Christians Debate Polygamy as Netflix Drama Sparks Renewed Discussion

AFRICA — A popular South African Netflix drama has renewed a long-running debate about polygamy and its place within African society and Christian communities. The 22-episode Zulu-language series, The Polygamist, tells the story of a Johannesburg businessman who has three wives, including one secret wife, as well as a mistress. The story follows the breakdown of his family and business relationships after his wives discover his infidelity. Released in June 2026, the series reportedly attracted more than 23 million views during its first month. It reached the top 10 most-viewed programs in 62 countries and ranked No. 1 in more than 20 countries. Its popularity has brought renewed attention to the issue of multiple-partner marriages, including among Christians. Some African Christians have said that the show can be watched as entertainment with appropriate discernment. Others, however, are concerned that its sexual content and portrayal of polygamy could make the practice appear normal or acceptable. Kenyan Christian influencer Tevin Macharia Mukabana has warned that the show's sexual themes could encourage desires that Christians are trying to overcome. Polygamy remains part of the social and cultural landscape in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Christianity Today reports that about 11 percent of people in the region live in polygamous households, with the figure rising to approximately 40 percent in West and Central Africa. Muslims and followers of traditional religions make up most polygamous households, although some Christians and pastors also practice polygamy. Most African churches oppose polygamy, and several pastors have spoken publicly against the practice, sometimes drawing on painful experiences from their own childhoods. Joshua Bolaji, pastor of Welkom Baptist Church in South Africa, grew up in a polygamous family in Nigeria. His father had three wives. Bolaji recalled witnessing serious tension between his mother and his father's first wife when he was a child. According to Bolaji, although the children generally got along, there was continuing conflict between the different households. His experience eventually caused him to question polygamy after he became a Christian. The cultural dimension of polygamy is particularly significant in parts of Nigeria and South Africa. In Nigeria, polygamy is recognized under customary law and represents a significant proportion of marriages. Among some Zulu and Nguni communities in South Africa, it has historically been associated with wealth, status and traditional identity. Pastor Revival Hlongwane of Riebeeckstad Baptist Church in South Africa said some people defend polygamy because they regard it as an inherited cultural practice. He explained that traditional religious beliefs can also influence the practice in some communities. Hlongwane said he believes the biblical model of marriage is a union between one man and one woman. However, he is cautious about directly describing polygamy as sinful because Scripture does not contain a simple statement explicitly using that term. Instead, he points to the negative consequences seen in biblical accounts involving figures such as David, Abraham and Solomon. The debate also raises concerns about the effects of polygamy on women and children. Critics argue that unequal relationships, economic pressures and family conflicts can leave vulnerable members of households particularly affected. The article highlights the experiences of Mariam Omar of Jos, Nigeria, who was born into a polygamous family. Her mother was her father's third wife and separated from him when Omar was an infant. Omar said the breakdown of her family left her feeling abandoned and contributed to deep resentment toward her parents. After becoming a Christian in 2021, Omar said her understanding of God's forgiveness helped her begin forgiving her family. Despite the pain associated with her childhood, she now prays for her father and hopes that he will eventually come to faith. There are also signs of cultural change. Nigeria experienced a reported decline in polygamy between 1990 and 2024. Researchers have suggested that missionary influence and increased economic independence among women may have contributed to the change. Nevertheless, some religious leaders continue to defend polygamy. In 2024, Nigerian religious leader Joseph Apata attracted public attention after revealing that he had three wives and arguing that his marriages were divinely authorized. He pointed to biblical figures such as David and Abraham as examples. Bolaji rejects that argument and points to 1 Timothy 3:2, which describes a church overseer as the husband of one wife. He said pastors have a responsibility to address the issue rather than avoid it simply because it is culturally sensitive. He also noted that economic hardship can sometimes contribute to the desire for polygamy. Women seeking financial security have occasionally approached him about becoming additional wives, but he said he refuses such proposals. Bolaji believes churches should provide clear biblical teaching on marriage. At the same time, he acknowledges that pastors face difficult questions when someone who is already in a polygamous marriage becomes a Christian. The renewed debate surrounding The Polygamist therefore extends beyond entertainment. It raises broader questions about Christian teaching, African culture, marriage, family relationships and the responsibility of churches to address culturally sensitive issues with biblical conviction and pastoral wisdom.