It’s that time of the year again when the spotlight shines brightly on South Africa’s film, television, and digital entertainment industry. The National Film and Television Awards (NFTA) return for their third edition, celebrating the very best performances and productions that have captured audiences throughout the year.
The prestigious awards ceremony will take place on 22 November 2025 at the State Theatre in Pretoria. Since their inception, the NFTAs have been a respected platform that honours local talent, creativity, and the powerful stories told through South African screens.
🌟 Honouring Legends
This year’s ceremony will pay tribute to two icons who have shaped the local and international film landscape.
Dr John Kani will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award — a well-deserved recognition for his remarkable contribution to film and theatre, with standout performances in global blockbusters such as Black Panther, Sarafina!, and The Lion King.
Comedy legend Leon Schuster will also be celebrated for his unique contribution to South African cinema. With classics like Zulu on My Stoep, Mr Bones, and Mama Jack, Schuster revolutionised local comedy during a time when equality and transformation were still new conversations in South Africa.
He will be honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television Award, alongside Alfred Ntombelaand Dr Jerry Mofokeng, two industry veterans who have each left an indelible mark on local entertainment.
🎭 This Year’s Standout Nominees
The 2025 nominations feature a strong mix of established names and rising stars, showcasing the depth of South African talent across genres.
Best Actress in a Film
- Londeka Sishi – Umjolo: There Is No Cure
- Ayanda Borotho – Meet The Khumalos
- Lunathi Mpofu – Disaster Holiday
- Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku – Umjolo: My Beginnings, My End
- Sibusisiwe Jili – Umjolo: Day Ones
- Sibongseni Shezi – Umjolo: Gone Girl
Best Actor in a Film
- Kenneth Nkosi – Disaster Holiday
- Tyson Mathonsi – Umjolo: Gone Girl
- Nico Panagio – Semi-Soet
- Craig Nobela – Kites
- Christopher Jaftha – Khaki Fever
- Yonda Thomas – Umjolo: My Beginnings, My End
- Keenan Arrison – Heart Is a Muscle
Best Actress in a TV Series
- Gail Mabalane – Unseen
- Lerato Mvelase – Marked
- Samkelo Ndlovu – Adulting
- Kgomotso Christopher – Fatal Seduction
- Connie Ferguson – Kings of Joburg
- Zenande Mfenyana – Inimba
- Nelisiwe Faith Sibiya – Ithonga
Best Actor in a TV Series
- Zamani Mbatha – Black Gold
- Lemogang Tsipa – Shaka iLembe
- Thembinkosi Mthembu – Adulting
- Bonko Khoza – Ithonga
- Clint Brink – Kings of Joburg
- Zolisa Xaluva – Kings of Joburg
- Nhlanhla Kunene – Adulting
Best Scripted TV Series
- Marked
- Adulting
- Kings of Joburg
- Black Gold
- Ithonga
- Go
- Youngins
- Shaka iLembe
- Unseen
- Fatal Seduction
- Empini
🏆 Who Gets Your Vote?
The NFTAs are all about the public’s voice, giving viewers the power to celebrate the talent that has moved, entertained, and inspired them. These categories are just a glimpse of what’s to come — the night promises unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and well-deserved recognition for South Africa’s finest.
As the countdown to November 22 begins, one thing is certain: South African storytelling is alive, thriving, and ready to take centre stage once again.
I know who I’ll be voting for — do you?
