Mpumi Mpama on 'Empini': where television excellence meets thrilling drama

IOL News

25-06-2025

Mpumi Mpama features alongside a star-studded cast on 'Empini',
Image: X
Since May last year, 'Empini' has been captivating viewers with its riveting take on the dangerous world of private security.
The local crime drama centres around Ndoni Themba, played by Nambitha Ben-Mazwi, a deeply troubled private security bodyguard who is in search of answers. But her journey takes her into the perilous world of the industry, where uncertainty and betrayal are around the corner.
The award-winning actress, who is acclaimed for her roles on 'Savage Beauty', 'Kings of Joburg' and 'Happiness Ever After', shares the screen with a star-studded cast.
This includes Mpumi Mpama, Nqobile Sipamla, Owen Sejake, Charmaine Mtinta, Angela Sithole, Sparky Xulu and Amahle Khumalo.
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Ben-Mazwi explained during a previous interview with 'Independent Media Entertainment' that 'we all put our blood, sweat and tears into this show.'
'We all share the same vision, we want this show to be a success, and it was so heartwarming for me to see everyone being so invested in this story.'
She also spoke about her pride after landing her first leading role in an action series with 'Empini.'
'I've been praying for an action role, and I really wanted to get into a completely different genre, which I haven't done ye,t and I was hungry for this, so I believe that timing is everything,' she said.
Mpumi Mpama is one of the stars on the local crime drama, 'Empini.'
Image: X
Meanwhile, Mpama, who replaced Siyabonga Thwala on the 52-episode Showmax Original in January, stars as Khaya Bhodoza, Ndoni 's mentor and a well-known businessman and political heavyweight.
The 48-year-old described being cast in 'Empini' as 'Mission accomplished'.
'As an artist when you look at the complete canvas you feel the fulfilment of the work put in,' he said during an interview with 'Independent Media Entertainment.'
When he was asked why he decided to be part of this series, Mpama said that he was excited at bringing a new life to a character.
'Every opportunity that presents itself to me as a challenge is well accepted because that gives me a field to play in and to express my talent to the enjoyment of the viewers.'
The actor, who hails from Soweto in Johannesburg, has a long list of starring roles to his name.
He made a name for himself in several South African soapies such as 'Generation: The Legacy', "Rhythm City' and 'Saints and Sinners', while also shining in productions which include 'Isibaya', 'Laduma' 'Housekeepers', 'Legacy' and 'Queendom'.
And while also working as a presenter, voice artist, poet, producer and a director, Mpama is loving his time on 'Empini.'
He explained that he is delighted to work with such an esteemed cast and crew.
'I think that it is so amazing when everyone invests in their characters,' he said.
'It makes putting together the whole show easier.'
Mpama is also encouraged by the love that the show, as well as his character, has been receiving.
'It's amazing and well received as expected according to the task given to bring it to life. It got people asking for more.'
The actor explained that 'Empini' has been resonating with viewers from all walks of life because of the universal themes it unpacks, which he believes to be 'loyalty, betrayal, secrets and brutality.'
On why he thinks 'Empini' has been such a television hit, Mpama said: 'Simply because it went out of the predictable and ordinary.'
He added: 'In South Africa, we need more shows that will engage the viewer and leave them in expectation.'
Meanwhile, after having established himself as a leading industry professional, Mpama has worked with scores of different people during his various projects over the decades.
But he insisted that 'Empini' has been a truly unique experience for him.
'What has surprised me the most about my time on the show so far has been the intensity of an action show.'