Popular SABC 2 soapie “Muvhango” this January welcomes two new faces to its star studded cast.
Actress Gabisile Tshabalala will take over from Bontle Rampa, who portrayed Bubbles Mosipidi and actor and musician, Nicholas “Nick Soul” Nkuna who will portray the role of Khalema Semenya.
“I have joined a warm family that filled my heart, in a way I did not think I needed. I can feel like I am working in a team that loves each other,” says Tshabalala.
Tshabalala is set to make her debut as Bubbles, a receptionist at Hanyani Holdings on January 21. She spoke highly of her new production home, which has introduced her to a new experience.
“I have never joined a company that does actor workshops and team building for cast and crew. What Bab Duma Ndlovu is doing is commendable. I am replacing an existing character known as Bubbles, and usually, that’s a very tricky transition when you find people who have been working together for a long time. In my case, I just clicked right in, and I felt at home.”
Nkuna makes his debut on Friday, January 24, as the streetwise “shark” Khalema who has a mysterious history and questionable loyalties.
He is Dr. Ximba’s cousin and Sakhile’s uncle, though his connections to the family come with complicated undercurrents. Khalema spent several years in the army but was discharged under mysterious circumstances.
“I am beyond excited to join the cast of ‘Muvhango’ as Khalema, a bold, fearless, and unapologetic character who lives entirely for himself. Khalema is unpredictable and shocking and commands attention with every move.
The role will give Nkuna a chance to act in Swati, a language rarely given a chance on South African television, a meaningful moment for him.
“Khalema challenges me as an actor in the most exhilarating way. He’s ridiculous, insane, and completely un-understandable, yet he makes bold choices that demand confidence and a deep understanding of his complexity.
“This role allows me to stretch my acting muscles and reminds me why I joined this industry – to play, to take risks, and to tell unforgettable stories.”
The long-running SABC 2 soapie "Muvhango" last year underwent a revamp after plummeting numbers almost saw it being cancelled.
“What you're going to be seeing this season is probably the most dramatic change and growth you’ve seen because our viewers demanded that we go fancier, younger, fashionista, bold,” said “Muvhango” founder Duma ka Ndlovu after the show’s media launch.