From queen to question mark: Khabonina Qubeka's discontent with 'Shaka iLembe's' finale

Actress Khabonina Qubeka has spoken out about the way her character’s storyline ended on season two of “Shaka iLembe”. 

Qubeka, who played Queen Ntombazi, shared her disappointment in a now-deleted post on X, revealing that what viewers saw on screen was not the ending she and the production crew had originally shot.

In her post, she said her heart was “shattered” when she saw the final episode. She explained that certain scenes were removed and moments were edited differently from how they were filmed.

“This was not the end we shot. I guess they decided to delete a few scenes and edit some moments. I was looking forward to your reaction to her ending. I had dedicated that performance to u guys😭💔🙏🏾,” Qubeka said.

Her response came after a fan commented that they had expected Queen Ntombazi to use witchcraft to escape death, expressing disappointment that she was killed so easily.

Qubeka replied by clarifying that she had given her all to the ending, but much of it never made it to the screen.

The post has since been deleted, with the actress admitting she had upset fans and deciding to move on from the topic.

In the show, the Ndwandwe kingdom was defeated by the Zulu forces, and Ntombazi was killed.

Queen Ntombazi’s death marks the end of Qubeka’s journey in the hit series.  

For many viewers, it was a dramatic moment that closed off one of the most intriguing and feared characters on the show.

Despite the controversy over the edited scenes, Qubeka’s portrayal of Ntombazi continues to be widely praised.

She brought intensity and depth to the role, blending calm authority with an underlying fire that made her character both feared and fascinating. 

Her performance often left viewers conflicted, with some admiring her talent while disliking her evil character.

Responding to fans’ mixed reactions in the past, Qubeka had described it as one of the biggest compliments to her craft.

She took to X and shared her gratitude with fans.

 “Thank you, my lovers, for FEELING!!! I love you,” she wrote.

Each week after new episodes aired, her character sparked conversations online, with many viewers acknowledging that even though they wanted Ntombazi gone, Qubeka’s acting was one for the books.

The 44-year-old actress and entrepreneur leaves the show having made a lasting impact. 

Even though she may not have been satisfied with how her character’s final scenes were edited, fans continue to celebrate the power of her performance and the mark she left on "Shaka iLembe".