Cindy Mahlangu and Zozibini Tunzi set screens ablaze in Netflix’s ‘Bad Influencer’
Cindy Mahlangu as Pinky vs Zozibini Tunzi as Naomi moment on Netflix's Bad Influencer.
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The cast of Bad Influencer has received a positive reception from fans on X, with viewers commending the actors' talent. Cindy Mahlangu and Zozibini Tunzi, among others, have particularly captivated audiences and stolen many hearts.
‘Bad Influencer’ brings the world of influencers to the screen, featuring beloved South African stars.
The series introduces Tunzi, former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe, in her debut acting role, alongside Mahlangu, known for her role in "Blood and Water." In this series, the two stars portray rivals.
The series centers on two women facing desperate circumstances. Jo-Anne Reyneke plays BK, a single mother deeply in debt to a loan shark, who sees an opportunity in Pinky.
Pinky, portrayed by Mahlangu, is a self-serving influencer whose income has dried up and whose friends offer no support. Facing a dire situation, Pinky accepts BK's offer to sell counterfeit bags, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
With seven episodes, ‘Bad Influencer’ premiered on Netflix on October 31. Fans have taken to TikTok and X to share their reactions to the cast of the new series, with some personalizing their criticism based on real-life dislikes of certain influencers.
Lerato commented on X, "People who say Bad Influencer was terrible need to be honest & admit that they feel that way because they actually don't like the influencers in real life."
However, others disagree, with one user (B. @Fiireee_), on X stating, "Bringing so many influencers annoyed me, but the storyline and the acting?? Pls, that was great."
Mahlangu has been in the spotlight this month. She was a judge at Miss South Africa 2025 and is now captivating audiences as the main character in a new series.
Viewers have been effusive in their praise, with one TikTok fan, @Bubbles, who posted, "I won’t be surprised if Netflix calls you to do something else besides South African production. I won’t be surprised to see you in Hollywood because what you did there, Guys go run, and watch ‘Bad Influencer.’"
Another fan noted, "She is incredible. I’ve seen her in some vlogs, and she seems so shy and reserved! But her performance was stellar."
Tunzi has garnered considerable attention for her role in the series. After achieving the titles of Miss South Africa and Miss Universe, she became a significant role model for aspiring beauty queens nationwide.
However, her portrayal of a bullying character in her first major screen role sparked disapproval among viewers.
An X user, Thobja Blessing, commented, "I know this is acting, but couldn't they give her better lines? These are not the words I want coming out of our Miss Universe. She's way too classy," reflecting the sentiment of those who found it difficult to see their role model in such a negative light.
Despite criticism over her character her performance was widely applauded. An X user, Nkosazane, enthusiastically commented, “She did a good job, especially it being her first acting gig. It felt real, like she is a real-life mean girl.”
Other users said they disliked her as Naomi, but she effectively portrayed the role of a bully.
Others were praising Bra Alex, portrayed by Vincent Mahlape, for nailing the charming villain in the series.
A user on X, Ta Hlamza, commented on X, “There is A New Guluva in Town!!! It’s my first time seeing Vincent Mahlape on my TV screen, but he is seasoned!! Bra Alex is one of those villains that you love to hate- very ruthless and evil but good looking and charming. Stellar performance, man.”