Netflix’s ‘The Polygamist’ Stars Shine On Globacom-Sponsored CNN African Voices
By Rashidat O. Okunlade | Lagos
The power couple behind Netflix’s hit telenovela, The Polygamist, Gugu Gumede and S’Dumo Mtshali, step into the international spotlight this week as featured guests on CNN International’s African Voices, a programme proudly sponsored by Nigerian digital telecommunications giant, Globacom.
The 30-minute special, hosted by CNN anchor Larry Madowo, offers viewers an intimate glimpse into the personal and professional lives of the actors who have captivated global audiences with their portrayal of a marriage unravelling under the weight of infidelity and polygamy.
A Global Phenomenon with African Roots
The Polygamist, a 22-episode “supernovela” adapted from Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi’s acclaimed novel of the same name, follows the turbulent story of Jonasi Gomora (Mtshali), a self-made CEO whose insatiable lust and web of secret relationships threaten to destroy the picture-perfect marriage he shares with his wife, Joyce (Gumede).
Since its release on 12 June 2026, the series has become a global sensation, reaching No. 2 worldwide and claiming the No. 1 spot in 16 countries, including the United States. The series has been praised for its gripping narrative of betrayal, intrigue, and the consequences of power and greed.
A Candid Conversation on Fame, Typecasting, and African Storytelling
Filmed in Johannesburg, the interview sees Gumede and Mtshali open up about their personal journeys, the challenges of navigating fame, and the persistent issue of typecasting in the industry. They also advocate for better protections and improved welfare for actors across the continent.
Reflecting on the series’ unexpected global success, Mtshali told CNN, “The fact that it blew up this big across Africa, and then the United States, and then Europe, that was a big surprise for us.” Gumede added, “Every new day you’d wake up and it was like a new country had discovered it”.
The actors also offered insight into the deeper themes of the show. Mtshali argued that the series resonates because its themes reach far beyond polygamy itself. “As long as there’s someone in power who’s able to oppress another person… that’s Jonasi,” he explained. Gumede added that the series sparked crucial conversations about relationships, accountability, and personal empowerment.
Gumede, who studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles, is no stranger to success. She is widely recognised for her roles as Mandisa in Generations, one of South Africa’s most successful shows and as Mamlambo, the prophetess in Uzalo, the country’s most-viewed television programme.
Her co-star, 43-year-old S’Dumo Mtshali, first came to national prominence after winning the SABC1 reality competition Class Act in 2010. He secured his first leading role the same year in the SABC1 drama series Intersexions. His extensive filmography includes Inside Story (2011), Avenged (2013), iNumber Number: Jozi Gold (2023), and The 4 of Us (2025), among others.
Looking to the future, Gumede expressed ambitious hopes for African storytelling. “We’ve seen how big this can be. We can’t keep playing small. We’ve seen how far we can go with our storytelling,” she told CNN .
Broadcast Details
This special double-cast episode of African Voices, sponsored by Globacom, will premiere on Saturday, 25 July 2026 at 8:00 a.m. on DSTV Channel 401.
Repeats will air at the following times:
Saturday, 25 July: 11:00 a.m.
Sunday, 26 July: 3:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Monday, 27 July: 3:00 a.m. and 5:45 p.m.
Tuesday, 28 July: 5:45 p.m.
Further repeats continue next week:
Saturday, 1 August: 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Sunday, 2 August: 3:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Monday, 3 August: 3:00 a.m.
