Nomathemba “Thembisile” Matu, popularly known as Thembsie Matu, is a renowned South African actress and television presenter with an acting career spanning over three decades. She is widely celebrated for her standout role as Petronella Nomabongo Zulu in the popular Mzansi Magic series The Queen. Her exceptional comedic talent, vibrant screen presence, and relatable characters have earned her a lasting place in the hearts of South African TV audiences.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Nomathemba “Thembisile” Matu |
| Date of Birth | 1966 (Age 58–59) |
| Place of Birth | Katlehong, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng |
| Partner | Peter Sebotsa (deceased 2019) |
| Children | Namosa Matu (daughter); Neo/Unathi Matu (son) |
| Occupations | Actress, Television Presenter |
| Net Worth | Approx. $100,000 USD |
Early Life and Education
Born in 1966 in Katlehong, a large township in Gauteng Province, South Africa, Thembsie was raised by her mother after her father left the family during her childhood.
Her passion for acting was ignited when she attended a theatre production by esteemed playwright Gibson Kente during her school years in her hometown. This sparked her desire to pursue a career in the performing arts.
Career
Thembsie Matu began her professional journey on stage in 1987 with the play Sekunjalo, produced by Gibson Kente. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, she featured in numerous theatrical productions, showcasing her versatility and talent.
She transitioned to television with a role in the 1994 series Mama’s Love. Her television career grew steadily as she landed various roles in series such as Tshisa, The Lab, Zone 14, Gaz’lam, Home Affairs, Zero Tolerance, and Rhythm City.
In 2009, she appeared in the comedy film Finding Lenny and had various television roles in the following years. The role that brought her widespread recognition was Petronella in The Queen, which she portrayed from 2017 to 2021, becoming one of the show’s most beloved characters.
In addition to acting, Matu featured in a well-known advertisement for Doom insecticide and co-hosted the lifestyle show Fragrance Your Life in 2019. Her recent work includes playing Sheila in the 2025 Mzansi Magic series Cobrizi, a spinoff from The River.
Personal Life
Thembsie was married to Peter Sebotsa, an Anglican minister, for 36 years until his tragic death by drowning in their swimming pool in June 2019.
She is a mother of two: her daughter Namosa, who is pursuing a career in music, and her son Neo (Unathi), an actor and engineering graduate from the University of Cape Town.
In 2021, Thembsie faced a serious health challenge when she contracted COVID-19 and was hospitalized for five weeks but made a full recovery. Known for her outgoing and warm personality, she remains a relatable figure both on and off screen.
Net Worth
Thembsie Matu’s estimated net worth is around $100,000 USD (approximately 1.5 million South African Rand), accrued through her extensive career in film and television. Her role in The Queen notably boosted her earnings and popularity, solidifying her status as a respected and successful actress within South Africa’s entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Tshisa | Nomathamsanqa | TV Series |
| 2006 | Zone 14 | Aunt Napho | TV Series |
| 2006 | Gaz’lam | Woman 3 | TV Series |
| 2006 | Home Affairs | Nolitha | TV Series |
| 2006 | Zero Tolerance | Stella Hadebe | TV Series |
| 2006 | The Lab | Zinhle | TV Series |
| 2007 | Jacob’s Cross | Rebecca | TV Series |
| 2007 | Nomzamo | Gladys | TV Series |
| 2008 | Rhythm City | Sis Bee | TV Series |
| 2008 | uGugu no Andile | Teacher | TV Series |
| 2009 | Finding Lenny | Big Momma | Film |
| 2011 | Intsika | Novezake | TV Series |
| 2011 | Soul Buddyz | Mrs Vilakazi | TV Series |
| 2011 | The Wild | Gertrude | TV Series |
| 2012 | Moferefere Lenyalong | Boreng | TV Series |
| 2013 | Rockville | Sis Ribs | TV Series |
| 2017 | The Queen | Petronella Nomabongo Zulu | TV Series |
| 2024 | Lobola Man | Aunt Miriam | Film |
| 2025 | Cobrizi | Sheila | TV Series |
Awards and Nominations
Thembsie Matu has been honored for her impactful contributions to television and film. She received a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 2014 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) for her role in Rockville.
In 2018, she won the Ultimate Viewers’ Choice Award and Favourite Actress Award at the DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards, reflecting her immense popularity.
She was also nominated for Diva Extraordinaire of the Year at the 2018 Feather Awards, underscoring her influence in South African entertainment.
