Dear Sis Dolly arrives in cinemas on 3 July, celebrating love, community and the iconic Drum Magazine agony aunt through laughter and heart.
South African audiences are in for a heartfelt cinematic experience when Dear Sis Dolly arrives in cinemas nationwide on 3 July 2026. Produced by Known Associates Entertainment, the family comedy-drama pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Drum Magazine and its iconic agony aunt column, Sis Dolly, while delivering a moving story about community, healing and self-discovery.
Directed by Twiggy Matiwana and written by Makganwana Mokgalong, the film follows Khethiwe, an idealistic psychologist determined to save her beloved community mental health centre from closure. Faced with mounting financial pressure, she enters a competition to become Drum Magazine’s next Sis Dolly, hoping the opportunity will secure the future of the centre she has dedicated her life to building.
What begins as a professional challenge quickly becomes a personal journey. As Khethiwe dispenses advice to others, she is forced to confront her own emotional wounds, rediscover the importance of family and open herself up to the possibility of love.
Leading the cast is award-winning actress Didintle Khunou as Khethiwe, supported by an impressive ensemble that includes Dineo Langa, S’thandiwe Kgoroge, Natasha Thahane, Brighton Ngoma, Jerry Mofokeng-Makhetha and legendary performer Abigail Kubeka.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the film, director Twiggy Matiwana described Drum Magazine as a defining part of her childhood.
“At the very heart of that legacy was Sis Dolly — the ultimate agony aunt to the nation. She was the keeper of our deepest secrets, answering our collective cries for help with a legendary mix of fierce empathy and no-nonsense tough love.”
For producer and Known Associates Group founder Tshepiso Chikapa Phiri, the film is a celebration of a beloved South African institution.
“We are proud to have brought this nostalgic, formidable South African modern love letter to life. I cannot imagine anyone in this country who does not know and love Sis Dolly from Drum Magazine.”
The project also marks a significant milestone for renowned entrepreneur and advertising pioneer Peter Vundla, who makes his feature film debut as Executive Producer.
With its blend of humour, romance and emotional depth, Dear Sis Dolly promises to resonate with audiences of all ages. More than just a comedy, it is a story about finding healing through community, embracing vulnerability and discovering that sometimes the advice we give others is exactly what we need ourselves.
Dear Sis Dolly opens at Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro cinemas nationwide on Friday, 3 July 2026, offering audiences a proudly South African story filled with laughter, heart and soul.
