Sue Nyathi's 'The Polygamist' becomes global Netflix sensation

Netflix's latest African hit, The Polygamist, continues to make waves globally, with the South African drama based on a novel by Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi climbing the international streaming charts and earning widespread acclaim from viewers around the world.

According to production company Stained Glass Productions, the series has become the number one show in 16 countries across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean and Asia, while also ranking among the most-watched programmes globally.

“At this point we're running out of ways to say THANK YOU," the company posted on X.

“The Polygamist isn't just topping charts at home anymore. We're now the #3 show globally on Netflix and the #1 show in 16 countries across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean and Asia. We appreciate you!"

The achievement marks another milestone for the 22-episode supernovela, which premiered globally on Netflix on June 12 and is adapted from Nyathi's acclaimed novel of the same name.

The drama follows the story of social media influencer Joyce Gomora, whose seemingly perfect life unravels after the infidelity and secret relationships of her husband, business tycoon Jonasi Gomora, are exposed. The series stars Gugu Gumede and Sdumo Mtshali in the lead roles.

Entertainment commentators and social media users have been tracking the show's rapid rise since its release.

Several online commentators reported that the series has maintained the number one position in countries including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Jamaica, Romania and Trinidad and Tobago, while also performing strongly in European markets such as Belgium, France, Hungary and Luxembourg.

The show's growing popularity has sparked comparisons with some of Netflix's most successful African productions.

“The Polygamist is not even 10 days since premier. I know it will surpass Blood and Water," one viewer posted on X, reflecting the enthusiasm that has surrounded the production since its launch.

Netflix itself has described the production as a major South African supernovela and one of its most ambitious local scripted projects, adapted from Nyathi's bestselling novel.

The series has also generated discussion beyond entertainment circles.

Health authorities in Gauteng used the programme's themes to promote HIV and sexually transmitted infection awareness, urging viewers to prioritise testing, treatment adherence and safer sexual practices.

In a social media message referencing the show's storyline, Gauteng health officials reminded the public that multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and encouraged people to know their status and seek treatment when necessary.

For Nyathi, the success of *The Polygamist* represents a remarkable journey from a self-published Zimbabwean novel to a globally streamed Netflix production watched by millions around the world. The adaptation has also renewed international interest in her literary work more than a decade after the book was first published.