South African thespians and creatives took to their social media pages to applaud multi-award-winning actor, Thembinkosi Mthembu, for how he portrayed his role as King of Abathethwa, Godongwana ka Jobe; who was also known as Dingiswayo.
Thembinkosi was entrusted with the character of Godongwana on the historical series that airs on Mzansi Magic – Shaka iLembe. His industry colleagues agree that he portrayed the character’s prowess with depth and dignity.
Dingiswayo is reported to have died in 1817, after he was killed in one of the clashes with Ndwandwe, reportedly by Zwide, King of the Ndwandwe clan. Few hard facts are known about Dingiswayo, but it is clear that he was dominant during the first two decades of the 19th century.
On Shaka iLembe, Dingiswayo accepted a peace offering from the Ndwandwe clan, which included him marrying Zwide’s daughter , Ntombazana (played by Amanda Seome). Not knowing that the Ndwandwes had ulterior motives, Godongwana slept with Ntombazana who took his semen to her grandmother, Queen Ntombazi (played by Khabonina Qhubeka).
The Ndwandwe clan had an upper hand, leading them to lure Dingiswayo to their kingdom of Gudunkomo using witchcraft, and later brutally killing him. Thembinkosi’s portrayal of Dingiswayo’s last moments moved viewers to tears, with many praising his craft.
His acting skills did not only move the viewers but also left many of his industry colleagues in a state of admiration.
Industry names such as Mondli Makhoba, Bonginkosi ‘Bonko’ Khoza, Desiree Markgraaff and Mbuso Khoza gave him his flowers.
Here is what they had to say:
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The former Adulting actor also bid farewell to the character of Dingiswayo, and described him as a great king, a visionary leader and a man of unwavering honour.
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Also see: Godongwana’s death on ‘Shaka iLembe’ breaks many hearts
