Fans of The River will be excited to hear that Presley Chweneyagae, known for his role as Thuso ‘Cobra’ Mokoena, is back in a new spin-off series called Cobrizi. The anticipated show will premiere on Mzansi Magic in March 2025.
Cobrizi follows Cobra as he tries to turn his life around for the sake of his youngest child. He wants to prove that he is not a loser and that he can be a good father. After moving to inner-city Johannesburg, Cobra unexpectedly finds love. However, this is not easy for him. He starts off as the same troubled and angry man that viewers remember from The River. Cobra has always been a survivor, but his past includes theft and hustling to get by.
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His anger comes from a failed social system that has kept him trapped in poverty. This fuels his desire for radical change. Although he still enjoys beer, women, and hanging out at taverns, there is a chance for Cobra to evolve if he is given the opportunity to fight for a better life.
Shirley Adonisi, the Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net, shared why Cobra’s story is so important. She said, “Cobra’s story really resonated with our Mzansi Magic viewers because it shows the glamorous lives of the Dlamini-Dikanas compared to the struggles of the Mokoenas. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and community. Presley brings depth and humour to the character, and this series will look deeper into his world and see if he can focus his anger into determination to create a better life.”
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The cast of Cobrizi includes familiar faces from The River. Thapelo Sebogodi will return as Kabzela, Cobra’s best friend. Winnie Ntshaba will also join the cast. They will be joined by award-winning actress Thembsie Matu as Ous Sheila, Sivenathi Mabuya as Bongiwe, Paul Maila as Rajah, Ishmauel Songo as Peanut, Chrispen Nyathi as Raisin, and many more.
