Jiva, Netflix‘s third African original series is one of the most anticipated projects of 2020; partly due to the entertaining story line and the success of it’s first African original series, Queen Sono. A South African crime drama starring Pearl Thusi, Sono is now going into its second season after receiving rave reviews.
Produced by Cape Town-based Blue Ice Africa, Jiva follows a talented street dancer Ntombi (breakout star, Noxolo Dlamini); who slowly realizes dancing may be a ticket out of her dead-end job, family drama and turbulent love life.
Busisiwe Ntintili, of The Ntintili Factory, is the creator and showrunner of Jiva. The award-winning writer, director and producer is responsible for one of South Africa’s highest rated television shows, the Peabody Award-winning drama Intersexions. Including the hit movie Happiness is a Four Letter Word.
Netflix’s Jiva stars Candice Modiselle (“Generations”), Sne Mbatha (“So You Think You Can Dance”). Including Stella Dlangalala (“Funny People Africa”) and veteran actor Tony Kgoroge (“Invictus,” “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom”).
However, Netflix is yet to announce details of production and premiere dates.
Blood and Water
Netflix had recently announced its second African original series, titled Blood & Water.
Nosipho Dumisa directed the series which focuses on “a world of mystery, raw family dynamics and light-hearted relief.”
The female cast includes Ama Qamata, Khosi Ngema, Gail Mabalane, Natasha Thahane, and Cindy Mahlangu.
Gambit films produced this youthful series. It follows the story of a teenager who discovers shocking secrets about her family’s past whilst trying to navigate life at a South African high school.
Describing the casting process, Dumisa said:
“Blood & Water presented us with the opportunity to bring a mixture of fresh new faces alongside seasoned actors. After seeing hundreds of actors and newcomers from both Cape Town and Johannesburg; we’re excited to be a part of opening up the industry.’
Blood & Water is set to hit screens in May.
