NFTA 2025 celebrates legends of South African entertainment with a night of inspiration and recognition

THE National Film & TV Awards South Africa returned to the prestigious Opera Theatre in Pretoria for its third annual celebration, painting the night with glittering accolades and heartfelt tributes to the stars who have shaped the future of South African entertainment.

On a night filled with electrifying performances and surprise appearances, this year's ceremony, broadcast live on VooVix TV and hosted by the celebrated television personality Samkelo, was nothing short of spectacular.

Among the memorable highlights of the evening was the presentation of the NFTA Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 to the legendary Dr John Kani. His impact on theatre, film, and global storytelling has made him a titan in the industry, and as he took to the stage, the audience erupted into a standing ovation.

Kani's emotional acceptance speech resonated deeply, as he conveyed gratitude to the NFTA for honouring his journey. “This is one of the greatest honours of my life,” he remarked. “I thank the National Film and TV Awards for recognising this journey and dedicating this award to me as a reminder that every young actor rising in our nation carries the potential to change the world.

"May this inspire all who are on their way up to keep going, keep creating, and keep believing.”

Alongside Kani, four other iconic figures in South African film and television were honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Film & TV Awards: Leon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela, Sello Maake KaNcube, and Dr Jerry Mofokeng. Each of these luminaries has significantly impacted the industry, with decades of dedication and influence that continue to inspire both audiences and aspiring entertainers alike.

The success of the National Film & TV Awards this year was bolstered by an impressive roster of sponsors. Their contributions affirmed a shared commitment to elevating the ceremony to world-class standards.

This year's event showcased not only the achievements of the past but also ignited hope for the future of South African storytelling. With the country’s dynamic entertainment industry continuing to evolve, the NFTA stands firm as a beacon, championing the artists' journey and their role in shaping a vibrant cultural landscape.

Full list of NFTA 2025 winners

Best Actress in a TV Series 2025: (Sponsored by Kryolan South Africa) - Zenande Mfenyana – Inimba (Season 1)

Best Supporting Actor in a Film 2025: (Sponsored by The African Penguin Guesthouse & Conference Centre) - Francois Jacobs — Khaki Fever

Best Newcomer 2025: (Sponsored by MondayRepublic.com) - Thandolwethu Zondi – GO! (Season 1)

Best Scripted TV Series 2025: (Sponsored by Dechavel Watches) - Shaka iLembe (Mzansi Magic, Season 2)

Best Female TV Personality 2025: (Sponsored by Rekorderlig Cider) - Londie London – The Real Housewives of Durban

Best TV Presenter 2025: (Sponsored by Dechavel Watches) - Devi Govender – The Devi Show

Best Comedian 2025: Celeste Ntuli

Best Competition Show 2025: (Sponsored by 0861 Africa) - Big Brother Mzansi (Season 5)

Best Entertainment Show 2025: Real Housewives of Durban (Season 5)

Outstanding Performance 2025: (Sponsored by Mentos South Africa) - Wiseman Mncube – Shaka iLembe (Season 2), Zamani Mbatha – Shaka iLembe (Season 2)

Best Feature Film 2025: (Sponsored by REVIVE) - The Heart is a Muscle

Best Producer 2025: Desiree Markgraaff & Nomzamo Mbatha – Shaka iLembe

Celebrity Personality of the Year 2025: (Sponsored by George & MananaWines) - Lawrence Maleka

Best Production Company 2025: (Sponsored by Tempest Car Hire) - Quizzical Pictures

Best Television / Streaming Network 2025: Showmax

Best Non-Scripted TV Series 2025: Young, Famous & African

Best Documentary 2025: Pangolin: Kulu's Journey

Best TV Drama Series 2025: Skeem Saam

Best Afrikaans TV Series 2025: Binnelanders

Best Podcast 2025: (Sponsored by J'adore Collection) - Open Chats Podcast

Best Current News Programme 2025: Expresso Show – Graeme Richards, Carissa Cupido, Ryle, Zanele, Ewan, Carl

Best Actor in a TV Series 2025: (Sponsored by Château Gâteaux) - Clint Brink – Kings of Jo’burg (Season 3)

Best Supporting Actress in a Film 2025: (Sponsored by Native Child) - Loren Loubser – The Heart Is a Muscle

Best Actress in a Film 2025: (Sponsored by Kryolan South Africa) - Anel Alexander – Semi-Soeter

Best Supporting Actress in a TV Series 2025: (Sponsored by Lola Lee Beauty) - Angela Sithole – Empini

Best Director 2025: Angus Gibson – Shaka iLembe (Season 2)

Best Male TV Personality 2025: Sweet Guluva

Best Supporting Actor in a TV Series 2025: Sphamandla Dhludhlu – Marked (Season 1)

Best Actor in a Film 2025: Keenan Arrison – The Heart Is A Muscle

Best African International Film 2025: Meet the Khumalos (South Africa, Netflix)

Special honours:

NFTA – Lifetime Achievement Award 2025: Dr John Kani

NFTA – Outstanding Contribution to Film & TV Award 2025:

• Leon Schuster
• Alfred Ntombela
• Sello Maake KaNcube
• Dr Jerry Mofokeng