Netflix viewers the world over are binge-watching South African series 'The Polygamist.' Here's why

The Polygamist. Gugu Gumede as Joyce Gomora in The Polygamist. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2026 Mpumelelo Macu/Netflix hide caption toggle caption Mpumelelo Macu/Netflix JOHANNESBURG, South Africa—Netflix's The Polygamist, a Zulu-language telenovela, has become a national talking point in South Africa. But the scandal-filled saga has also emerged as a surprise global hit, with audiences from Romania to Hong Kong to the U.S. bingeing the twists, betrayals and family drama. The story of a cheating husband's double life racked up more than 23 million views in its first month, reaching the top ten in 62 countries, including the US, and the number one spot in almost two dozen countries. The Polygamist, set in Johannesburg, centers on a wealthy Black family, the Gomoras, and follows the matriarch Joyce as she tries to keep up appearances as her businessman husband Jonasi sets up house with another woman. Over the course of the 22 episodes vicious catfights break out, homes are set alight, there's a lot of sex and swearing, and all the incredible twists and turns are enough to give the viewer whiplash. Even celebrities have been taking to social media to rave about the series, including for...