The Riveris currently in its sixth and final season. During the fifth season of the popular telenovela, it introduced the Hlophe family, and arguably one of the beloved characters to have emerged was Vuyo Biyela as Mlilo Hlophe. He was the kasi eldest sibling of the three who won over the hearts of many as the love interest to the original character Beauty.
Hence the surprising events of this past week as the rivalry between the Hlophes and Lindiwe escalated to deadly new heights. Unfortunately, the casualty was Mlilo, who fans cannot get over that they will not see again in the world of the story.
“Goodnight Mlilo Hlophe” - Vuyo Biyela
Wednesday, 3 May 2025 marked the official exit storyline of Mlilo Hlophe from The River. It all started when Thumbeza put into action the second assassination attack on Lindiwe. This time using his own children to do the deed.
However, as MaDlabantu explained, “They don’t call her die-hard for nothing.” Lindiwe delivered one of her most recent iconic seasons as she showered a hail of bullets against Mlilo resulting in his death.
Someone said "we all need Jesus for loving Madlabantu so much" and I agree because is it normal to get goosebumps because Lindiwe is killing a person?🤣😂❤️#TheRiver1Magic
But it was on Thursday, 4 May 2023, when it was confirmed that Biyela was officially leaving the telenovela as his “dead body” was dragged in front of the Thumbezas.
As such, Vuyo took to Instagram to pen a lengthy post in which he bid farewell to his breakout role which has since become an in-demand leading man. As such, he wrote in his caption:
“On the 1st of April 2022 my journey on The River began. Mlilo Hlophe was born and a year later he has left the scene. The love he’s received has been nothing short of amazing. The memories we shared eish! (Indescribable)”
Biyela then affirms that his exit was amicable as he not only thanked production company Tshedza Pictures, but the cast and crew by writing in length:
“I’m typing this long ass essay with teary eyes not because I’m sad but because I’m grateful for the opportunity that Tshedza Pictures gave me to showcase my abilities and live this character.
It is with great sadness that I have to bid farewell to uMlilo Hlophe who has become a part of my life. Thank you to the crew, wardrobe and make up team, my amazing drivers and most importantly to Mashoba “Paddy” Mazibuko for spotting me in Durban at the auditions and believing in my talent.
My directors ngiyabonga for guiding me and helping me grow in every possible way your efforts have never went unnoticed. I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me given that The River was my first ever big project.”
