See the trailer for the new Showmax Original, Ubuthe Uzobuya

Showmax has just dropped the first trailer for Ubuthe Uzobuya, an intervention series designed to support spouses who have been unexpectedly left in their marital homes without any explanation. The show is set to land on 29 October 2024.

The featured individuals grapple with difficult questions from children, family members, and friends regarding their partners’ unexplained departures, often leaving them feeling ashamed and ridiculed.

The Showmax Original aims to assist these individuals in tracking down their missing spouses, who have abandoned their homes to start new lives elsewhere.

Watch the trailer for Ubuthe Uzobuya

As they embark on their quest to find their runaway partners, their hopes are anchored in uncovering the reasons behind their departure and ultimately reuniting with them.

Ubuthe Uzobuya provides a platform for them to ask the crucial question: “What happened? Ubuthe uzobuya?”

Produced by Barkers Media, the creative team behind Shebeen Queens, The Bala Family, and How to Manifest a Man, Ubuthe Uzobuya will be hosted by actor and presenter Tshepo Maseko.

To find out more, we sat down with Mpho Lengane, the executive producer at Barkers Media. 

What inspired Ubuthe Uzobuya?

The inspiration for Ubuthe Uzobuya came during the filming of Ngi Shade Wrong. We uncovered stories of men who had left their homelands for the city in search of better opportunities, often leaving their families behind. Many of these men, along with a few women, shared how they initially sent money home upon arriving in the city. However, as the demands of their work became more taxing, the frequency of their visits home diminished. They found themselves needing someone to care for them, cook, and handle household chores. Before they knew it, the new lives they had built in the city began to feel more worthwhile than those they had left behind.

What interesting stories can viewers expect to see?

Every episode features captivating stories, with a common thread: runaway spouses often find peace in leaving their somewhat comfortable lives for spaces where they feel more appreciated by a new partner. We’ve seen that many men who leave their spouses feel scolded or unappreciated, while women often leave due to infidelity, financial issues, or even physical abuse.

Did any of the participants rekindle their romance?

Yes, we have several stories where runaway spouses returned home. One notable case involved a gentleman who moved from the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg to start fresh with a new lover. He furnished his new home, but when his wife came to retrieve him, they packed all his belongings, and he ultimately moved back with her, leaving behind both his new business and partner.

Why did you choose Tshepo as the presenter?

We auditioned several talented hosts, but Tshepo stood out for his ability to make people feel comfortable and open up quickly. He excels in conflict resolution, possesses a sharp wit, and knows how to lighten the mood, even when tensions are high.

Why should people watch?

Viewers should tune in because the show provides an opportunity for the left-behind spouse to reconnect with their partner and reflect on what may have gone wrong. Ubuthe Uzobuya addresses real issues that many face in our society and explores their far-reaching impacts. Audiences will connect with the participants and relate to the themes presented, making it both an educational and entertaining experience.

Join the conversation: #UbutheUzobuya