Wiseman Mncube is overwhelmed by the outpouring love and support from The Wife fans, especially after it was announced that he would be playing the new Mqhele Zulu.
The Wife is in production for season 3 and fans will not see Bonko Khoza in action as Mqhele. Introduced to us as the hard-headed and abusive Mqhele, Bonko Khoza rose to fame specifically because of that role.
Now he has gone on to explore greener pastures, but he was not prepared to leave Mqhele without the perfect fit.
Who better than Wiseman Mncube who has played all his characters with ease. Thanking his fans and The Wife fans for supporting the decision to have him play Mqhele, Wiseman penned an appreciation letter to them.
Also, we can't help but wonder if the picture he shared was a 'first look' into the character.
This translates to: “I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the people who have welcomed me after the announcement that I will be joining The Wife, where I will be taking over from Bonko Khoza where he left off, who played the role Mqhele. Thank you very much for the love and support that I have received...I'll do my best o entertain you guys, One love.”
In a statement shared by the production house, Wiseman said he is a fan of both the book and the series, “What actor wouldn’t want to be part of The Wife? Mqhele is a very interesting role and I’m in my element: there’s a lot to chew on and play off, from the love story to the anger to the care. uBonko carried the role with so much respect and power. I’m not here to replace Bonko but to start my own journey as Mqhele and take things from where he left off and run with it in my own way.”
Bonko Khoza spoke proudly of his role on the series and said he has taken the character as far as he could
“Having had the privilege to play Mqhele Zulu for two seasons, I realize I’ve taken the character as far as I can,” said Bonko.
He then said he was part of the team tasked to find his replacement, and that he would be part of the 5AM gang who wakes up to watch the show minutes after it premiers.
“I’m part of finding the perfect replacement and will be watching from the sidelines to support and offer advice where needed. I know that the actor who takes over will build from where I left off, so I’m looking forward to joining the 5 am club to see how the incredible love stories between the brothers and their wives play out this season.
"It’s not often that a show this powerful comes into the world, so we should continue to champion and encourage the talented people who will take us forward in S3.”
