Abdul Khoza Reveals How He Covers His Tattoos and Ageing Process for ‘Shaka iLembe’ Role

• A makeup artist shared behind-the-scenes footage showing Abdul Khoza's makeover for his character Ciji on Shaka iLembe
• Khoza revealed that the transformation took two hours and expressed gratitude to the makeup team for making it happen
• Fans and celebrities, as well as the daughter of a famous filmmaker, praised Khoza and the makeup team

Beloved actor Abdul Khoza shared behind-the-scenes footage of how he covers his tattoos and transforms into an older version of his character, Ciji, on Shaka iLembe. The video left several viewers of the historical drama series stunned as they were unaware that Abdul Khoza’s tattoos were covered.

Shaka iLembe Season 2 has won the hearts of critics and fans with back-to-back blockbuster episodes, which have earned some of its cast members applause for their outstanding performances. The production of the show has been praised for its high value, and Abdul Khoza has shared behind-the-scenes footage of how he transforms for his role as the fearless warrior Ciji.

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Abdul Khoza's Shaka iLembe makeover revealed

Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, renowned makeup artist House of Queen shared footage of how they cover up Abdul Khoza’s tattoos and make him look older for his role on Shaka iLembe. The post was captioned:

“Watch how we transform modern day to ancient history #shakailembe2”

The makeup artists use a multi-step process which involves colour correction, layering and sealing to create a natural skin-like appearance. They make Abdul Khoza appear older by applying temporary grey dye and hair accessories.

Watch the video below:

In the comments section, Abdul Khoza shared more details on the transformation session, revealing that it took two hours. He expressed gratitude to the make-up artists for making his dream a reality. Khoza said:

“I would do this 2-hour session over and over if I had to. Thank you to you and the entire team, because without you, I may not have been on this epic show. You made it possible for me to be part of history, and I love you all so much. The best of the best..🙇🏿”

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Netizens react to Abdul Khoza's transformation for 'Shaka iLembe'

In the comments, fans and celebrities such as Tbo Touch and the daughter of filmmaker Connie Ferguson, Lesedi, praised Abdul Khoza and the House of Queen for their sterling work.

Here are some of the comments:

tbotouch gushed:

“You’re a rare talent, Bro.”

vuvu.maseti said:

“Great team, nicely done 👌🏾”

sediimatsunyane shared:

“Hands down one of the best coverups I’ve seen in this country 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽”

melissa_mbele remarked:

“I didn’t notice that it was covered until now 😆”

candidamosoma responded:

“I can’t say how incredible you are enough! I’m always in awe of you and your talent❤️”

nto_mafu said:

“Yho, you are the best😮🙆- I actually forgot he has tattoos. Completely forgot 🔥”

Is Shaka iLembe misleading viewers?

Shaka iLembe has been accused of misleading viewers by several historians. The second season, which premiered on 15 June 2025, has had fans and critics sharing their thoughts on the portrayal of some historical figures.

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Historians and the Zulu royal family blasted the show after intimate scenes of Mkabayi Ka Jama, portrayed by award-winning actress Dawn Thandeka King, and Nongila Mabaso were aired on the show's first two episodes.

The show was being accused of portraying Mkabayi as a loose woman, but Zulu history never tells the story of Mkabayi getting married or having children.

Several historians have also come out guns blazing against Shaka iLembe for its alleged misinterpretation of Ndwandwe history. Ukhozi FM presenter and historian Tshatha Ngobe recently argued that Inkosi Zwide didn’t stay at his father's Gugunkomo Royal Palace as depicted in Shaka iLembe Season 2.

Thapelo Mokoena shows transformation for Fatal Seduction

Another veteran actor who left fans stunned with their onscreen transformation was Thapelo Mokoena.

Briefly News reported that Thapelo Mokoena shared a behind-the-scenes photo revealing his makeover for his role on the hit Netflix series Fatal Seduction. In a post shared on Thursday, 24 July 2025, Mokoena shared how he will look in Season 2 of the series.

Source: Briefly News