South Africa’s longest-running soapie, “Generations: The Legacy”, is set to shake things up for its 34th season with fresh talent joining the cast.
The new season packs in the drama, action and thrilling escapades as Sicelo Mabaso, Vuyolwethu Matiwane and Athie Cwele join with captivating storylines that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Cwele joined the long-standing telenovela on January 2 and has already become a fan favourite.
Matiwane will arrive on the small screen on Tuesday, March 18, followed by Mabaso on Wednesday, March 19.
Cwele plays Kamogelo Moroka, the son of the beloved Kea. A budding entrepreneur studying digital marketing and software engineering, he is determined to start his own business after graduation.
Cwele is also currently on season two of Mzansi Magic’s “Icala”.
He said: “There are no words that suffice to express how it feels being on a show as big as ‘Generations’ but, above and beyond anything, it is a blessing to me and I am grateful for the opportunity.”
Joining Cwele is Mabaso, who has been cast as Samkelo.
Samkelo is a charismatic hustler brimming with charm. He is street savvy, easy to love and can code-switch depending on who he is with.
“I am extremely grateful to have gotten the role after such a gruelling and nail-biting audition process. A life-changing experience and, to many, it will start making sense … A gifted kid compelled by a passion for the arts,” shared Sicelo.
Matiwane will be stepping into the spotlight as Lulama, a young woman from East London striving to escape poverty in her pursuit of success in Johannesburg.
With a mother who is deeply religious, Lulama's journey has not been without challenges, especially as she navigates university life.
Expressing her gratitude for being part of the iconic South African soapie, she shared: “I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude … I promise to give it my all and make the most of this amazing role. Thank you again, a dream come true!”
As the new stars shine, the soapie will be bidding farewell to beloved characters Kabisi Moroka and Anathi Mpofu, portrayed by Mpho J Molepo and Nicholas “Nick Soul” Nkuna, respectively.
Their exit, planned for the end of March, marks the conclusion of an era for these much-loved actors.
“They have both done a stellar job portraying these characters and they make their exit towards the end of March 2025. We wish them well in their future endeavours,” read a statement from SABC1.
Meanwhile, Nkuna will be moving to the popular SABC2 revamped soapie, “Muvhango”, from Friday, January 24, as the streetwise “shark” Khalema Semenya, who has a mysterious history and questionable loyalties.
In an interview with “IOL Entertainment”, Nkuna said: “I am beyond excited to join the cast of ‘Muvhango’ as Khalema, a bold, fearless and unapologetic character who lives entirely for himself. Khalema is unpredictable and shocking and commands attention with every move.
“This role allows me to stretch my acting muscles and reminds me why I joined this industry - to play, to take risks, and to tell unforgettable stories,” said Nkuna.
∎ “Generations: The Legacy” airs on SABC1 at 8pm, weekdays.