Showmax has officially dropped the trailer for the highly anticipated third season of its record-breaking teen drama Youngins — and confirmed that this will also be its final season, streaming from September 19, 2025, with three episodes released weekly.
Having made history as the most-viewed title on its first day on the revamped African streamer, Youngins has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, thanks to its authentic storytelling, queer-positive representation, and its nurturing of fresh local talent.
“Honestly, yes!” says casting director and actress Keneilwe Matidze, when asked if she expected the show’s popularity. “During auditions, the energy was electric… The talent was off the charts, and the story, as pitched by Tshedza Productions, promised something special.”
Casting gold: From queer icons to rising stars
Matidze, who also portrays the vivacious teacher Pearl, explains how the now-celebrated cast came together. Her eye for dynamic, relatable talent is evident in how the ensemble clicks — from Lebo Lephotsoana’s infectiously positive Tumelo, to Thabiso Ramotshela’s emotionally resonant Mahlatse, and Tshepo Matlala’s scene-stealing turn as Tshepo.
“We needed triple threats – kids who could act, sing, and dance,” she says. “Lebo was always dancing, full of life and positivity. Tumelo is the glue in the friendship group, and Lebo naturally fits that role.”
Casting decisions also helped push boundaries. “With Katlego Moloke, I mistakenly thought he was a girl,” she recalls. “He said, ‘Yeah, but Tumelo is gay, and I’m gay.’ That moment humbled me and reminded me how much South Africa has changed.”
As the Youngins casting evolved, so too did the friendships and chemistry between cast members — both on and off screen.
“I truly had fun working with such talented young people,” Matidze adds. “Actors often face judgments from the public, forgetting that they are simply portraying fictional characters. But from casting through the entire season, Amo handled her role with immense grace.”
The final bell rings: Why Season 3 hits harder than ever
The final season promises an even bolder narrative, tackling growing pains and life choices with the rawness and honesty fans have come to love. According to Showmax, the show has consistently delivered “Stories Shaping South Africa Today”, offering viewers a window into youth experiences often overlooked in mainstream media.
Youngins Season 1 and 2 were among the Top 10 most-streamed titles on Showmax in 2024, sitting alongside The Real Housewives of Durban and the true-crime hit Tracking Thabo Bester.
Before the Olifants 5 sign off, fans can catch up on past seasons and witness the birth of a youth-driven classic.
Catch up & stream:
- New to the show? Season 1 is airing on Mzansi Wethu, DStv Channel 163, Wed–Fri at 7PM.
- Watch the Season 3 Trailer: YouTube – Official Showmax Channel
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Ready for the final bell? Set your reminder for September 19, 2025 — because Youngins is about to sign off with one last unforgettable season.
