Culture Craze
Zozibini Tunzi Shines in Netflix’s ‘Bad Influencer’ with Cindy Mahlangu
Zozibini Tunzi Steps Into Her First TV Role
South African icon Zozibini Tunzi is swapping her crown for the small screen. The former Miss Universe 2019 will make her long-awaited television debut in the Netflix original series Bad Influencer, premiering on 31 October 2025.
The series follows a single mother and a bag counterfeiter who team up with a social media influencer to make money and escape debt. Tunzi plays Naomi, a character she describes as “confident, layered, and slightly dangerous,” offering fans a completely new side to the star they once watched conquer the world stage.
Sharing the news on Instagram, Tunzi wrote, “The cat’s out the bag! Meet Naomi on the new series Bad Influencer. I’m so proud of my first series role. The show is incredible, the cast is impeccable you’re gonna love it all.”
A Star-Studded Local Cast
Tunzi joins a powerhouse ensemble that includes Jo-Anne Reyneke, Cindy Mahlangu, and Thapelo Mokoena, with Mahlangu taking on the role of Pinky and Reyneke starring as BK, the single mother at the centre of the story.
Mahlangu also took to Instagram to share her excitement, calling herself the “Star girl, lead girl, thee girl,” giving followers a first look at her bold, confident character.
The chemistry between Tunzi and Mahlangu has already sparked anticipation among local fans, who are eager to see how their very different worlds, a counterfeiter and an influencer, collide on screen.
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From Beauty Queen to Leading Lady
This isn’t Tunzi’s first brush with film and television. She previously appeared in the 2022 international hit The Woman King alongside Viola Davis, produced and hosted the Miss South Africa reality show “Crown Chasers” on SABC3, and even disguised herself as the Robot on The Masked Singer South Africa.
Her move into scripted television marks a bold and exciting new chapter for the Eastern Cape-born star, who continues to expand her creative footprint far beyond the pageant world.
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Social Media Erupts with Support
Within hours of Tunzi’s announcement, her post was flooded with congratulations from celebrities and fans alike.
TV personality K Naomi Phakathi commented, “Almost had a heart attack, congratulations mama… can’t wait to see you on screen!” while entertainer Kamo WW Pule wrote, “I genuinely can’t get over this! Waiting for Naomi!”
Fans echoed the same excitement, calling her a “Queen through and through” and vowing to be “glued to their screens” when Bad Influencer drops later this month.
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A Win for South African Storytelling
Bad Influencer is more than just a star-studded series; it’s another example of South Africa’s creative renaissance on international streaming platforms. The production showcases local talent, diverse storytelling, and the country’s growing ability to create original, high-quality television that resonates both locally and globally.
As for Zozibini Tunzi, this new role confirms what her supporters have always believed: she’s more than a beauty queen, she’s a born storyteller ready to take her place among South Africa’s rising screen stars.
Also read: Summer Walker’s 30-Minute Pretoria Show Sparks Outrage and Promoter Fallout
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: SurgeZirc SA
