In a city where hashtags shine brighter than streetlights, the hustle has never looked this good—or this dangerous. Netflix is turning up the heat with its upcoming South African crime-drama series, Bad Influencer, premiering on 31 October 2025.
This 7-part series is a stylish, sharp look at the double-edged world of online fame and underground hustle. Think luxury handbags, fake glitz, and the very real danger of getting caught.
A Con, an Influencer, and a Dangerous Game
When BK (played by Jo-Anne Reyneke)—a small-time con artist and single mom—runs out of options, she partners with Pinky (Cindy Mahlangu), a wannabe luxury influencer. Their plan? Sell fake designer bags online and make some quick cash.
But in true Joburg fashion, nothing stays under wraps for long. Their scheme attracts the wrong kind of attention—most notably from Bra Alex (Vincent Mahlape), a kingpin in a counterfeiting ring, and law enforcement who are ready to pounce.
All-Star Cast Meets Real-World Glam
The series is packed with some of the country’s biggest names. Expect appearances from Zozibini Tunzi, Hamilton Dlamini, Aubrey Poo, Lerato Nxumalo, and cameos from top influencers like Mihlali Ndamase (@mihlalii_n), Sarah Langa, and Mohale Motaung.
It’s the first series to emerge from Realness Institute and Netflix’s Episodic Lab—an exciting move for local storytelling with global reach.
Behind the Scenes
The show is created by Kudi Maradzika and produced by Gambit Films. It’s directed by Keitumetse Qhali and Ari Kruger, with a writing team led by Maradzika and Daniel Zimbler, alongside Sydney Dire.
Executive producers include Maradzika, Nosipho Ngoasheng Dumisa, Bradley Joshua, Benjamin Overmeyer, Simon Beesley, Travis Taute, and Daryne Joshua. Daniel Zimbler serves as co-executive producer.
A Joburg Story with Global Swagger
Bad Influencer isn’t just another crime show. It’s a mirror held up to a generation chasing clout and cash, where a fake luxury bag can be the ticket out—or a one-way street to trouble.
Stream Bad Influencer on Netflix from 31 October 2025.
