PICTURE: X/ THAMI MNGQOLO
South African actor Thami Mngqolo will make his debut on Mzansi Magic’s popular gospel-themed telenovela, Genesis.
This serves as a major comeback after he last appeared on screens between 2023 and 2024. Thami, born Zeke Elakhe Lungelo Mngqolo, is well-known for the character of Senzo Dhlomo that he portrayed on Generations. He played one of the few and first openly gay characters on prime-time television at the time, sparking conversation, praise, and controversy. He also appeared on Saints and Sinners, Igazi, Isono, Code 13, Home Affairs and many others.
He joins the star-studded cast that includes Baby Cele, Buyile Mdladla, Nay Maps, Gaosi Raditholo, Kealeboga Masango, KB Motsilanyane and Craig Nobela, among others. Together, the stars delve into the high-stakes world of gospel music where loyalty is tested and betrayal lurks around every corner.
Produced by Singavision Productions, Genesis shines the light on the dramatic, cutthroat world of the gospel music industry, featuring storylines about ambition, betrayal, family rivalries, and rising stars at the fictional Genesis Records.
Entertainment commentator Jabulani Macdonald took to his X (formerly Twitter) to reveal the news.
Former Generations actor Thami Mngqolo has joined Mzansi Magic’s telenovela, ‘Genesis’ pic.twitter.com/A3IS1QJ6Sv
— Jabulani Macdonald ⚡️ (@Jabu_Macdonald) January 17, 2026
https://t.co/gQWyHpvAUJ https://t.co/vHFgwUDEYz
— Jabulani Macdonald ⚡️ (@Jabu_Macdonald) January 17, 2026
X users had this to say:
Senzo is back😁. I know it’s a good return. May he be Mmarona’s lover. They would be good together.
— Rosé Diamond🌹💎 (@RealMadamCoco) January 17, 2026
Love it for him , I haven’t seem him on the screen for quite some time now
— DivineDestiny (@Ktolom) January 17, 2026
Its been long time coming !!!
— PhiweyiNkosi Ngubane (@clindoh08) January 17, 2026
Also see: Dr Rebecca Malope cameos on ‘Genesis’