SABC 2 is stepping into a bold new chapter with the announcement of Pimville, a brand-new high-stakes telenovela set to premiere in the first half of 2026. Slated for the 21:00 slot from Mondays to Fridays, the show promises gripping storytelling, powerful performances and a fresh era for local television.
At the centre of this exciting new series is actress Gail Mabalane, who officially joins the cast as one of the leading stars. She steps into the role of Pheello Mohapi, a fierce-hearted woman navigating love, survival and betrayal in the vibrant community of Soweto. Her character is set to bring depth, emotion and strength to the story, making her a standout part of this highly anticipated production.
Set in the heart of Soweto, Pimville is more than just a drama about love, ambition and betrayal. It is a celebration of resilience, community and heritage. Produced by Bakwena Productions, the telenovela brings Soweto’s rich cultural tapestry to the screen, offering audiences authentic South African storytelling at its finest.
SABC 2 unveiled the news on their Instagram page, sharing, “We’re proud to unveil a brand-new telenovela, Pimville, a gripping, heartfelt drama set in the vibrant township of Soweto. More than a story of love, ambition, and betrayal, Pimville celebrates resilience, community, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. With its rich cultural setting, gripping plotlines, and world-class performances, Pimville promises to captivate the nation and redefine the standard of local storytelling.”
Joining Gail Mabalane is a stellar ensemble cast that brings the world of Pimville to life:
- Matli Mohapeloa as Mmusi Mohapi, whose charm and inner conflict draw him dangerously close to power.
- Thapelo Mokoena as Kenneth Tumagole, a respected leader pushed to the edge by ambition.
- Keke Mphuthi as Naledi Tumagole, a woman fighting fiercely for her family’s legacy.
- Mondli Makhoba as Vusi “Jobe” Sithole, a reformed hustler haunted by his past.
- Michelle Mosalakae as Zinzi Sithole, whose quiet strength is shaped by hidden pain.
- Fulu Modibedi as Rofhiwa “Rofhi” Sithole, vibrant and loyal yet caught in emotional crossfire.
- Clementine Mosimane as Mme Mathapelo Tumagole, the guardian of tradition and wisdom.
- Jesse Suntele as Mojalefa “MJ” Kobo, a rising star wrestling with betrayal.
- Eve Rasimeni as Matlali “Moghele” Modise, bold and street-smart with a wounded heart.
- Sipho Ndlovu as Somfana “Demethi” Mazibuko, charismatic and unpredictable.
- Mandla Gaduka as Quincy Tumagole, a hustler with a questionable moral compass.
- Thabo Malema as Jones Tumagole, whose loyalty and friendships face intense tests.
- Charmaine Mtinta as Sis Aya, the mother figure who anchors the neighbourhood.
- Lillian Dube as Rakgadi wa Friestata, bringing wisdom, humour and heart.
With Gail Mabalane leading the cast and a story rooted in culture, community and emotional depth, Pimville is set to become one of South Africa’s must-watch telenovelas of 2026. SABC 2 invites the nation to step into this new era of storytelling and experience the world of Pimville.
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