Thembinkosi Mthembu is a renowned South African actor who has captivated audiences with his powerful performances in popular television series. He is best known for his award-winning portrayal of King Dingiswayo in the epic drama Shaka iLembe, which earned him a SAFTA Golden Horn. The talented actor from KwaNdengezi has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated leading men, with roles in The River, Adulting, and Homecoming cementing his status as a household name.
Thembinkosi Mthembu Wikipedia
| Field | Details |
| Full name | Thembinkosi Brian Mthembu |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of birth | 31 July 1994 |
| Age | 30 years old (as of November 2025) |
| Place of birth | KwaNdengezi, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Current residence | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Ethnicity | Zulu |
| Zodiac sign | Leo |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexual orientation | Straight |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 165 lbs (75 kg) |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Dark Brown |
| Marital status | Married |
| Spouse | Izolo (married in 2024) |
| Children | 1 daughter (Melokuhle) |
| Alma mater | Durban University of Technology |
| Profession | Actor, Performer |
| Net worth | $100,000 – $500,000 (estimated) |
Who is Thembinkosi Mthembu?
Thembinkosi Mthembu is a South African actor who has risen to prominence through his captivating performances in various television dramas and series. Born and raised in the township of KwaNdengezi near Durban, he pursued his passion for acting despite initial family reservations. His breakthrough came with his role as Mabutho in the telenovela The River, but it was his portrayal of King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe that catapulted him to stardom.
The talented actor has received numerous accolades for his work, including the prestigious SAFTA Best Actor award in 2024. His performances are characterized by depth, authenticity, and emotional intensity. Beyond his acting career, Thembinkosi is a dedicated father and husband who frequently shares insights about balancing family life with his demanding profession.
How Old Is Thembinkosi Mthembu? Age & Birthday
Thembinkosi Mthembu is 30 years old as of November 2025. He was born on 31 July 1994 in KwaNdengezi, a township located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. His zodiac sign is Leo, which is often associated with creativity, passion, and natural leadership qualities that are evident in his performances.
What is Thembinkosi Mthembu’s net worth?
As of 2025, Thembinkosi Mthembu’s net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 and $500,000. The actor has built his fortune through his successful acting career spanning television series, telenovelas, and film projects. His income sources include acting fees from major productions like Shaka iLembe, The River, Adulting, and Homecoming.
His net worth has grown significantly following his award-winning performances and increased demand for his talent. Brand endorsements and appearances at high-profile events have also contributed to his earnings. As one of South Africa’s most sought-after actors, his financial standing continues to improve with each major project.
Thembinkosi Mthembu career
Early beginnings
Thembinkosi Mthembu’s journey to stardom began in KwaNdengezi where he developed an interest in acting during high school drama classes. After completing secondary education, he enrolled at Durban University of Technology, where he obtained a diploma in Drama and Production Studies in 2017. This formal training provided him with the technical skills and confidence needed to pursue professional acting.
Upon graduation, Thembinkosi relocated to Johannesburg to chase his dreams. His early days in the City of Gold were challenging as he worked as a dancer at promotional events for Checkers and Cell C while auditioning for acting roles. His persistence and dedication eventually paid off when he landed his first television role.
Breakthrough roles
Thembinkosi made his television debut in 2019 with a minor role as Junior in the Mzansi Magic drama series The Republic. Though small, this role opened doors for bigger opportunities. He followed this with a recurring role as Shift Manager in MTV Shuga Down South 2 in 2019, which further showcased his versatility.
His major breakthrough came in 2020 when he was cast as Mabutho in the third season of the popular telenovela The River on 1Magic. His portrayal of the complex character earned him widespread recognition and established him as a rising star. Audiences were captivated by his ability to bring depth and authenticity to the villainous role, which he played until 2023.
Rise to stardom
The year 2023 marked a turning point in Thembinkosi’s career when he secured multiple high-profile roles. He starred as Bonga Tembe in the Showmax series Adulting, playing a married man navigating relationships and toxic masculinity. He also appeared as Bandile Biyela in the drama series Outlaws, further demonstrating his range as an actor.
