The stars of Umlilo introducing the series at the e.tv Upfronts on Thursday, 13 November 2014:
Daniel Hadebe, Nomzamo Mbatha and Nokuthula Ledwaba.
Umlilo is a new e.tv drama series that explores a polygamous marriage and the interpersonal dramas of a family in a state of flux. The series follows the Simelane's, a moderately affluent Johannesburg family headed by the dynamic patriarch Mnqobi, a self-made man in his 40s, who has two wives.
The drama stars three of Mzansi's most talented actresses, Nomzamo Mbatha, Gcina Mkhize and Rhythm City's
Nokuthula Ledwaba. The stellar male cast includes, Hamilton Dhlamini, Daniel Hadebe and Thato Molamu.
Mnqobi Simelane (Hamilton Dlamini) has two wives: the first wife, Cebisile (Gcina Mkhize), is a childhood sweetheart from his hometown in KwaZulu Natal with whom he has two daughters.
Second wife, Dumile (Nokuthula Ledwaba), is a much younger City girl who has no children yet, although Mnqobi is yearning for a son. Cebisile and Dumile are very different from one another. While Cebisile is a traditionalist, Dumile is a modern City girl.
However, despite their differences, the two women live a relatively amicable life. Soon, the peace and equilibrium of the Simelane’s household is in imminent danger when Mnqobi drops a bombshell which shatters the peace of the family. He introduces his possible 3rd wife-to-be: Khwezi (Nomzamo Mbatha).
“We are proud of this bold new drama series and hope that our viewers will enjoy the intrigue and entertaining plot. The series will be an authentic showcase of South African culture, therefore audiences must expect mystique, subtle sophistication with modern and rich traditionally textured storylines. This is an ambitious project that will resonate across all rural and urban markets,” said Monde Twala, Managing Director for e.tv: Channels Division.
According to the producer, Bianca Isaac of Quizzical Pictures, this is a dark, brooding Zulu drama about a polygamous household who get more than they bargained for. “Against the backdrop of this grand series arc, we will also examine the more mundane dramas and comedies of life in a polygamous family: the petty jealousy, irritating squabbles, buried resentment and deep-seated issues that will not remain suppressed,” said Isaac.
Umlilo
offers both a heart-stopping mystery and a deeply affecting family drama. Don’t miss it on Monday
, 9 February 2015 at 9PM on e.tv.