South African viewers are spoilt for choice in 2025, with homegrown dramas dominating airwaves while international titles captivate binge-watchers on streaming platforms.
Whether it’s the rise of Shaka Zulu or a South Korean underdog tale, the local audience is watching a dynamic mix of genres.
Top Local TV Shows
1. Uzalo (SABC1)
Still leading the ratings race, Uzalo remains South Africa’s most-watched show with close to 5 million weekly viewers. It continues to resonate with audiences through its gripping depiction of life in KwaMashu.
2. Shaka iLembe – Season 2 (Mzansi Magic)
This epic historical series returns on June 15, reigniting interest in Zulu history. The first season made waves with record-breaking numbers and multiple SAFTA awards.
3. Blood & Water – Season 4 (Netflix)
Now a staple in global teen drama, Blood & Water continues to thrive. Season 4 recently garnered 33.7 million viewing hours internationally, cementing its cult status among Gen Z viewers.
4. Savage Beauty – Season 2 (Netflix)
With revenge, power, and family secrets at its core, Savage Beauty remains a must-watch on South African Netflix charts.
5. Kings of Jo’Burg – Season 2 (Netflix)
This moody, supernatural crime series delves into the criminal underworld of Johannesburg, delivering suspense and family drama in equal measure.
Top International TV Shows in South Africa
6. Weak Hero Class 1 (South Korea)
This gritty, emotional South Korean series has found a strong fanbase in South Africa. Centered around a physically small but mentally tough student, it delivers intense action and deep themes of resilience.
7. Adolescence (UK)
A British psychological thriller known for its single-take filming technique and layered narrative. It’s quietly become a sleeper hit on Netflix South Africa.
8. The Ultimatum: South Africa
A local spin on the global dating experiment format. Though a South African production, its reality TV drama makes it one of Netflix’s most streamed “international-style” shows.
9. Bridgerton – Season 3 (Netflix, UK/USA)
Romantic, dramatic, and visually extravagant, Bridgerton remains a global powerhouse. South Africans continue to devour the new season, with Lady Whistledown’s latest secrets trending weekly.
10. 3 Body Problem (USA/China)
This mind-bending sci-fi thriller has sparked conversation across demographics, merging deep philosophical questions with cinematic storytelling. It ranks high on Netflix SA’s charts.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into African royal history, rebellious teenagers, or twisted sci-fi mysteries, South Africa’s TV landscape in June 2025 is rich, varied, and more connected to the world than ever.
