Thembinkosi Mthembu, the award-winning actor from Durban, is thrilled to announce that the hit series Adulting is returning for a third season on Showmax. Mthembu, who portrays the character Bonga, has become a fan favorite for his role as the voice of reason among a close-knit group of friends, including Luthando (BU Mthembu), Tsiki Tsiki (Nhlanhla Kunene), and Mpho (Thabiso Rammusi).
Reported by Daily Sun, Bonga’s character is more than just a friend; he is the glue that holds the group together, always offering constructive advice and solutions. For Mthembu, stepping into Bonga’s shoes is both a challenge and a joy. “I’m passionate about my acting career. Every character I’ve portrayed is different in such a way that it gives me different challenges. I love challenges because they test my strength and talent. I say this character of Bonga is challenging because it involves many things, including sex,” he shared with Daily Sun.
The 30-year-old actor’s dedication to his craft is evident in how deeply he connects with his roles. However, playing such an intense character does have its drawbacks. Mthembu humorously recalled how some women in the streets would approach him, asking him to replicate the romantic gestures his character Bonga performs on the show. “That was a bit hectic. But as a gentleman, I’d handle the situation respectfully and humbly. I mean, I’d make women understand the difference between a character and a person who plays it. That’s what helped me, and no one would think that I come across as an arrogant actor,” he explained.
Mthembu’s career is on a remarkable upward trajectory. He has appeared in popular shows such as The River, Shaka Ilembe, The Gamechangers, and Outlaws, earning recognition and acclaim along the way. This year alone, he received four nominations at the South African Film & Television Awards, including two Best Actor nods for his roles in Adulting and Outlaws, as well as Best Supporting Actor for The River and Best Actor in a Telenovela for Outlaws.
Despite his growing fame, Mthembu remains grounded, much like his character Bonga. “Bonga loves his family. He’s a family man. That’s how I am,” he said, drawing a parallel between his on-screen and off-screen personas..
