Presley Chweneyagae, best known for his iconic role as Thuso ‘Cobra’ Mokoena in the hit series The River, is set to make a triumphant return in the much-anticipated spin-off, Cobrizi. The 13-episode drama, which will premiere on Mzansi Magic in March 2025, promises to deliver an engaging narrative filled with grit, emotion, and hope. This new chapter in Cobra’s story takes viewers on a journey through his efforts to prove his worth as a father while battling the scars of his tumultuous past. As Cobra navigates the harsh realities of inner-city Johannesburg, he unexpectedly finds love, setting the stage for a complex exploration of survival, redemption, and personal growth.
The show builds on the character viewers have come to know and love from The River, with Cobra’s fiery and troubled persona still at the forefront. Despite the attempts to escape his demons, Cobra remains a man shaped by hardship, a fierce hustler burdened with anger towards a system he believes has abandoned him. His journey in Cobrizi is one of emotional transformation, where his resilience begins to shine through, offering a glimpse of hope. As he struggles with his vices—alcohol, women, and the lure of taverns—Cobra’s path becomes a reflection of the possibility of change, provided he is given the opportunity to evolve.
Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net, speaks to the core of Cobrizi’s appeal, highlighting how the show resonates with audiences. “Cobra’s story deeply connected with our Mzansi Magic viewers because it offered a contrast between the glamorous world of the Dlamini-Dikanas and the harsh realities faced by the Mokoenas. It’s a story that speaks to resilience, the strength of community, and the enduring power of hope,” she explains. The spin-off aims to delve deeper into Cobra’s world, exploring whether the anger that has defined much of his life can transform into the determination needed to build a better future for himself and those around him.
The series promises to bring back familiar characters from The River, including Thapelo Sebogodi as Kabzela, Cobra’s loyal best friend, and Thembsie Matu as Ous Sheila, along with Winnie Ntshaba. The cast also introduces new faces, with Sivenathi Mabuya as Bongiwe, Paul Maila as Rajah, and Ishmauel Songo as Peanut. These returning and fresh faces will add richness and depth to the unfolding story, further immersing viewers in the world of Cobra and his community. The dynamic between the old and new characters will be central to the story as Cobra’s relationships are tested, both in terms of loyalty and his personal growth.
Cobrizi marks a significant step forward for the talented cast and the creative team behind the scenes, particularly Tshedza Pictures, which is responsible for bringing this compelling series to life. The production company has earned a reputation for creating engaging, high-quality dramas, and Cobrizi looks set to continue this tradition. The show’s intricate storytelling and complex character arcs promise to captivate audiences, drawing them into Cobra’s world where every decision carries weight and every moment of change feels hard-won.
As Cobrizi prepares to hit screens in 2025, it’s clear that Cobra’s journey is far from over. The spin-off offers a deeper, more nuanced exploration of a character who has become one of South Africa’s most beloved TV figures. With a mix of heartache, triumph, and the unrelenting pursuit of personal redemption, Cobrizi is set to offer viewers a story that is both familiar and refreshingly new, while staying true to the themes of survival, love, and community that made The River such a success.
