There’s something special about seeing on-screen couples who share such great chemistry that it makes fans wonder if their connection goes beyond the screen.

While it’s not always true that actors who play romantic roles together end up dating in real life, some South African actors have indeed met their significant others while working on set.

Here, we’re diving into some of South Africa’s beloved on-screen-to-off-screen couples who found love on set. And if we missed any, let us know in the comments below! Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more stories like this.

1. Luyanda Zwane and Sparky Xulu

Luyanda Zwane, known for her roles as Vundlakazi in Shaka iLembe and Sibongile in Sibongile and the Dlaminis, is reportedly dating Sparky Xulu, whom she met on the set of Redemption. In Redemption, Xulu took on a lead role, and it was there that their real-life love story began.

However, their relationship has stirred some discussion because of their age difference. Zwane is only turning 20 this year, while Xulu is in his 30s. The two’s romance has sparked mixed reactions, with some fans questioning their age gap. Despite this, they remain one of the industry’s newest couples.

2. Sabelo Ernest Radebe and Kgaogelo Monama

This duo found love while working together on Smoke and Mirrors, where Sabelo plays Magolide and Kgaogelo takes on the role of Pertunia. Unlike some of the other couples on this list, Smoke and Mirrors marked the first time they acted on the same set. Their chemistry on-screen has clearly transferred off-screen as well, as the pair have openly shared snippets of their relationship on Instagram and Facebook, showcasing their vacations and shared moments. Fans love their openness and are hopeful that their love will last, even though mixing business and pleasure can sometimes be a tricky balance.

3. Wanda Zuma and Shalate Sekhabi

This rumored couple features Wanda Zuma and Shalate Sekhabi, stars of House of Zwide. The two have not officially confirmed their relationship, but rumors have been circulating for some time. Fans have spotted them attending private functions together and getting cozy, leading many to believe they are indeed an item.

Adding fuel to the fire, Sekhabi recently released a song titled Can’t You See, where she cast Zuma as her love interest in the music video. This detail didn’t go unnoticed by fans, who speculated that the message was meant for Zuma. In an interesting twist, their characters on House of Zwide are actually married, which might have helped bring them closer in real life as well.

4. JT Medupe and Lebogang Mthunzi

JT Medupe and Lebogang Mthunzi are a seasoned couple compared to others on this list. They met in 2014 while playing siblings, Jonathan Motene and Angela Mogale, on Generations: The Legacy. Their relationship has stood the test of time, lasting over 10 years now.

Unlike newer couples, they have a child together and continue to share their love with fans. Their enduring love story is both inspiring and refreshing, proving that relationships in the entertainment industry can thrive. JT and Lebogang’s dedication to each other and to raising their child together serves as a true example of couple goals.

5. Masandi and Thuthuka Mthembu

Fans of Uzalo will be thrilled to see Masandi and Thuthuka Mthembu on this list. In 2022, colleagues of the couple confirmed that the two were dating, a revelation that delighted their fans since they also played a couple on the show. Although they tried to keep things professional while working, those around them could see their connection.

They chose to keep their relationship private on social media, but friends and colleagues shared that the couple openly posted each other on their WhatsApp statuses. Although it’s unclear if they’re still together in 2024, fans continue to root for them, hoping they’re still going strong.

6. Hungani Ndlovu and Stephanie Sandows

One of South Africa’s favorite love stories, Hungani Ndlovu and Stephanie Sandows’ romance blossomed when they met on set. Stephanie, who played Ingrid on Scandal!, was also responsible for casting Hungani on the show. Initially a professional connection, their relationship took a romantic turn when Stephanie decided to take the first step and let Hungani know her feelings.

This relationship, in particular, encourages others not to be afraid to make the first move. Stephanie and Hungani eventually married and are now raising a child together. Their relationship, marked by love, respect, and mutual support, has become a fan-favorite, reminding fans that sometimes the best romances start when you least expect them.

These South African couples remind us that love can bloom in unexpected places—even under the watchful eyes of directors, producers, and viewers. Whether their relationships last a few months or a few decades, each couple shares a special bond formed on the sets of some of South Africa’s biggest TV shows.

Their stories are relatable and endearing, capturing the hearts of fans across the country. Who knows? Maybe there are more TV-set love stories that haven’t come to light yet. Let us know in the comments if there are any other South African on-screen couples you’ve seen together off-screen! And don’t forget to hit that subscribe button for more content like this.