Award-winning actor Thembinkosi Mthembu is set to reprise his role as Bonga Tembe in Adulting Season 3. Bonga is a married man striving to build a family and a secure future with his wife, Nkanyezi (played by Londeka Sishi). However, their differing priorities cause tension in their relationship.
Bonga and Nkanyezi’s Marital Struggles
Early in their marriage, Bonga and Nkanyezi realize they have different visions for their future. Bonga is eager to start a family immediately, motivated by his desire to be a better father than his own absentee dad. Meanwhile, Nkanyezi wants to focus on her career for the next five years before having children.
According to Thembinkosi, this storyline reflects a common issue in relationships—miscommunication.
“Bonga and Nkanyezi’s problem is rooted in a lack of communication and selfishness. They never had an honest conversation about their expectations before getting married. Now, they’re two adults struggling with resentment,” he explains.
Thembinkosi Mthembu
To make matters worse, Bonga hoped marriage would end his infidelity, but instead, the growing tension pushes him back into his old ways.
Thembinkosi on Marriage and Playing Bonga
Thembinkosi reveals that his own experiences in marriage helped shape his portrayal of Bonga.
“Marriage is about communication and balance. My wife helped me prepare for this role by reading lines with me and sharing her perspective. Sometimes I’d say things in character to see how she’d react—it was fun but also insightful.”
Advice for Men and Women in Relationships
Drawing from both his personal experiences and his character’s journey, Thembinkosi offers advice to couples:
For men: Take life one step at a time. Society, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, puts immense pressure on men to be successful and attract women. He urges men to return to the basics—work hard, provide for their families, and avoid unnecessary pressures.
For women: Be kind and avoid generalizing all men based on past experiences. He also discourages staying in relationships for material benefits rather than love.
“If your partner is making an effort, acknowledge it. If you’re unhappy, don’t stay out of fear or convenience—leave and find happiness elsewhere.”
Will Bonga Escape His Father’s Shadow?
Bonga struggles with the same issue that destroyed his father—infidelity. He wants to be a better man, but his ego and lack of self-control keep pulling him back.
“Marrying Nkanyezi was his way of proving he’s different from his father, but his actions tell another story. He wants to be a great husband and father, but he’s failing.”
Bonga’s Relationship with Vuyani
Bonga often comes across as tough on his friend Vuyani, but Thembinkosi explains that it comes from a place of concern.
“Bonga sees a lot of potential in Vuyani, but he doesn’t take life seriously. He relies too much on his sugar mommy, Beth, instead of building something of his own.”
Bonga believes that Vuyani’s lack of independence is holding him back and wants to push him to become a responsible man. Their competitive dynamic also adds to their tensions.
“Vuyani wants to be like Bonga, but Bonga constantly reminds him that he’s not at his level yet.”
Why Bonga Confides in Mpho
Despite Bonga’s struggles in marriage, he often seeks advice from Mpho, another member of the friend group.
“Bonga admires Mpho’s role as a father. Even though Mpho is divorced, he still prioritizes his children. That stability is something Bonga longs for.”
The End of ‘Adulting’
Thembinkosi and the cast were at the office when they received news that Season 3 would be the final season.
“It was bittersweet, but we’re ending the story on a high note. ‘Ingoma siyi vala kusasmnandi’—we’re leaving while the story is still hot.”
While this marks the end of Adulting, Thembinkosi is confident he will reunite with the cast in future projects, as they had incredible chemistry and a strong work ethic.
As fans prepare for the final season, they can expect drama, heartbreak, and powerful storytelling, with Bonga’s journey at the heart of it all. Adulting Season 3 premieres soon.
