This year has shown that the South African film industry continues to thrive on talent, authenticity, and hard work which are qualities embodied by Thandolwethu ‘Olly’ Zondi. In a short time, he has proven to be a remarkable gift to the industry, standing out as a rising force driven by talent and dedication.
Thandolwethu is currently nominated at the Africa Choice Awards for Most Promising Movie Star of the Year, at the National Film & Television Awards South Africa for Best Newcomer, and at the NXT Honors Awards for Best Actor in a Film or TV Series. This further proves that he truly defines what a great year for exceptional talent looks like!
Catch Thandolwethu on Netflix’s GO!, where he plays the talented Siya, and on Shaka iLembe Season 2, available to binge-watch on DStv Stream, where he portrays the role of Nyembezi. Recently, Showmax announced the release of Outlaws Season 2, which will start streaming on 17 November 2025. In this new season, Thandolwethu’s character, Mthunzi Biyela, comes to light, a role he not only does justice to but delivers with a standout performance that showcases his brilliance and undeniable screen presence.
To add to his brilliance, Thandolwethu made his theatre debut in My Children! My Africa! by Athol Fugard, directed by Aubrey W. Sekhabi. The production, which ran in March and returned for a second season in August, featured Zondi alongside veteran actor Mandla Gaduka. Set during the final days of Apartheid, the play explores themes of education, identity, and social change. The play will be travelling to Nigeria this month. Thandolwethu took on the role of Thami Mbikwana, a gifted yet restless township youth grappling with the political turbulence of the era, a performance that further showcased his depth and versatility as an actor.
The industry should brace itself for the impact Thandolwethu is making, and the heights he is destined to reach. A true force in performance, he continues to make us proud and is only getting started. Keep your eyes on Thandolwethu Zondi, he’s here to stay
