Youngins Final Season Drops Friday as Lead Star Reflects on Impact

JOHANNESBURG — 17 September 2025

The third and final season of Showmax hit Youngins premieres this Friday, 19 September 2025. Record-breaking viewership has cemented the series as a cultural touchstone, particularly for young LGBTQIA+ viewers connected to Lebohang Lephatsoana’s character Tumelo.

Lephatsoana described playing Tumelo as “life changing,” telling Showmax: “Playing Tumelo has been an incredible journey, not just because of the story I get to tell, but because of how deeply it resonates with viewers. A lot of young people, especially queer youth, look up to the characters we play. This was my first big break in the industry, and I’m grateful to be telling a story that matters.”

He believes the show encourages mindfulness among teens: “It’s okay to enjoy your youth – but do it mindfully and with caution.”

Season 3 escalates tensions between Tumelo and closeted boyfriend Sefako. Lephatsoana teased: “If viewers thought their relationship hit rock bottom in Season 2: brace yourselves! Things get even more chaotic this season.” He confirmed both characters share blame for their turmoil.

The actor called portraying Tumelo’s drug addiction his toughest challenge: “It was emotionally and physically exhausting… I often wanted to escape to the Vaal… playing someone spiralling into drug use pushed me beyond my limits.”

Asked what advice he’d give the Olifantsfontein High students frequently entangled in scandals, he laughed: “Forget about playing heroes and focus on your education. While it’s admirable to want to save everyone, it’s not realistic.”

Lephatsoana praised his fellow cast members: “It’s been an emotional and unforgettable journey… I’ve built real friendships that I truly value. These are such talented young actors.”

Youngins season 3 streams exclusively on Showmax from 19 September.