Landing a role in a Netflix Original is a major milestone for any rising talent and for Luyanda Zwane, it marks yet another step in a rapidly ascending career. Her role as Lindani in The Polygamist adds depth to the highly anticipated series, now streaming on Netflix.
This is her third appearance in a Netflix production, and she continues to prove that she is one of South Africa’s most promising young stars. From Miseducation to Classified, Zwane has consistently delivered standout performances, firmly establishing herself as a talent to watch.
The announcement and trailer for The Polygamist have already generated significant buzz across the industry. The series features a strong ensemble cast, blending well-known household names with emerging actors who are quickly making their mark across South African television. Born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Zwane first gained widespread attention through her role in Durban Gen. She later went on to secure a lead role in the Mzansi Wethu telenovela Sibongile & The Dlaminis, before most recently appearing in the Mzansi Magic epic drama Shaka iLembe.
With The Polygamist, Zwane continues to build momentum in what is shaping up to be a standout career in local and international entertainment. We sat down with the breakout star to talk about her role and more.
Lindani seems very mature in some moments but also very young and impressionable. What excites you most about this character?
Oh, Lindani. The pursuit of success in her world, or what she believes success is. I think that’s what was exciting for me about playing her. It was all the choices I had to make and all the corners of my imagination that I had to explore. And, of course, stretching my acting prowess, particularly when it came to intimate scenes. That was challenging for me, but also quite exciting because I realised I could push myself to go there. That was really exciting.
It was also exciting to work alongside Sdumo Mtshali. I grew up watching him on Isibaya as Sbu and Thandeka. Then suddenly, you’re standing in front of someone you’ve watched on TV for years, someone you’d DM and say, “Wow, that was a great scene.” And now he’s right there in front of you, sharing scenes and a storyline with you. So I think that was incredibly exciting for me. But more than anything, it was about exploring my imagination and discovering just how far the mind can go.
You’re acting alongside industry heavyweights in S’dumo Mtshali, Gugu Gumede and Sthandiwe Kgoroge. What’s the one biggest lesson you took away from working with them?
If you look at Sdumo Mtshali and Mam Sthandiwe Kgoroge, I’ve learned that even if you’ve been in the industry for 20 or 30 years, you still have to take it seriously. You still have to show up. You have to arrive on set prepared, know your lines, know the story, and respect the craft.
I think we, as the youth, should take that and run with it so that we can also build longevity and sustainability in this industry. So that even at 45, people who looked up to us can see that we are still showing up on set and respecting the work. Not telling ourselves that we are now big stars and developing big heads, thinking we can do whatever we want, whenever we want. So I’ve learned to respect the craft, no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.
How do you stay grounded when working on emotionally heavy material?
I do a lot of breathing work and I isolate myself. A lot of the cast members will tell you that I always have AirPods on and always isolated on days where I have emotionally demanding scenes.
What conversations do you hope this story sparks when it drops on Netflix?
I hope it sparks conversations on the topic of doing shadow work and healing ourselves before we commit to people or marriages so we don’t hurt people. Do shadow work and heal as a human being so you can live in love and truth. And of course protecting daughters, parents must protect and shield their daughters at all times so they don’t look for love in the wrong hands.
The Polygamist, Netflix’s new 22-episode supernovela is debuting on 12 June 2026.
