Nqobani Zuke, a 29-year-old actor celebrated for his portrayal of Simba in the renowned musical *The Lion King* in Hong Kong, recently reached an exciting milestone in his personal life.
On November 9, he tied the knot with his long-time partner, Nokwethemba Cele, in a beautiful South African ceremony.
Originally from Groutville, KwaZulu-Natal, Nqobani expressed his joy at the prospect of returning to Hong Kong as both a star and a newly married man.
Nqobani and Nokwethemba, who is from Umlazi, KZN, had been together for about a year and a half before deciding to marry. Despite the challenges of long-distance, Nqobani felt certain that Nokwethemba was his life partner, as their relationship only grew stronger with time.
“We’ve been together for about a year and a half, and I knew she was the one,” he told *Daily Sun.* “I need her by my side, so I made the decision to marry her and make our commitment official.”
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The timing was ideal, as Nqobani’s six-month contract with *The Lion King* in Hong Kong was nearing its end. Balancing his dedication to both his career and his relationship, he found a way to make both work seamlessly.
Nqobani’s journey as Simba began on May 20, 2023, when he signed a contract with Disney to join *The Lion King* cast in Hong Kong. This role marks a significant achievement in his career, bringing him recognition both in South Africa and internationally.
Despite his demanding role and the distance from home, he made the trip back to South Africa on November 1 to prepare for his wedding.
Their wedding day was a joyful celebration of love and tradition, attended by family and friends who gathered to support the couple. Nokwethemba wore traditional attire, honoring her heritage as she began this new chapter with Nqobani. Guests delighted in witnessing the couple’s commitment become official in a ceremony that truly reflected their unique bond.
After the wedding, the couple planned to travel back to Hong Kong together on November 12. Nqobani’s choice to bring Nokwethemba along illustrates his desire to have her by his side as he continues his international journey.
He shared his hopes for their future together: “Since I’ll be continuing my work in Hong Kong, I wanted her to be with me as my wife. I pray that God blesses our marriage.”
Now embarking on a new life in Hong Kong, the couple looks forward to shared experiences as they navigate both married life and living abroad. Nqobani finds comfort in knowing that he’ll have his strongest supporter, Nokwethemba, with him as he continues his role as Simba.
Their commitment is an example of how modern couples balance love and career across continents.
Nqobani’s work with Disney fulfills a long-held dream, and he is excited to have Nokwethemba join him on this adventure. Their journey resonates with many who face similar challenges balancing work and personal relationships.
This new chapter is filled with both fresh challenges and rewards as they settle into their life together in Hong Kong. Fans of *The Lion King* now have even more reason to celebrate, as Nqobani’s real-life love story adds depth to his on-stage performance.
As Nqobani moves forward with Nokwethemba by his side, he remains deeply thankful for the support of his family, friends, and fans.
Reflecting on his happiness and optimism for the future, he shared, “I need her by my side, and I am hopeful for everything we will accomplish together.”
Their wedding day symbolizes the beginning of a promising journey, showcasing their dedication to each other despite the distance they’ve overcome.
For now, they look forward to building a life in Hong Kong, where Nqobani will continue captivating audiences as Simba, with his new wife supporting him every step of the way.
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