When James Omokwe, the executive producer of Cheta’M, was asked to describe his emotions following the release of the Showmax Nigeria Original, he called it his best work yet – a telenovela that ‘radiates beauty on all levels.’
That sentiment captures the essence of a series that has quickly become a standout amongst many epic dramas of late.
At the heart of Cheta’M lies the star-crossed love story of Adanna (Oluchi Amajuoyi) and Nnanna (Kingsley Nwachukwu), two young protagonists whose relationship is relentlessly tested by both spiritual and political forces. The first season set the stage with mounting tensions between the kingdoms of Mgberi and Ajaani, resulting in dramatic events that shattered lives and loyalties.
In the ongoing Season 2, the stakes escalate as the conflict erupts into full-blown war. King Jideofor of Ajanni (Kalu Ikeagwu) emerges victorious, defeating Mgberi, dismantling their people and structures, and seizing their land. Amidst this power struggle, Jideofor also reunites with and marries his ‘long-lost love,’ Kamharida (Valerie Odunkwe), adding another layer of intrigue to the power dynamics.
Through it all, Adanna and Nnanna’s journey endures. Their love faces new trials inclusive of forgotten memories and more forces that threaten to tear them apart.
The cast delivers performances that elevate this material. Oluchi Amajuoyi and Kingsley Nwachukwu, as Adanna and Nnanna, bring palpable chemistry to their roles, anchoring the series with emotional depth. Yet, other cast members do not fade into the background. Nonso Odogwu and Kalu Ikeagwu, portraying the rival kings, deliver their characters with gravitas and complexity. Kalu Ikeagwu, in particular, plays a dual role that keeps everyone at the edge of their seats. Supporting roles, from the cunning Ojigijaga (Jsmile Uhuru) to the conflicted Queen Mkpulumma (Ugonna Okore), enrich the story, ensuring that no subplot feels unnecessary.
Cheta’M distinguishes itself through more than just strong acting. The dialogue is authentic, and the pacing, appropriate. The show’s direction is meticulous, balancing intimate character moments with sweeping visuals that celebrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The series resists the temptation to fall back on archetypes, instead offering characters and storylines that feel both specific and universal.
Adanna’s spiritual foresight and struggle with amnesia, paired with Nnanna’s journey from obscurity to leadership, provide a poignant exploration of identity and fate. Ojigijaga, the Mgberi’s chief priest’s schemes add a layer of intrigue that keeps the stakes high throughout.
It is no surprise that Cheta’M received nominations for Best Scripted Series and Best Writing – TV Series (Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi) at this year’s Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. The show’s blend of romance, political intrigue, and mythology set a new standard for epic drama in Nollywood, bridging the sensibilities of old and new Nigerian cinema.
In an industry seeking fresh perspectives and authentic voices, Cheta’M stands out as a masterclass in long-form storytelling. Cheta’M is an epic drama series that honours tradition while pushing the boundaries of what Nigerian film and TV can achieve.
