Multi-award winner Nambitha Ben-Mazwi is starring in her first lead role in a Showmax Original in 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.
“I’d like to believe that I manifested playing such a character,” says Lady Nam. “My team and I have been working on a strategy for the past two years on branching into a role that showcases my skills as an actress who can also perform in a high-paced action drama. As a strategist, I’ve been meticulous in my career and how I avoid playing the same character twice. The time is now to showcase the range I possess in my acting.”
Ben-Mazwi says Ndoni is her most physically demanding role yet. “I’ve done a physically challenging role before, but not to this extent. However, I also did Muay Thai fighting for two years so when I got this role, I was excited because I could now use my skill as a Muay Thai fighter. I’m generally an active person but for this role I’ve had to also up my training, change my diet and do more strength training to ensure that I fully immerse myself into this character.”
Empini starts streaming on Showmax from 23 May 2024 with two new episodes every week.
Watch Ndoni Themba’s trailer:
