We are delighted to highlight the contribution of AFDA alumni to the brand-new crime-drama series Bad Influencer, which premiered globally on Netflix on 31 October 2025. The impact of Bad Influencer has been immediate and impressive. Shortly after its launch on Netflix, the show shot to No. 1 on the Netflix Top 10 list in South Africa and No. 3 globally. Now there is something to talk about!!!
AFDA alumni have key roles behind the scenes and on screen. The series is executive-produced by AFDA alumni: Simon Beesley, Nosipho Dumisa, Daryne Joshua and Travis Taute, through their company Gambit Films. AFDA alumna Keitumetse Qhali picks up the director credit on the series and AFDA alumnus Thapelo Mokoena plays the key role of Themba.
Set in Johannesburg, Bad Influencer tells the story of BK (played by Jo Anne Reyneke), a single mother who partners with rising social media influencer Pinky (played by Cindy Mahlangu) to sell counterfeit luxury handbags. Their entrepreneurial hustle takes them deep into a dangerous world of image, crime and survival.
Congratulations to all AFDA alumni involved in Bad Influencer. Your achievement elevates the AFDA brand and strengthens our collective creative ecosystem. We also recognise the entire production team for bringing this vibrant South African story to streamers around the world.