There is just under a month until Mzansi Magic's (DStv 161) epic historical drama Shaka iLembe premieres. As the big day draws closer, Mzansi Magic shared an all-you-need-to-know guide for viewers as they continue the countdown.

Shaka iLembe premieres on the channel's prime time slot of 20:00 on Sunday, 18 June. The epic historical drama, set in the 1700s, tells the story of the making of the iconic Zulu king with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood.

Animals

From Nguni cattle to a horse, leopard, hyena, springbok, lion and elephant, the trailers have given viewers a glimpse of the wide variety of animals they can expect to see in the drama.

Costumes

More than 2000 costumes were made in the production, with more than 8000 strings of beads and more than 420 hairstyles and wigs used as well.

Dawn Thandeka King

The award-winning actor, known for her work on Uzalo, DiepCity and Lockdown, plays Princess Mkabayi kaJama. She is King Jama's daughter and sister to King Senzangakhona.

Click 'read more' for everything you need to know about the show.