Nkalakatha: The Life of Mandoza is a South African biopic drama series which is a dramatization of Mandoza's life from his humble beginnings, his meteoric rise to stardom, and the bittersweet years leading up to his death.
The series shows the human side of the South African icon and pays homage to a man who reigned as a true powerhouse in the South African entertainment scene, leaving an indelible mark during the earlier years of our young democracy.
It's the dawn of South Africa's liberation; big-hearted, impulsive Mduduzi from Zola township dreams of having a home and wants to help his mother and family.
Kwaito is his one-way ticket.
This is a story of a young man with a dream, a personal dream that finds him unprepared and soon overwhelms him.
The dream becomes a nightmare. This is a story of the person behind the superstar Mandoza.
This six-part biopic delves into his emotional and personal struggles in a way that gives a sense of his ‘human' side.
It is the rise of the star, the resilience of a young boy from Soweto and restoration.
The role of Mandoza is played by Wiseman Mncube; Lorraine Moropa plays his wife, Mpho Tshabalala, an integral force behind the realisation of this biopic.
Dawn Thandeka King portrays Nomazwe, capturing the significant moments in Mandoza's journey; Lillian Dube plays Gogo, while Nkosinathi "Mzambiya" Zwane takes on the role of Lollipop.
The series stars Wiseman Mncube, Lorraine Moropa, Lindo Sithole, Mzambiya, Fanele Zulu, Nhlanhla Kunene, Dawn Thandeka King, Dumisani Mbebe and Lillian Dube.
With the guidance and permission of Mpho Tshabalala, Mandoza's widow, who serves as an executive producer, Nkalakatha: The Life of Mandoza offers an authentic portrayal of the legendary musician's life, showcasing his immense talent, resilience and the profound impact he had on countless lives.
The series is a co-production between Biopic Films, Pomegranate Media, BET Africa, the DTIC and executive producers Mpho Tshabalala, who is Mandoza's widow; and Vaughn Eaton, who was Mandoza's manager.
Directed by Zuko Nodada, Nkalakatha: The Life of Mandoza promises to be a journey of inspiration, resilience and the triumph of the human spirit.
The executive producers are Mpho Tshabalala, Vaughn Eaton, Zuko Nodada, Ipuseng Kotsokoane and McMillan Masoka; the series producer is Thandeka Nodada.
The series is directed by Zuko Nodada, Luthando Lungelo Ngcobo and Luthando Mngomezulu; the head writer is Ayanda Halimana.
Music is by Chiskop, Mandoza, Trybe and Oscar Mlangeni.