Thembinkosi Brian Mthembu (born 31 July 1994) is a South African actor. He is best known for his roles in the popular serials Shaka Ilembe, The River, The Gamechangers, Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu and a short film called Ngeculo.
After completing his diploma, Thembinkosi moved to Johannesburg to pursue his acting career. Upon his arrival in the âÂÂCity of GoldâÂÂ, he worked at Checkers and Cell C as a dancer. During this period, he received the minor role of 'Junior' in the television series The Republic. He thereafter appeared in the series The River playing the role of 'Mabutho' in the third season.
In 2019, he played a recurring role as 'Shift Manager' on the MTV Base drama series MTV Shuga Down South 2.
In 2023, he received the opportunity to play a major role on South African Showmax series Shaka Ilembe, Adulting and Outlaws.
In June 2024, Mthembu received a Best Actor nomination by the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards for his role in Shaka Ilembe. In October 2024 Mthembu won Best Actor at the SAFTAs for his role as King Dingiswayo.
Thembinkosi was born on 17 July 1994 in the township of KwaNdengezi, Durban, South Africa. In 2017, he obtained a diploma in Drama and Production from the Durban University of Technology.
! |- |2024 |Himself |Best Actor TV | |
! |- |rowspan=2|2024 |rowspan=2|Himself |Best Supporting Actor in a Telenovela | |rowspan=2| |- |Best Actor in a TV Drama |