Netflix recently released the fourth season of the popular South African series, Blood & Water. Over time, the show, centred around two young women who uncover a hidden connection between their families, has built a strong and loyal fanbase on the platform.
The latest season, which made its debut on March 1, promises an even more intense storyline for viewers.
Old faces and fresh arrivals ignite drama at Parkhurst College (Photo: Blood and Water Season 4/Gambit Films)Who Features in ‘Blood & Water’ Season 4?
The main characters, Ama Qamata (Puleng Khumalo) and Khosi Ngema (Fikile Bhele), return to their familiar roles for the new season. Joining them once again are other familiar faces such as Thabang Molaba (Karabo “KB” Molapo), Natasha Thahane (Wendy Diamini), Dillon Windvogel (Wade Daniels), Arno Greeff (Christopher Ackerman), Gail Mabalane (Thandeka Khumalo), Leroy Siyafa (Sam Nikosana), Mekaila Mathys (Tahira Kahn), Odia Gwanya (Siya Khumalo), and Mpho Sibeko (Lunga).
New additions include Wanda Banda, who joins the cast as Asanda Makeba, and André Lamoglia from Élite, playing Iván Cruz Carvalho after a previous crossover episode involving Fikile in Season 7 of Élite.
Plot Summary for ‘Blood & Water’ Season 4
This time, Blood & Water moves away from its earlier focus on family secrets, shifting attention to a deeply personal issue from the past involving one of the lead characters. Puleng finds herself under pressure when someone blackmails her during the Molapo trial.
Matters worsen when this individual secretly records her intimate encounter with Iván, the new exchange student from Spain’s Las Encinas. Soon, Fikile is also drawn into the blackmail, though she seems to have an idea about the identity of the culprit.
Throughout the course of the season, it becomes clear that the root of the blackmail dates back several years when Fikile unknowingly participated in the bullying of a fellow student named Damian, known mainly by his alias PoolBoy.
He had been new to the swim team and was mistreated by older students, particularly Gregory Dickinson. Damian’s motive for targeting Puleng and Fikile is linked to his near-death experience during the hazing, which left him resentful. Though Fikile’s involvement was minor, Damian believed she could have acted to prevent the tragedy.
Feeling abandoned and seeing no justice served, Damian embarked on a mission to get revenge against both Fikile and Gregory. Fikile, concerned about her reputation and fearing legal trouble, was pressured by her mother and KB’s father, Matla, to cover up the incident.
Are Puleng and Fikile Saved at the End of Season 4?
Damian’s actions reach a boiling point by the end of the season when he kidnaps Fikile. Puleng, along with their friends, mobilizes quickly to rescue her, even resorting to taking Gregory along with them.
Eventually, Puleng and Gregory also become Damian’s captives during the rescue attempt. Despite the danger, they all manage to escape, and Puleng and Fikile succeed in convincing Damian to abandon his plan to harm himself after the confrontation.
Does Puleng End Up With Iván From ‘Élite’ in Season 4?
Puleng’s relationship with Iván comes to an early end in the fourth season. After three episodes, Iván returns to Las Encinas and Spain, bringing their brief romance to a respectful and amicable close.
Do Puleng and KB Reunite in ‘Blood & Water’ Season 4?
Even though the series does not show an official reunion between Puleng and KB, strong hints are dropped in the season finale. Earlier in the final episode, the two nearly share a kiss after the chaotic events, suggesting that they may soon find their way back to one another.
Is ‘Blood & Water’ Preparing a Move to Johannesburg?
Hints about a new setting appear as the fourth season draws to a close. Thandeka receives a job offer in Johannesburg and discusses the possibility of relocating with Siya and Puleng.
Puleng faces blackmail threats as past mistakes resurface (Photo: Blood and Water Season 4/Gambit Films)Meanwhile, after Chris reveals he has been expelled, he expresses excitement about helping KB with his music ambitions in Johannesburg, suggesting a fresh start for some of the characters in a new city.
Which Students Graduate in ‘Blood & Water’ Season 4?
During the graduation ceremony in the final episode, several characters from Pankhurst High receive their diplomas. Tahira, KB, Fikile, Sam, and Wendy all graduate, marking an important milestone. Chris, on the other hand, does not graduate because of his earlier expulsion. Wade, Puleng, Asanda, and Leigh-Anne are still finishing their junior year.
Is Chris Involved With Wendy or Lunga?
By the end of the season, Chris is neither with Wendy nor Lunga. After Lunga confesses to Wendy about kissing Chris, Wendy decides to break up with Chris.
Her decision is influenced more by the dishonesty and growing realization that their relationship was not meant to last rather than the kiss itself. Nonetheless, they both agree to spend time together during the summer before going their separate ways.
How ‘Blood & Water’ Season 4 Comes to a Close
The season wraps up with a lively celebration, with the characters partying through the night following their graduation. A flash-forward shows some months later in Johannesburg.
Though it remains unclear whether Puleng and her family have officially moved, the final scene captures Puleng visiting KB at his new apartment, where they greet each other warmly after she knocks on his door.
Has ‘Blood & Water’ Been Confirmed for Season 5?
As of early March 2024, there is no confirmation on whether Blood & Water will be renewed for a fifth season. Although the fourth season resolves the major mysteries, hints about characters moving to Johannesburg and the possibility of Puleng and KB rekindling their relationship leave fans hopeful that the story may continue.
