- South African actor Zamani Mbatha recently achieved a significant milestone at the National Film and TV Awards
- The former Isithembiso star received the Outstanding Performance award
- Numerous users took to social media to express their thoughts on the actor’s accolade
On Monday, 24 November 2025, the known blogger and commentator Musa Khawula excitedly shared on social media that Nomzamo Mbatha’s brother was awarded the Outstanding Performance Award due to his exceptional performance in Shaka iLembe season 2.
This prestigious ceremony took place on Saturday, 22 November 2025, at the Opera Theatre in Pretoria. Shaka iLembe gained significant recognition, as it secured a total of five awards. The feature film The Heart Is A Muscle followed with three accolades.
The Outstanding Contribution to Film & TV Award was presented to four notable figures in the industry: Leon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela, Sello Maake KaNcube, and Dr. Jerry Mofokeng.
The announcement stated:
“Zamani Mbatha wins the Best Performance award for his performance on the second season of Shaka Ilembe at the 2025 National Film and TV Awards.”
See the post below:
Zamani Mbatha wins the Best Performance award for his performance on the second season of Shaka Ilembe at the 2025 National Film and TV Awards. pic.twitter.com/7Bv06901lR
— Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) November 24, 2025
The actor shared his joy with followers on Instagram, expressing his delight over receiving an award:
“Winning my first award feels surreal. Thank you to each and every one who has supported, encouraged, and uplifted me along the way. I’m truly blessed and deeply grateful. Siyabonga.”
See the post below:
Public Responses to Zamani’s Recognition
Following the announcement of his first award, a wave of comments surged on social media expressing public sentiment. Below are some reactions:
@AmIDaDrama noted:
“I think it’s well deserved. He bodied that role. It’s nice seeing him get his accolades without constantly being compared to his sister’s success.”
@n_lori2303 commented:
“I’m not gonna lie, he absolutely did an amazing job for that role, for me, that’s his best role so far.”
@alphy_Tsotetsi remarked:
“Mzilikazi ka Mashobane? King Dingiswayo? Nyengelezi? Queen Ntombazi? The list goes on. At this point, they could have given it to Mc G for his cameo or Robot Boi.”
Actor SK Khoza responded:
“Come on with it, King, congratulations, mkhaya…Having had the honour of working with you, trust and believe you deserve this.”
toysoldier_12 expressed:
“Well deserved bhuti wami 💚🔥🔥👏God bless you, gee and congratulations.”
