With productions for season 3 almost commencing, The Wife is reportedly making some major changes to its cast. Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela revealed that three more characters are leaving and they all play lead.
The Showmax series is reportedly letting go of three characters who all played lead characters. Phil took to Twitter to announce that Mondli Makhoba who plays Nkosana Zulu AKA Bhuti Omdala, his wife Zandile Zulu played by Khanyi Mbau and Mandisa played by Zikhona Sodlaka, Nqoba Zulu's baby mama, are all leaving and will not be part of season 3.
After playing “Bhuti-omdala” Nkosana Zulu in the hit Showmax telenovela for 2 seasons, the actor will not be returning to the show for the upcoming third season. #KgopoloReportspic.twitter.com/3eDZdL4jjt
This news shook viewers and many said the whole thing should just be canceled altogether.
However, Phil reckons that this is caused by The Wife readers complaining that the series is not sticking to the book. So in season 3, which is book 3 of the book series, the focus is on Naledi, Qhawe Zulu's, played by Kwenzo, love interest.
But many argue that although they will not be the centre of the book, Zandile and Nkosana's presence is still pretty much felt as they make certain appearances throughout the various books.
Previously Phil revealed that Mbalenhle Mavimbela will be leaving but her character Mahlomu will not be leaving so that means she will be recast. Reasons for her exit are kept on the down-low for now, but Phil reckoned that it is for personal reasons
"The Wife without Mbali will be a tad strange because she really dazzled in this role. The move could also be temporary, should they get more seasons. If they don’t recast in her absence, I would want to see her return," said Phil.
On why she left, he said, "Can’t say. Not my place. Let’s just say, shooting was not gonna be ideal for her right now."
The Wife characters dominated the DStv Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards (DMVCA) nominations but two of them won. Abdul Khoza won Favourite Male Actor and Kwenzo Ngcobo won Favourite Rising Star.
Reacting to his win, Kwenzo said, "I was created to create. Thank you so much to @dstvza @mzansimagic for the award. To my supporters and viewers, This wouldn’t have been possible without your votes and support, Ngiyabonga Kakhulu."
Abdul reacted to his nomination, "I am very thankful for this humbling honor of being nominated for the 1st time in my career by @dstv_mvca_official for BEST ACTOR. I honestly am so grateful for this nomination alone as it means my work is being recognized & that l have won a few hearts within my industry & that for me is my BEST AWARD."
"Thank you so much Mama Bear @dudubusanidube for your amazing work that gave birth to these amazing characters we play on screen. Your talent is extraordinary & out of this world, we love you."
There was outrage when it was speculated that Abdul would also leave and he played Nqoba Zulu. But he backtracked on his decision and said, "Ngithi asibonge isupport yenu (let me just thank you guys for your support) on this S2 of #TheWifeShowmax we are honored to be part of this amazing journey with you. AS FOR ME DYING, HEEE HEEE!! UNGAFA, oMajola nezibamu zabo zezi nyoni. Basazongithola Kahle mina, nguCHAIRMAN (The Majola's and their guns are still going to catch me, I'm the chairman) MAYIBAMBELA..oNever Die By Mistake," he wrote.
