More SA Series to Watch If You Loved The Polygamist

The success of The Polygamist on Netflix has been a watershed moment for South African television, which has long produced high-caliber work. Viewers around the world had their jaws on the floor at the antics of the series’ lead star, Jonasi Gomora (played by S'dumo Mtshali). 

The series is not all that South African television has to offer. Here are ten more series to watch if you enjoyed it.

Savage Beauty

Zinhle (played by Rosemary Zimu), a mysterious woman, embeds herself within the wealthy Bhengu family to exact revenge for what they did to hers. The family, custodians of a global cosmetics empire, harbors a dark secret that Zinhle is out to lay bare. The series also stars Dumisani Mbebe as Don Bhengu and Nthati Moshesh as Grace Bhengu.

Where to watch: Netflix

The Wife

Much like The Polygamist, The Wife is an adaptation of a novel, this time by South African author Dudu Busani-Dube. It became one of South Africa's defining streaming successes by blending romance, crime, and family drama into an addictive saga. Set against the backdrop of the powerful Zulu taxi underworld, the series follows Hlomu, a journalist whose life changes after she falls in love with Mqhele Zulu, the charismatic yet volatile member of a feared crime family. The series stars Mbalenhle Mavimbela as Hlomu, with Bonko Khoza (seasons 1 and 2) and Wiseman Mncube (season 3) as the taxi boss Mqhele.

Where to Watch: Showmax

Fatal Seduction

Fatal Seduction is a psychological thriller that peels back the sheen of an affluent South African family to reveal the dark underbelly that powers them. Nandi is a respected university professor whose seemingly stable marriage begins to unravel after an impulsive weekend away leads to a passionate affair with a younger man. As the mystery unfolds, the series shifts between romance, crime, and courtroom drama. Fatal Seduction stars Frances Sholto-Douglas, Kgomotso Christopher, Nathaniel Ramabulana, and Prince Grootboom.

Where to watch: Netflix

Kings of Joburg

Kings of Joburg is a Netflix crime-fantasy series about the powerful Masire family, whose hand looms large over the criminal underworld. The show blends supernatural elements with aspects of organized crime, and its narrative centers on brothers Simon and Mogomotsi "Mo" Masire, played by the late Shona Ferguson and Zolisa Xaluva, respectively.

Where to watch: Netflix

Blood & Water

Produced by Gambit Films (Unseen, Nommer 37), Blood & Water is a teen crime drama centered on Puleng (played by Ama Qamata), whose sister was kidnapped shortly after birth. Over four gripping seasons, we are taken through the maze of Puleng's life as she uncovers the mystery of her missing sister, a secret kept by both family and friends. Set in Cape Town, the series also stars Khosi Ngema and Gail Mabalane.

Where to watch: Netflix

How to Ruin Christmas

This hit series follows Tumi Sello (played by the late Busi Lurayi), the rebellious black sheep of the family, as she wreaks havoc on her family's holiday plans with reckless behavior, then scrambles to clean up the mess. Each season revolves around a different holiday milestone, drawing us closer to the worlds of the wealthy Twala and working-class Sello families. The series also stars Thando Thabethe as Beauty Sello, Clementine Mosimane as Dineo Sello, and Rami Chuene as Aunt Grace.

Where to watch: Netflix

The Brave Ones

The Brave Ones is a fantasy drama that follows Ntsiki, an ordinary young woman who discovers she is the reincarnation of a powerful goddess destined to protect her people. The series combines folklore, prophecy, and modern politics into a distinctly local take on the superhero genre.

Where to watch: Netflix

The River

Set in the world of mining wealth and family ambition, The River follows the Dikana family as they navigate betrayal and the consequences of unchecked greed. At the center of the story is Lindiwe Dikana, who emerged as one of South African television's most memorable antiheroes: a formidable businesswoman whose determination to protect her empire often places her at odds with those closest to her.

Where to watch: Mzansi Magic

Uthando Nes'thembu

Uthando Nes'thembu offers an intimate look at modern polygamous marriage through the life of businessman Musa Mseleku and his family. The reality series examines the everyday effects of polygamy, following the relationships between Mseleku, his wives, and their children. We witness how they navigate family life and evolving social expectations and bear witness to domestic disagreements, financial pressures, and questions of faith.

Where to watch: Mzansi Magic

Happiness Is a Four-Letter Word

Nandi, Zaza, and Princess are three accomplished women whose close friendship helps them navigate the complexities of modern life in Johannesburg. Their bond becomes a refuge and a source of honest reflection as they confront unexpected obstacles.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime