Empini S1

Multi-award winner Nambitha Ben-Mazwi is starring in her first Showmax Original, Empini, opposite three-time SAFTA winner Siyabonga Thwala.  

Set in the dangerous world of the private security industry, the 52-episode series is a high-stakes, action-packed drama about Ndoni Themba (Ben-Mazwi), a deeply troubled private security bodyguard in search of answers.

Thwala plays her mentor, Khaya Bhodoza: a prominent businessman and political stalwart. 

Ben-Mazwi, nicknamed Lady Nam by her fans, was named Hot Chick of the Year at the Feather Awards and Most Stylish Performing Artist in Film/TV at the SA Style Awards. A Global Citizen ambassador, she was hand-picked by Beyoncé to appear in Black Is King and has had trending roles in the likes of The Queen, The Estate, Scandal, Broken Vows and Doubt.

Thwala has won Best Actor SAFTAs for his iconic roles as Mpiyakhe on Isibaya (which also earned him a Royalty Soapie Award), Vusi Zwane on Scandal!, and Musa on Intersexions. He’s also a fan-favourite from the likes of eHostela, The River, and The Republic. 

Empini’s all-star cast also includes industry legend Owen Sejake (Tsotsi, Beat the Drum) as General Moeti, SAFTA winner Charmaine Mtinta (Yizo Yizo, How To Ruin Christmas, Isono, and Makoti) as Dorah Themba, and SAFTA and Africa Movie Academy Award nominee Neo Ntlatleng (Zone 14, Soul City) as Ghathuso Moeti, not to mention the likes of Angela Sithole, Sparky Xulu, Amahle Khumalo and Ernest Ndlovu.

All the episodes are available to bingewatch.