Sindi Dlathu Bags Sixth SAFTA Nomination for ‘The River’ Role

The 18th Annual South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) nominations have been announced, and seasoned actress Sindi Dlathu has secured her sixth nomination for Best Actress, once again for her captivating portrayal of Lindiwe Dlamini-Dikana in The River. Known to fans as “Madlabantu,” her character is ruthless, cunning, and relentless in her pursuit of power and wealth—a role that has solidified Dlathu’s place as one of the most dynamic actresses in South African television.

Since the first season of The River, Dlathu has earned a SAFTA nomination for Best Actress every year, a testament to her unwavering commitment, exceptional talent, and passion for her craft. This year marks her sixth nod in the category, an achievement that continues to raise the bar. In 2023, she made history by breaking the record for the most SAFTA nominations for a single role across all seasons of a show. Out of these nominations, she has already claimed the award twice.

Now that The River has reached its sixth and final season, Dlathu has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on South African television. Her portrayal of the villainous Lindiwe has made her a household name, and her impeccable performances have made her a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Fans and industry professionals alike are celebrating Dlathu’s latest nomination, calling it well-deserved. Many have watched her bring depth and nuance to her character, Lindiwe, who has kept audiences captivated with her ruthless pursuit of power. Social media is abuzz with excitement, with many of her supporters rooting for another win.

This year, Dlathu faces tough competition in the Best Actress category, with nominations also going to Zikhona Sodlaka for her role in Gqeberha: The Empire, and the late Connie Chiume for her iconic portrayal of Mam Sonto in Gomora.