Between DSTV, Netflix, Showmax and our local TV stations, we have really been spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a movie/ documentary or series to indulge in. However, from top notch drama, jaw dropping betrayal and romance, it goes without saying that there were definitely TV shows that had us glued to our TV screens this past year.
The storylines, the eye candy and the acting all played a major role in the making of this list so, in no particular order, here is our list of top 5 shows of 2021.
Starting off the list is The Wife, Showmax's first telenovela, which debuted not so long ago and was an instantaneous hit. The series is a fan-favourite adaptation of Dudu Busani-Dube’s bestseller book Hlomu the Wife. Following the premier of the show, it trended at number one on Twitter for two weeks in a row breaking a record and becoming Showmax’s most watched launch ever.
Next is the American fantasy drama Underground Railroad which stars our very own Thuso Mbedu as the main character. The series is based on the historical-fiction novel focusing on slavery. It takes us on a journey of a young woman (Thuso Mbedu) during her struggle to rescue herself from slavery in the deep south when she makes an unexpected discovery. This series had us at the edge of our seats from start to finish.
Another local telenovela that had us hooked is The River. The show follows the lives of two families, the Dlamini's and the Mokoena's who are both from Pretoria but come from completely different worlds. The worlds of affluent businessmen and downtrodden township residents collide and the show takes us on a journey that is ruled by greed and deception. Watching how love and blood ties are put to the test had us glued to our screens.
Another fan favorite from 2021 is Netflix series, Blood and Water. The local series is a crime drama that focuses on the lives of high school teenagers who are on a quest to find answers to questions from their past. The series is a gripping millennial tale that has us biting our nails in anticipation for season 3.
Lastly we have The Queen, a Ferguson Films production that first aired on our screens in 2017. In the past year alone, the soapie had over a million daily viewers tuning in to keep up with the events of the show. The drama packed series focuses on two high-end families that are mixed up in what seems to be never ending criminal activities. The best thing about this show is that it streams on Mzansi Magic everyday from 9pm, so we are guaranteed daily entertainment.
We are eagerly waiting to see what this year will offer when it comes to screen time because the local talent has proven to be unmatched. What was your fav show from 2021?