The Global Impact of Netflix’s ‘The Polygamist’

The Polygamist, a Zulu-language telenovela available on Netflix, has captured the attention of South African viewers and beyond. With scenes unfolding in Johannesburg, the drama highlights the opulent lifestyle of the Gomora family. It particularly focuses on Joyce Gomora, who struggles to maintain appearances while her husband Jonasi secretly cohabitates with another woman.

The series has achieved significant success globally, gaining over 23 million views in its first month and reaching the top ten in 62 countries, including the United States. It even secured the number one spot in almost two dozen nations. The episodes, filled with betrayals and unexpected plot twists, feature intense scenes such as fiery confrontations and acts of arson.

Sherri Shepherd, former host of ‘The View’, expressed her enthusiasm for the series on Instagram, comparing it to ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ while noting the extravagant depiction of wealth in the African context.

Sue Nyathi, the Zimbabwean author of the novel on which the show is based, believes the international intrigue stems from showcasing a lesser-seen side of affluent African life. She emphasizes that while poverty in Africa is often depicted, The Polygamist offers a fresh perspective by portraying an opulent African society. The series also appeals to audiences worldwide with its relatable themes of infidelity and complex family dynamics.

Nyathi points out that her novel struggled to attract attention initially, but the Netflix adaptation has significantly boosted its popularity. At book signings, she finds that even non-readers are eager to purchase the novel.

The story of The Polygamist is told primarily from the women’s perspectives, shedding light on their choices and experiences in such family setups. Nyathi wanted to give women their say in a narrative often dominated by men’s voices.

In South Africa, polygamy is recognized under traditional law. However, modern deviations include secretive second families, which was a source of inspiration for Nyathi’s story. The series draws parallels with real-life figures such as the Zulu monarchs and former President Jacob Zuma, who have practiced traditional polygamy.

Gugu Zuma-Ncube and Thuli Zuma, daughters of Jacob Zuma, are among the show’s producers. They reflect on their upbringing in a polygamous family and hope the series’ success will bolster the African entertainment industry.

While the primary language of The Polygamist is Zulu, the show also includes English and other languages, mirroring the multilingual environment of South Africa. A dubbed version retains some local vernacular, introducing international audiences to South African expressions.

The show’s reach has sparked discussions in South Africa concerning issues such as women’s rights, safe sex, and HIV awareness. Campaigns by UNAIDS and local government departments have used the series to address gender-based violence and other social issues.

The Polygamist navigates the complexities of polygamous relationships while prompting meaningful conversations globally and within South Africa.