After 28 years, South Africa’s pioneering Tshivenda-language soapie Muvhango draws to a close—leaving its actors, including Inno Manchidi (Rendani), confronting life after the cameras roll. What does its legacy mean for culture, careers, and the future of vernacular storytelling?
It’s the end of an era—and the emotions are real
For nearly three decades, Muvhango wasn’t just a TV show—it was a cultural home. Debuting on SABC 2 on 7 April 1997, the soapie's launch marked a milestone: the very first prime-time drama in Tshivenda, a language that had long been sidelined in mainstream media. Through its portrayal of Venda traditions, family drama, and modern conflicts, Muvhango created a space where marginalised voices took centre stage.(News24, SowetanLIVE)
However, on 28 May 2025, SABC officially confirmed the show would end after 28 years, with its final episode set to air on 8 August 2025.(SowetanLIVE, News24) The decision, stemming from unrenewed contracts and an evolving broadcast landscape, leaves a palpable void in the nation's evening schedule.
"It really sucks." - Inno Manchidi on saying goodbye
In a heartfelt interview with Daily Sun, Inno Manchidi—who grew up with Muvhango and joined the cast as Rendani while still in high school—spoke frankly about the impact of the soap's end:
“It’s a really, really sad time for us… if I am putting it frankly, really sucks.”
More than a job, the show had become a ritual—for her, her castmates, and the audience.
Landing the role as a teenager was a dream come true, a childhood fantasy realized early. Inno reflected on how integral Muvhango became to both her identity and daily life.(News24, Wikipedia)
Cultural bravery in every scene
One storyline stands out vividly: Rendani’s topless ritual scene—rooted in Tshivenda tradition—required vulnerability and trust. It pushed Inno beyond her comfort zone, but with rigorous workshopping behind the scenes, she came to understand its importance—not only for storytelling, but for honoring culture.
Beyond the onscreen moments, Inno emphasized the off-screen bonds: “everybody was everybody’s keeper”—from make-up artists to finance staff—all formed a tight-knit family where support was constant.(News24, Wikipedia)
What made Muvhango more than a soap
More than entertainment, Muvhango served as:
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A linguistic champion: It turned Tshivenda, once underrepresented, into a celebrated medium on national television.(News24, SowetanLIVE)
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A career launchpad: Icons like Gabriel Temudzani, Lindiwe Chibi, Dingaan Khumalo (James Motsamai), and Sindi Dlathu (Thandaza Mokoena) were all shaped by the show.(News24, Wikipedia, SowetanLIVE)
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A cultural mirror: For countless families, Muvhango reflected ingredients of their identity—tradition, urban migration, internal tensions—that resonated deeply.(Gauteng, Wikipedia)
Actor Dingaan Khumalo—who played James for 23 years—echoed the collective sentiment of loss and gratitude. “No situation is permanent,” he told Sowetan Live, reflecting on the uncertainty he and his peers endured. For many, the show paid their bills and cemented their careers; now, the departure opens a new, uncertain chapter.(SowetanLIVE)
Who fills the void?
As the credits roll on Muvhango’s last episode on 8 August, SABC has lined up its successor: a new telenovela from Bakwena Productions, aimed at retaining audience momentum.(News24) Meanwhile, News24 has confirmed Giyani: Land of Blood will air repeats in the fading Muvhango slot, giving West Sotho-speaking audiences a voice.(News24)
Yet for many, nothing replaces Muvhango’s legacy—a blend of language, culture, strong narratives, and shared emotion.
Why this farewell matters beyond one soapie
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Representation wins only one fight at a time: Muvhango carved a path for minority language programming. Its absence reveals how fragile such gains can be.
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The show’s end is an emotional event: Even in today’s fragmented TV space, the farewell carries weight because Muvhango was woven into daily life.
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Opportunity for reinvention: For its cast and crew—including Inno—the end isn’t just loss; it opens avenues for new storytelling, growth, and perhaps pan-African platforms.
A message to the loyal Muvhango audience
I know many of you spent your evenings tuned in—not just for drama, but to see yourselves reflected in characters, languages, and stories you've rarely seen on TV. Let’s honor that legacy.
Share your favourite Muvhango moment below—a scene, a character, a family dinner debate, or a ritual that touched you. Tag it with #MuvhangoMemories and keep the conversation alive.
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Sources
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Farewell Muvhango: SABC2 cancels beloved Venda soap after 28 years (News24)(News24)
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Final curtain call for Muvhango after 28 years (SowetanLIVE)(SowetanLIVE)
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'It’s very sad' — Dingaan Khumalo on Muvhango ending after 28 years (SowetanLIVE)(SowetanLIVE)
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Giyani: Land of Blood to take over as Muvhango ends after 28 years (News24: Drum)(News24)
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Muvhango cast says farewell after 28 years (iol.co.za)(IOL)
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