Mpilo Mbatha has opened up about the emotional demands of inhabiting complicated characters after earning his first National Film & TV Awards Best Actor nomination. The recognition is for his performance in Mzansi Wethu’s telenovela Homecoming.
The nomination arrived shortly after audiences were left stunned by the death of his popular character, Dr Shobane Mnisi. The storyline marked Mbatha’s departure from the hit drama.
Sharing the milestone on Instagram, the actor celebrated the breakthrough with his followers. “This character just got me my first Best Actor nomination!!” he wrote in capital letters.
Quick facts
- Mpilo Mbatha received his first National Film & TV Awards Best Actor nomination.
- He was nominated for playing Dr Shobane Mnisi in Homecoming.
- Dr Shobane’s on-screen death confirmed Mbatha’s exit from the Mzansi Wethu telenovela.
- Mbatha studied education at Wits University before establishing himself as an actor.
- His credits include Shaka iLembe, Empini and The River.
Mbatha also gave a heartfelt goodbye to Shobane, describing the role as a deeply meaningful chapter. “Shobane Mnisi, as you bow out of the world’s eyes, thank you, my brother, for choosing us to tell the world about your life,” he said.
Although he did not come from a conventional acting background, Mbatha has quickly become a notable talent in the industry. He completed an education degree at Wits University before moving into performance.
Apart from Homecoming, he portrayed King Mzilikazi in Shaka iLembe, played Khaya Boza in Empini, and also appeared in The River.
“From obtaining a Wits degree two years back to ending up experiencing lives of other human beings for a living is absolute bliss to me,” he wrote.
In his emotional message, Mbatha reflected on his life, career path and sense of inner peace. He said he remains grateful for the experiences he has had so far.
“Asiside kakhulu iskhathi esengisiphilile lapha emhlabeni,” he said, adding that the phrase means: “The time that I have lived here on earth is not very long.”
“In these few years to breathe that I have been given, life has been very good to me. I have not yet run short of breath, I have not yet regretted anything, I have not yet felt the yoke and the hardships of life. For this, I am grateful.”
Mbatha said he would be at peace if his life ended today, saying he is proud of what he has experienced and achieved.
“I usually tell my brother that if, God forbid, the sun sets on me this very day, he should know that I’m closing my eyes as an elated soul. I’ve lived, I’ve seen, I’ve felt,” he said.
He added that he is still new to the entertainment business and continues to learn, but feels embraced by the reception he has received.
“I honestly just arrived in this industry, still finding my feet and my balance, but the reception has been nothing short of celestial,” he said.
“Ngiyabonga bakwethu ngokungamukela ngothando,” he continued, meaning: “Thank you, my people, for welcoming me with love.”
Overwhelmed by the response, Mbatha briefly paused his reflection before thanking the people who gave him opportunities along the way. “Okay, I should probably stop here, for now,” he wrote.
He singled out SAFTA-winning producer and screenwriter Lulu Hela, who is also a juror for the 2026 International Emmy Awards. “Ngiyabonga sis omdala ngethuba,” he wrote, meaning: “Thank you, big sister for the opportunity.”
Mbatha also paid tribute to his Homecoming co-stars and crew. “To my brothers and sisters that I worked with in Homecoming, thank you, my peers and colleagues for the respect you have shown me, may you be blessed abundantly,” he said.
He concluded by thanking the awards organisation for recognising his work. “Thank you for the recognition, fam. Highly appreciated and motivated to paint more!”
Also in entertainment news: Mandla N has addressed SABC’s cancellation of Paradys, saying the team’s attention has already shifted toward the next opportunity.
