The portrayal and influence of polygamy in a television series, Uthando Nes'Thembu

Abstract

This is a mixed method study that investigates the portrayal and influence of polygamy in a television series, Uthando Nes’thembu. The television programme is unique in the Southern African television space, with the show following the life of a polygamist, Mr Musa Mseleku and his family navigating through their polygamous relationship. The study focusses only on season one of five for feasibility purposes. The premiering of Uthando Nes’thembu in 2017 revived the debate of polygamy after that of former South African president, Jacob Zuma. In essence, the study investigates the portrayal of polygamy in this programme holistically – for children, wives, and the man in question – and whether the programme has captured this cultural practice correctly or not. In addition, the study interrogated the viewers’ perceptions through a survey questionnaire in an attempt to eliminate any researcher bias and to obtain an inclusive viewpoint about the series.