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In a raw and emotional revelation that’s stirring the South African entertainment scene, Maumela Mahuwa—beloved for her iconic role as Susan Mukwevho on the long-running SABC2 telenovela Muvhango—has broken her silence on the profound struggles she’s faced since the show’s abrupt cancellation.
As of September 11, 2025, just a month after the final episode aired on August 8, Mahuwa’s candid interview on SABC2’s regional programme Zwa Maramani has gone viral, shedding light on the harsh realities behind the glamour of Mzansi’s soap operas. Her words paint a picture of uncertainty, financial strain, and emotional turmoil, resonating with thousands of fans and fellow actors who are grappling with the industry’s instability.
Muvhango, a cultural staple since its debut in 1997, wrapped up after 28 seasons, leaving a void in Venda-language programming and the hearts of its viewers. Created by Duma Ndlovu, the series explored themes of tradition, family, and modern challenges through the lens of the Mukwevho royal family. Mahuwa joined the cast in 2003, initially in a supporting role that evolved into a central pillar of the storyline.
As Susan, the resilient and often scheming wife of Chief Azwindini (played by Gabriel Temudzani), she delivered performances that earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her character’s arcs—from navigating royal intrigues to personal betrayals—mirrored the complexities of South African life, making Susan a household name.
The decision to end Muvhango came as a shock to the cast and crew, announced earlier this year amid rumors of budget cuts and shifting viewer preferences. For Mahuwa, who had dedicated over two decades to the role, the news hit like a thunderbolt. In her Zwa Maramani interview, she described the day they learned of the cancellation as “a very sad day,” emphasizing the surreal disbelief that gripped the team.
“When we received the news about the show’s end, it felt like a surreal dream until that fateful day,” she shared, her voice heavy with emotion. This marked the beginning of her post-Muvhango struggles, as the abrupt halt not only severed a steady income stream but also disrupted the sense of community and purpose that came with the daily grind of filming.
Financially, the impact has been immediate and severe. Mahuwa, like many actors in the industry, relied on her Muvhango salary as the primary breadwinner for her family. In the interview, she highlighted the broader ramifications: “The decision to end the Muvhango drama series signifies not only the conclusion of a show but also the loss of jobs for many actors, most of whom are the breadwinners in their families.”
With the show gone, Mahuwa has found herself navigating a competitive job market where opportunities for veteran actors, especially those typecast in long-running roles, are scarce. Sources close to her reveal that she’s been auditioning for new projects but faces the common hurdle of being forever associated with Susan, limiting her to similar character types.
Emotionally, the transition has been equally taxing. Mahuwa, who is also a musician and pastor, spoke of the void left by the show’s end. “It’s hard to wake up without that routine, without the family we built on set,” she admitted. Her journey on Muvhango was not without its challenges; in earlier years, she faced public scrutiny over her character’s controversial storylines, including affairs and power struggles.
Yet, these experiences forged her resilience. In a March 2025 podcast appearance on Beyond the Surface, Mahuwa reflected on her career’s ups and downs, hinting at the personal traumas and anxieties that have shaped her. Now, without the anchor of Muvhango, she’s channeling that strength into new ventures, but the adjustment period has been fraught with doubt and isolation.
The actress’s revelations have sparked a wave of support and discussion across social media. Fans on X and TikTok have shared clips from her interview, with many expressing solidarity under hashtags like #SupportMaumela and #MuvhangoLegacy.
One viral post read: “Susan was our queen on screen, but Maumela’s real-life struggles show how tough it is for actors post-show. We need better support systems!” This sentiment echoes broader industry concerns, as Muvhango’s cancellation resulted in job losses for dozens, including crew members from rural Venda areas who relied on the production for economic stability.
Fellow cast members have also voiced similar struggles. Gabriel Temudzani, who played Chief Azwindini, described the end as “heartbreaking,” noting the loss of opportunities for rural talent. Innocentia Manchidi and others joined in farewell tributes, highlighting the emotional toll.
Industry analysts point out that South African telenovelas often face precarious futures due to funding issues and competition from streaming platforms. The South African Actors’ Guild has called for government intervention to protect jobs in the creative sector, using Muvhango’s demise as a case study.
Despite the hardships, Mahuwa remains optimistic and proactive. Her Instagram, @iammaumela, is abuzz with upcoming events, including the ‘Adam and Eve Seminar (Bone of My Bone)’ on October 4, 2025, at El Bethel Ministries in Vaal Reef. She’s also exploring music and pastoral work, drawing from her multifaceted talents.
In recent appearances, like attending Eswatini’s PATBOARD initiative and a seminar with parliamentarians, she continues to inspire. Fans remember her lighter moments too, like the fun “What’s in My Bag” TikTok video from May 2024, showcasing her relatable side.
Mahuwa’s story is a poignant reminder of the human cost behind our favorite shows. As she navigates this new chapter, her courage in speaking out could pave the way for better protections for actors. Whether through new roles or her ongoing advocacy, Maumela Mahuwa—forever Susan to many—proves that true strength lies in rising after the fall. The nation watches, hoping her struggles lead to a brighter spotlight for all in Mzansi’s entertainment world.
