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IOL News
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Mpumi Mpama on 'Empini': where television excellence meets thrilling drama
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. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 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.'
Fashion United
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion United
'House of McQueen' off-Broadway production to open ahead of NYFW
A new off-Broadway production centering on the life of the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen is set to debut just ahead of New York Fashion Week. Named House of McQueen, the show is written by Darren Cloud and directed by Sam Helfrich, with Gary James, the nephew of the late designer, serving as creative director. A retelling of McQueen's life, the production aims to highlight his groundbreaking work and the personal journey behind it, which is marked by triumphs, challenges, and an enduring creative legacy that will likely resonate with a new generation. 'We are trying to touch on issues that are relevant to a younger generation, issues like bullying, rejection, homophobia, depression, and even suicide in the hope that this is a healing story,' said Rick Lazes, executive producer of the show, in an interview with Vogue. For James, who worked in McQueen's menswear department for seven years and was responsible for designing the brand's now-iconic show invitations, regarded as collector's items today, preserving and honoring his uncle's enduring legacy is vitally important. 'A lot of the younger generation don't really understand the person behind the brand,' said James to Vogue. More than ten years in the making, the production joins the growing list of retrospectives launched since Alexander McQueen's passing 15 years ago. For example, the Costume Institute's landmark 2011 exhibition, Savage Beauty, celebrated his visionary work, followed by Dana Thomas's 2015 biography, which explored his meteoric rise and personal struggles. The 2018 documentary directed by Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui took a closer look at his creative genius, while the enduring impact of his muse and patron, Isabella Blow, will soon be revisited in the forthcoming biopic The Queen of Fashion. Following the show's premiere in early September, complementary production is set to launch in Los Angeles a few weeks later. Titled Provocateur, the immersive installation leverages advanced technologies, including holography and projection mapping, to chronicle pivotal chapters of McQueen's life, from his early years at home and studies at Central Saint Martins to his formative experience in a Savile Row tailor shop, according to co-creator Lazes. The installation includes an interactive virtual component developed in partnership with Dressx, allowing visitors to digitally 'try on' archival looks from McQueen's Horn of Plenty and No.9 collections. Kering, the parent company of the McQueen brand, which dropped the late designer and founder's first name from its marketing following the arrival of creative director Sean McGirr last year, has no official involvement in either projects. However, a selection of archival designs by McQueen, generously loaned by private collectors, will be exhibited in a venue adjacent to the theatre where House of McQueen will run.
IOL News
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Couples who binge together, stay together: 5 unexpected benefits of TV marathons
Studies have shown that engaging in shared activities enhances closeness in romantic relationships. Our relationships are often tested by time constraints, work pressures, and societal expectations, couples are finding creative ways to strengthen their connection. The dynamics of modern dating often reflect a desire for a deeper connection amidst the chaos of everyday life. For many couples, this means finding simple yet meaningful ways to bond. Interestingly, one of the most underrated yet effective bonding activities is binge-watching TV shows together. While the idea may seem trivial, recent research and behavioural studies reveal surprising emotional and relational benefits of this shared pastime. According to when couples sit down to watch TV shows together, it becomes more than just a passive activity. It transforms into a shared adventure filled with laughter, emotions, and even moments of reflection. 1. Creating shared experiences that strengthen bonds Shared experiences are the foundation of emotionally fulfilling relationships. They foster empathy, create lasting memories, and cultivate a sense of togetherness. Watching TV shows as a couple is a readily accessible shared experience that doesn't require elaborate planning or financial strain. Studies have shown that engaging in shared activities enhances closeness in romantic relationships. For couples juggling busy schedules, settling down for a series on Netflix or Showmax can serve as a mini retreat, a chance to reconnect after a long day. Whether it's debating the storyline of Inimba or laughing over the antics in How to Ruin Christmas, these moments become the glue that holds relationships together. 2. Introducing new topics of conversation One of the most mundane yet underestimated challenges in relationships is running out of things to talk about. Watching TV shows together can inject fresh topics into your conversations, breaking the monotony of discussing work, family, or chores. South Africa's diverse cultural landscape offers a unique opportunity to explore shows that feature different perspectives, such as "Blood & Water" or "Savage Beauty". These shows introduce themes of identity, social justice, and relationships, sparking meaningful dialogue. Couples can also engage in playful debates about character decisions or hypothetical scenarios from their favourite series, keeping the relationship dynamic and intellectually stimulating.
TimesLIVE
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Actress Didintle Khunou 'ready to take a chance' on music
Actress Didintle Khunou is venturing into music. Didintle is an award-winning screen, stage and voice actor born in Klerksdorp, North West, who has starred on Savage Beauty, Isono and The Throne. The 32-year-old recently released her debut single Say It. Speaking to TshisaLIVE, Didintle said she's carving her place in the music industry. "I am in a phase of stepping out of my comfort zone. As an actor, that is something we always have to do — but I think this year I was ready, more than ever, to take that risk, to experiment and exercise all my talents. "I've always had a deep love for music, and Say It is a reflection of that passion. It's bold, it's sexy and it's a song that celebrates desire and connection in the most intoxicating way. "I think I have proven my vocal abilities in The Colour Purple and Rocky Horror Picture Show — and I am ready to play, experiment and take a chance."
