Gabisile Tshabalala Joins ‘Inimba’ Season Two With a Character Close to Her Heart
South African actress Gabisile Tshabalala is taking on a new challenge as she joins the second season of Mzansi Magic’s popular telenovela “Inimba”, playing a character she says reflects a younger version of herself.
Tshabalala, known for her roles in productions including “Scandal!”, “Losing Lerato”, “Love, Sex and 30 Candles” and most recently “Muvhango”, joins the series as Thokozile, the older sister of Zethu, played by Mpumie Khuzwayo.
The character makes her debut as season two begins on Monday, August 3, bringing a complicated past and unexpected energy back to Cosmo City.
Thokozile returns after years away from her family following the end of her relationship with a truck driver. Her arrival comes at a major moment in her sister Zethu’s life, as Zethu prepares to become a mother.
Although she hopes to reconnect with her family, her return creates tension and disruption, affecting the lives of those around her.
Speaking about the role, Tshabalala said she immediately connected with Thokozile because of the character’s fearless and outspoken personality.
She described Thokozile as someone who says what she thinks without worrying too much about how others may react, a quality she feels she had more of when she was younger.
“I love how free-spirited she is,” Tshabalala said, explaining that the character reminds her of a time when she could express herself more openly without holding back.
However, beneath Thokozile’s bold personality is a woman dealing with emotional struggles. Tshabalala said she explored the character’s hidden pain by considering how many people use humour and confidence to cover what they are experiencing internally.
The actress said this emotional contrast was important in shaping the role, especially because she understands the experience of appearing strong while carrying personal challenges.
Tshabalala also praised the welcoming atmosphere on the “Inimba” set, saying joining the production felt natural despite meeting some cast members for the first time.
She explained that working with familiar colleagues and new faces created a sense of belonging and made the transition into the show much easier.
Fans can expect Thokozile to bring a mix of humour, emotion and drama to the series. Tshabalala teased that the character will introduce “laughter, love and loads of chaos” as she attempts to rebuild relationships with her family.
The actress believes viewers will have mixed reactions to Thokozile, with some embracing her honesty while others may find her unpredictable behaviour frustrating.
Comparing the character to media personality Zodwa Wabantu, Tshabalala said Thokozile represents someone who lives freely, makes mistakes and remains true to herself despite public opinion.
“Inimba” airs weekdays from Monday to Friday on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) at 8:30pm.
