South African television is about to get its first superhero - but the real star of the show is the city of Johannesburg. The locally produced television series Jongo debuts on DStv's BET channel next week.The series stars Pacou Mutombo, who plays the reluctant superhero Eli King, who is imbued with superpowers after he discovers an alien crystal left to him by his murdered miner father.King discovers the crystal in a cave at the Cradle of Humankind and what follows is the journey of a man with amplified strength and speed, and the ability to jump vast distances. He is bent on tracing his father's killers.Gareth Crocker, director and co-producer, said Jongo wouldn't be sporting spandex or a cape."There is no need for a costume. We believe there is a degree of cheesiness around superhero costumes. We want to avoid that. However, we can't rule out a costume in the future. But certainly not in season one."Jongo, which was shot in Johannesburg, could be used to promote the city.The series showcases its most picturesque features, such as the Telkom tower, the Cradle of Humankind and the night skyline.Although the story line is a first for Africa, the series couldn't stay away from the stereotypical antagonist or gorgeous, submissive girlfriends.Mutombo, a well known hip-hop dancer, gets the opportunity to showcase his primary talent in several scenes.Crocker said the aim of the series was to have both local and international appeal. However, Mutombo's character appears too mundane and lacks the believability that audiences expect of a superhero."Eli King is a very normal guy with money problems."We wanted to create an inspirational character, someone that could be a role model. We're trying to go back to the basics and create a young Nelson Mandela- type of person," said Crocker.Jongo will premiere on BET DStv channel 129 at 9.05pm next Monday...