Uzalo: Time, Channel, Story, New Cast in 2026 and How to Watch
Uzalo at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Channel | SABC 1 |
| Time | 20:00, Monday to Friday (since 27 July 2026) |
| First episode | 9 February 2015 |
| Setting | KwaMashu, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Main language | isiZulu |
| Created by | Duma Ndlovu |
| Production company | Stained Glass Productions, co-owned by Kobedi “Pepsi” Pokane and Gugu Zuma-Ncube |
| Episode length | About 23 to 25 minutes |
| Catch-up | SABC+ |
What Is Uzalo About?
Uzalo began with the story of two young men from KwaMashu who were swapped at birth around the time Nelson Mandela was released from prison. One grew up in the Mdletshe family, who run the KwaMashu Kingdom Church, and the other in the Xulu family, who ran a car theft syndicate. Over the years the story has moved on to new families, crime bosses, church life and community drama, but faith, crime and family remain at its heart.
New Cast Members in 2026
| Actor | Character | When announced |
|---|---|---|
| Phindile Mashabane | LaDlamini | April 2026 |
| Nduduzo Zuma | Smiso | April 2026 |
| Sikhosiphi Ngcobo | Bab’Sizwe, a respected traditional leader | April 2026 |
| Abdul Khoza | MaTenTen, leader of the Amantaliyane | July 2026 |
| Londeka Sishi | Lungsta | July 2026 |
Long-time viewers know Uzalo for actors such as Masoja Msiza, who played the crime boss Nkunzi Mhlongo.
The Move to 20:00
On 27 July 2026, SABC 1 moved Uzalo from 20:30 to 20:00 and moved Generations: The Legacy to 20:30. It was the first time in more than 30 years that Generations was not on at 20:00. See the full SABC 1 soapies schedule.
How Popular Is Uzalo?
Uzalo has led South Africa’s TV ratings for years. In 2024 it was the most watched show in every month from January to November, with its biggest episode watched by about 5.7 million people, according to Broadcast Research Council figures reported at the time.
How to Watch Uzalo
- Live on SABC 1 at 20:00 on weeknights, free to air.
- On DStv and other services that carry SABC 1.
- On SABC+ for live TV and catch-up.
Uzalo Questions
What time is Uzalo on?
At 20:00, Monday to Friday, on SABC 1, since 27 July 2026.
Where is Uzalo set?
In KwaMashu, a township north of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal.
Who produces Uzalo?
Stained Glass Productions, co-owned by Kobedi “Pepsi” Pokane and Gugu Zuma-Ncube.
When did Uzalo start?
On 9 February 2015.
Who plays MaTenTen in Uzalo?
Abdul Khoza, who joined the cast in 2026.
More: SABC 1 soapies schedule, Skeem Saam guide and South African celebrities.