JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Netflix’s telenovela The Polygamist, presented in Zulu, has taken South Africa by storm. This drama, teeming with scandal, has also become a surprise global phenomenon. Audiences from Romania, Hong Kong, and the U.S. have gravitated towards its engrossing plot full of twists, betrayals, and family drama. This saga of a husband’s duplicitous life amassed over 23 million views in its debut month, hitting the top ten in 62 countries, and clinching the number one spot in nearly 24 nations.
Plot Overview
Set in Johannesburg, The Polygamist follows the affluent Black family, the Gomoras. The matriarch, Joyce, struggles to maintain appearances as her husband Jonasi creates a household with another woman. Across 22 riveting episodes, viewers witness fierce confrontations, explosive scenes, and a cascade of surprises. These dynamic events have captured viewers’ attention, including celebrities like Sherri Shepard, former host of The View. On Instagram, Shepard expressed her enthusiasm for the show, drawing comparisons to the 2018 hit Crazy Rich Asians.
Writer’s Insights
Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi penned the book that inspired the show. Nyathi believes the series captivates global audiences by showcasing a unique African lifestyle. It highlights a wealthy African society often overlooked in media, which tends to focus on poverty. Nyathi emphasizes the story’s universal resonance, pointing to themes like infidelity that transcend cultural boundaries.
Popularity and Cultural Impact
After its adaptation into a Netflix series, Nyathi’s novel has experienced a surge in popularity. Her book signings have attracted non-traditional readers eager to explore her work. Nyathi conceived the story to explore the shift from traditional African polygamy to secretive second families and the impact on women. In her book, women take center stage, offering their perspectives on these dynamics.
Polygamy’s Societal Role
In South Africa, polygamy is culturally sanctioned but not under civil law. Traditionally, wives are aware of one another. The Zulu monarchs practice this tradition, with King Misuzulu kaZwelithini having three wives, recently embroiled in scandal over one partner’s alleged infidelity.
Production Background
The show is produced by Gugu Zuma-Ncube and Thuli Zuma, daughters of former President Jacob Zuma, a known polygamist. Valuing her father’s polygamous lifestyle, Zuma-Ncube sees the show’s international success as an encouragement for African storytelling. They were stunned by its overseas reception and hope it bolsters the industry.
Language and Cultural References
The series, primarily in Zulu, integrates English and various languages, reflecting South Africa’s multilingual culture. It also offers a dubbed version featuring South African voices, retaining local vernacular. Notable terms like “haibo!” and “braai” introduce non-local audiences to South African culture. Zuma-Ncube notes international viewers even learning Zulu through the series.
Social Discussion
The show’s topics resonate deeply, sparking discussion around polygamy, women’s rights, and HIV. Campaigns like “Don’t be a Jonasi,” promoted by UNAIDS, delve into safe sex practices. Additionally, initiatives against gender-based violence in South Africa reference the show’s narrative to raise awareness.
The Polygamist has transitioned beyond mere entertainment into a catalyst for substantial dialogue both within South Africa and internationally.