However, his most iconic role came with his portrayal of King Dingiswayo in the epic historical drama Shaka iLembe. His powerful performance as the legendary Mthethwa king resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. The role showcased his ability to embody historical figures with dignity and authenticity, earning him four SAFTA nominations in 2024.
Recent projects and achievements
In 2025, Thembinkosi continued his impressive trajectory with roles in two telenovelas. He starred in Champions as Sbusiso Ferrari and joined the cast of Homecoming, produced by Tshedza Pictures, playing the role of Sifiso Kubheka, a police officer and traditional healer. The series premiered on Mzansi Wethu in July 2025 and has been well-received by viewers.
His versatility extends beyond contemporary roles to historical and dramatic characters, making him one of the most sought-after actors in South African television. He has also appeared in the film Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu and the short film Ngeculo, further expanding his filmography.
Awards and recognition
Thembinkosi Mthembu’s talent has been recognized with several prestigious awards and nominations. In October 2024, he won the Best Actor award at the 18th South African Film and Television Awards for his outstanding portrayal of King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe. This was his first Golden Horn award, marking a significant milestone in his career.
He also won the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and TV Award for Best Actor in August 2024. Beyond acting awards, Thembinkosi was honored with the Hunk of the Year award at the Feather Awards and received the People’s Choice Award at the GQ Men of the Year Awards in 2023, recognizing his popularity and appeal.
His four nominations at the 2024 SAFTAs demonstrated his exceptional work across multiple projects, making him one of the most nominated individual actors at that year’s ceremony. These accolades have solidified his position as one of South Africa’s finest acting talents.
Is Thembinkosi Mthembu married? Wife and relationship status
Thembinkosi Mthembu is married to his long-time partner, Izolo. The couple celebrated their traditional wedding ceremony (umembeso) in 2024, marking the formalization of their union. Thembinkosi has been relatively private about his relationship, but he occasionally shares glimpses of his family life on social media.
In interviews, Thembinkosi has spoken about how his marriage has influenced his acting, particularly in portraying married characters like Bonga Tembe in Adulting Season 3. He credits his wife for providing valuable insights into communication and partnership dynamics that enhanced his performance. The actor describes fatherhood and marriage as his greatest roles yet, ones that continue to teach him invaluable lessons.
Before marrying Izolo, Thembinkosi was in a relationship with Nonsindiso, with whom he shares his daughter. Though that relationship ended, he has maintained a positive co-parenting relationship for the sake of their child.
Thembinkosi Mthembu children
Thembinkosi Mthembu is the proud father of one daughter named Melokuhle. She was born in 2018, making her approximately 7 years old as of 2025. The actor frequently expresses his love and devotion to his daughter, describing fatherhood as one of his most cherished experiences.
Despite his busy acting schedule, Thembinkosi makes time to be present in Melokuhle’s life. He has shared heartwarming videos and photos with his look-alike daughter on social media, with fans often commenting on their striking resemblance. The actor balances his career demands with quality family time, ensuring his daughter feels loved and supported.
In interviews, Thembinkosi has mentioned that becoming a father changed his perspective on life and influenced his choice of roles. He hopes to be a positive example for Melokuhle and show her the importance of hard work, dedication, and following one’s dreams.
Thembinkosi Mthembu siblings and family background
Thembinkosi Mthembu comes from a family of five siblings. He is one of the Mthembu siblings, which include his brothers Luthando Mthembu, Philani Mthembu, Anele Mthembu, and his sister Vee Mthembu. The siblings have gained attention on social media, particularly TikTok, where they create entertaining content together as the “Mthembu Boyz.”
Luthando Mthembu, also known as “BU,” became a household name after appearing on Big Brother Mzansi and has since built his own career in the entertainment industry. The brothers share a close bond and support each other’s endeavors. Thembinkosi was raised primarily by his mother in KwaNdengezi, who encouraged his educational pursuits even when his family initially had reservations about his acting ambitions.
Tragically, Thembinkosi lost a sister in 2019, an experience he has described as deeply painful. Despite this loss, he remains close to his surviving siblings and often celebrates family milestones together. The actor has credited his humble upbringing in the township for keeping him grounded despite his rising fame.
Thembinkosi Mthembu height and weight
Thembinkosi Mthembu stands 5 feet 9 inches tall, which is approximately 175 centimeters. He weighs approximately 165 pounds, equivalent to about 75 kilograms. The actor maintains a fit physique, which was particularly important for his role as King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe, where he underwent intensive warrior training.
For the historical drama, Thembinkosi participated in a rigorous fitness program designed to transform the cast into believable Zulu warriors. The training involved tracking body weight and measurements weekly through a mobile app, ensuring actors achieved the authentic physical appearance required for their roles. His dedication to physical preparation demonstrates his commitment to delivering authentic performances.
Thembinkosi Mthembu on social media
Thembinkosi Mthembu maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Instagram, where he has over 616,000 followers as of 2025. His Instagram handle is @thembinkosi__mthembu, where he shares behind-the-scenes content from his acting projects, family moments, and personal reflections. His bio reads “Nice. Very nice.. Actor:TV” followed by his professional email address.
Through his social media platforms, fans get glimpses of his life beyond acting, including his fashion choices, travels, and advocacy work. He uses his platform to promote South African pride and culture, frequently posting about his work in locally produced content. His engaging content has made him a favorite among fans who appreciate his authenticity and accessibility.
Thembinkosi’s growing social media influence has also made him attractive to brands for partnerships and endorsements. He has collaborated with various companies and attended high-profile events like the Hollywoodbets Durban July, where he dressed in an outfit inspired by his Shaka iLembe role.
Fast facts about Thembinkosi Mthembu
- Thembinkosi originally wanted to play soccer before discovering his passion for acting during high school drama classes.
- He worked as a promotional dancer at Checkers and Cell C events before landing his first acting role in The Republic.
- His role as King Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe required him to undergo intensive physical training to portray a Zulu warrior authentically.
- Thembinkosi won four awards in 2024 alone, including SAFTA Best Actor, Simon Mabhunu Sabela Best Actor, Hunk of the Year at Feather Awards, and People’s Choice at GQ Men of the Year Awards.
- He is the most nominated individual actor at the 2024 SAFTAs, receiving four nominations across different categories for his work in Shaka iLembe, The River, and Outlaws.
- Thembinkosi’s surname “Mthembu” is one of the most prominent Zulu clan names in South Africa, and he takes pride in his cultural heritage.
- He celebrated his traditional wedding ceremony (umembeso) in 2024, formalizing his marriage to his partner Izolo.
- His daughter Melokuhle is often described by fans as his “mini-me” due to their striking resemblance.
- Before pursuing acting full-time, Thembinkosi considered careers in other fields but ultimately followed his passion for performance.
- He shares his acting journey and creates TikTok content with his siblings, particularly his brother Luthando, who also works in entertainment.
Read more: Mpumelelo Mseleku: Biography, age, net worth, wives, children, career, height, latest news
Wrapping up
Thembinkosi Mthembu’s journey from a township in KwaNdengezi to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated actors is truly inspiring. His dedication to his craft, combined with his natural talent, has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. As he continues to take on diverse roles in projects like Homecoming and Champions, his star continues to rise. With a loving family supporting him and a bright future ahead, Thembinkosi Mthembu remains a shining example of what determination and passion can achieve in the South African entertainment industry.
References
- News24. “Getting to know Thembinkosi Brian Mthembu“.
- Showmax Stories. “Thembinkosi Mthembu named Best Actor at SAFTAs for Shaka iLembe“.
- The Citizen. “Thembinkosi Mthembu: From DUT student to one of SA’s leading men on screen“.
- News24. “From KwaNdengezi to SAFTA glory: Thembinkosi Mthembu’s humble star’s rise to fame“.
- IOL Entertainment. “Meet the stars of ‘Homecoming’: Thembinkosi Mthembu and Mpume Six Nyamane lead the telenovela charge“.
- Wikipedia. “Thembinkosi Mthembu“.
Sarah Mitchell – Founder & Editor-in-Chief. With 6 years covering entertainment for outlets like Entertainment Weekly and People, Sarah brings deep industry knowledge and an extensive network of sources. She’s interviewed over 500 celebrities, covered 12 Oscar ceremonies, and has an uncanny ability to spot fake stories from miles away.
