“The River” Actress Sindi Dlathu’s Performance of “Madlabantu” Garners Sixth SAFTA Nomination

The South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) have officially announced the nominations for their 18th annual ceremony, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the industry. Among the distinguished nominees is Sindi Dlathu, who has garnered significant acclaim for her portrayal of Lindiwe Dlamini-Dikana, a character famously referred to as “Madlabantu.”

Dlathu's performance in *The River* showcases her ability to embody a complex character defined by her ruthless drive for wealth and power. Over the course of the show's six seasons, Dlathu has consistently delivered compelling performances, marking her as a prominent figure in South African television. This year’s nomination for Best Actress represents her sixth recognition in this category, underscoring her exceptional talent, dedication, and passion.

In 2023, Sindi Dlathu set a record for the most SAFTA nominations for a single role throughout the entirety of a series, a testament to her outstanding contributions to “The River”. Notably, she has clinched two SAFTA awards for her performance, further solidifying her reputation within the industry.

As “The River” approaches its final season, Dlathu has undoubtedly made a significant impact, establishing herself as a household name. Her consistent excellence has garnered a loyal following, with fans enthusiastic about her latest nomination. They vocally affirm her deserving status, having witnessed her bring depth and complexity to the character of Lindiwe Dlamini-Dikana through the years.

This year, Sindi Dlathu is joined in the Best Actress category by Zikhona Sodlaka for her role in “Gqeberha” and the late Connie Chiume for her portrayal of Mam Sonto in “Gomora”. The awards ceremony promises to celebrate the extraordinary talents of these actresses along with many others within the South African film and television landscape.