts to see our audiences celebrating the stories that became part of their lives."
The campaign has also celebrated the stars who made Isibaya iconic, including Siyabonga Thwala (Mpiyakhe Zungu), Bheki Mkhwane (Samson Ndlovu), Nomzamo Mbatha (Thandeka Zungu), Celeste Ntuli (Siphokazi Zungu), and Thembi Nyandeni (Mkabayi Zungu). Fans also paid tribute to late legends Menzi Ngubane (Judas Ngwenya), Andile Gumbi (Zweli Shezi), and Mam’ Nandi Nyembe (Gog’ Mkhithi), whose contributions to the show will never be forgotten.
Since its premiere on 18 March 2013, Isibaya ran for eight successful seasons until 2021, collecting over 50 awards, including SAFTAs and Royalty Soapie Awards. With multiple Best Soapie wins and outstanding acting honours, the series has cemented itself as one of the most celebrated telenovelas in South African television history.
Produced by The Bomb! Productions, Isibaya is set to once again light up Mzansi Magic screens, reminding viewers why it remains one of the greatest local stories ever told.
The first round of winners in the birthday viewer competition will be announced on Friday,
Follow Us on Twitter
