SABC 2 has two flagship soapies that have been part of the channel’s programming for over two decades. One of them happens to be the longest-running TshiVenda programme in the country Muvhango. The Word of Mouth-produced soapie first premiered in 1997.
One of the longest-running characters from the soapie is none other than Gabriel Temudzani who has been with the soapie since 2000 as Azwindini Mukwevho. Introduced as the eldest son of the late chief, for over two decades the county has seen the Chief of Thathe claim, fall from grace and reclaim his chieftaincy.
While his character has been a signpost of the soapie. Similar to his fiction and real-life love story with vho-Susan actress Maumela Mahuwa. It seems that viewers will have to bid their final farewell to the character and the actor as SABC 2 has confirmed his exit.
Azwindini’s Gabriel Temudzani leaving Muvhango after 23 years
SABC 2 released the official statement confirming the exit of the Great Chief of Thathe Azwindini Mukwevho, played by Gabriel Temudzani, after 23 years of playing the beloved character. This comes after the story was broken by entertainment commentator Phil Mphela.
Following the news of Azwindini’s imminent exit, it seems that there were some viewers that believe that this might mark the end of the soapie’s run. However, it seems that the soapie is confident that they will continue to uphold their 2 million viewers per episode average.
However, it does seem that the soapie is facing some drama. This is as it was alleged that the cast of the soapie had walked out from shooting following allegations of the cast not being paid on time. As reported by the Sunday World:
It has become a never-ending financial roller-coaster behind the scenes of the iconic Tshivenda drama series.
This time the actors are allegedly up in arms after they were told that they will not receive their salaries later in the year.
A source close to production told Sunday World that the producers were left gobsmacked after gatvol actors and crew walked out of a meeting in April.
The meeting, which was held at the show’s SABC studios, intended to inform the actors and crew that they will have to tighten their belts because they will not be paid in October, as the soapie negotiates the renewal of a contract with the public broadcaster.
