Mpilo Mbatha (born 3 November 2001) is a South African actor best known for playing Michael in the SABC 3 telenovela The Estate.
The 23-year-old has also delivered standout performances in Shaka iLembe, Homecoming, and The River.
| Mpilo Mbatha | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Personal Details | |
| Name: | Mpilo Mbatha |
| Born: | 3 November 2001 (age 23 years old) |
| Origin: | Mnambithi, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands |
| Nationality: | South African |
| Education: | Social science and geography |
| Alma mater: | Wits University |
| Occupation: | Actor |
| Known for: | Shaka iLembe The Estate |
Early Life
Mpilo Mbatha was born on 3 November 2001. He is from Mnambithi, in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Growing up, he never thought of being an actor one day, but everything changed when he accompanied his friend, who was part of Shaka iLembe season one. His father taught him a lot about acting.
Education
Mbatha studies for a teaching degree, majoring in social science and geography at Wits University.
Although he is studying for a teaching degree, the actor says he is now married to acting and will focus on it as a profession.
Career
In 2023, Mpilo Mbatha played Melusi, a young, strong Zulu man raised by Bangizwe (played by Siyabonga Thwala) in the drama series The River. He also starred as Dr Shobane Mnisi on the Mzansi Wethu telenovela Homecoming.
He played Michael in the SABC3 telenovela The Estate, which explores a suburban community, Echelon Estate.
In 2024, he played the recurring role of Khaya Bhoza in Showmax’s Empini. He starred alongside Nambitha Ben-Mazwi, Siyanbonga Thwala, Sparky Xulu, Sello Motloung, Amahle Khumalo, Terrence Ngwila, Neo Ntlatleng, Angela Sithole, and Sandile Mahlangu.
Mbatha plays King Mzilikazi kaMashobane on Shaka iLembe, a series that tells the story of King Shaka of the Zulu Kingdom. Playing the role struck has earned him heartfelt praise from audiences in other countries, including Zimbabwe. In August 2025, He stole the show and left viewers praising him for delivering his best.
Filmography
- (2025) Homecoming as Mnisi Shobane
- (2024) Empini as Khaya Bhoza
- (2022-Current) Shaka Ilembe as Mzilikazi
- (2022) The River as Melusi
References
- Lebo Tleane. “8 Interesting Facts About Shaka iLembe’s Mpilo Mbatha (Mzilikazi)”. Youth Villa.
- Mbalenhle Zuma. “Mpilo Mbatha’s ‘Shaka iLembe’ role receives praise across the Limpopo River”. Sunday World.
- Jabulani Langa. “Shaka iLembe’s star- I never imagined myself acting!”. Daily Sun.
