Netflix’s The Polygamist, a Zulu-language telenovela, has captured notable attention both in South Africa and globally. The series, set in Johannesburg, has become a conversation starter, not only locally but in diverse locations like Hong Kong, Romania, and the United States. Garnering over 23 million views in its first month, The Polygamist has reached the top ten in 62 countries, claiming the number one spot in nearly 24 countries.
The show revolves around the Gomoras, a wealthy Black family, with the plot following Joyce as she navigates the complexities of her husband Jonasi’s other household. Across 22 dramatic episodes, extravagant feuds, arson, and adult themes unfold. Celebrities have joined the fanfare, with Sherri Shepard comparing the series to the 2018 hit Crazy Rich Asians, highlighting its rich African narrative.
Sue Nyathi, the Zimbabwean author of the book on which the series is based, believes the series captivates viewers by portraying a lesser-seen affluent African lifestyle. She notes that while poverty in Africa is well-documented, affluent African societies are often overlooked in media portrayals. The show’s luxurious settings showcase mansions, designer fashion, and opulent vehicles.
It holds up a mirror to society, allowing people to see themselves in different situations,
says Nyathi, indicating its universal appeal. Though centered on polygamy, the themes of infidelity resonate globally, reflecting familiar stories of marital dynamics.
The Book’s Journey and Inspiration
Nyathi’s book initially struggled but saw a resurgence in interest following the Netflix adaptation. Inspired by observing men with secret second families, Nyathi tells the story from the women’s perspective. She wanted to provide women a voice, exploring why they might participate in such arrangements.
Cultural Context and Global Impact
In South Africa, traditional law permits polygamy, unlike civil law. The show explores this theme authentically, with producers Gugu Zuma-Ncube and Thuli Zuma having personal connections to polygamy. Their father, Jacob Zuma, South Africa’s former President, has multiple wives.
Zuma-Ncube hopes the show’s success abroad will benefit African storytellers in general. The series is praised for its multilingual presentation, offering subtitles and a dubbed version that maintains some local vernacular. Words like ‘haibo!’, conveying surprise, and cultural nods to ‘braaiing’ (barbecuing) add authenticity and familiarity.
Fostering Dialogue and Awareness
The show has sparked discussion on polygamy, women’s rights, and public health. UNAIDS leveraged the series for HIV awareness, promoting safe practices with the tagline Don’t be a Jonasi
. Similarly, a campaign in Limpopo province addressed gender-based violence, asserting that the series contrasts fiction with real-world consequences.
By building on secrecy and scandal, The Polygamist has opened the door to significant social conversations far beyond its dramatic storylines.
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