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Deli Malinga: Staying Put in ‘Umkhokha: The Curse’

Deli Malinga, known for her role as Mamzobe in ‘Umkhokha: The Curse,’ is not leaving the series despite rumors to the contrary. Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela confirmed that Malinga is under contract to remain with the show until the season’s agreement concludes. Fans expressed relief at the news, and Malinga’s impact on the show’s success has been noted. As Malinga explores new opportunities, her star continues to rise.

Is Deli Malinga leaving Umkhokha: The Curse?

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No, Deli Malinga is not leaving the South African telenovela ‘Umkhokha: The Curse.’ Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela confirmed that she is staying on the show, dispelling rumors that she was resigning due to dissatisfaction with her treatment on set. Malinga is under a contractual obligation to remain with the show until the season’s agreement concludes. The actress recently disclosed that she has other characters in the works, but she could not reveal them yet.

No Goodbye for Deli Malinga

The entertainment industry is a breeding ground for speculation and gossip, and a recent event has finally been put to bed: popular actress Deli Malinga, known for her role as Mamzobe in the telenovela ‘Umkhokha: The Curse,’ is not departing the series. This follows a report by the isiZulu publication Isolezwe suggesting that ‘Uzalo’ actress Baby Cele might take over Malinga’s role as Mamzobe.

Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela confirmed that Malinga is, in fact, staying on the telenovela, dispelling the rumors that started when isiZulu publication iLanga News stated on September 28 that Malinga might exit the show. It was believed that Malinga had resigned due to dissatisfaction with her treatment on set. However, these rumors have been debunked.

In reality, Malinga is under contract to remain with the show until the season’s agreement concludes. The South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) winning actress recently spoke to Sunday World, disclosing that she has other characters in the works but could not reveal them just yet. “I am shooting a few scenes in a fun drama, but they are nothing like MaMzobe,” she said.

Fans React to Rumors

Rumors of Malinga’s departure from ‘Umkhokha: The Curse’ ignited intense reactions from the show’s fans. Many expressed relief upon discovering that Malinga would stay in her role as Mamzobe. On social media, fans shared their opinions on the situation. One user, @Miz_Ruraltarain, tweeted: “We can’t accept any other Mamzobe if not her… I was bored with that announcement of Uzalo Gabisile replacing her.” Another fan, @Zie81640780, wrote: “Thank goodness! Nothing against Baby Cele kodwa I can’t imagine her as Zobisto. Mam’Deli is killing that part.”

Some viewers even made comparisons to other shows that suffered due to recasting key actors. User @Iebzzzza remarked: “Re-casts flop because people are used to the original performer. Good for Umkhokha they won’t make the mistake of Imbewu. That show died a painful death after the many recasts of principal casts. To hell with ‘characters are not dependent on actors’ thing.”

Deli Malinga’s Impact on the Show

It appears that the fans’ strong connection to Malinga’s portrayal of Mamzobe is a critical component of the show’s success. Her performance has struck a chord with viewers who cannot envision anyone else playing the role. This sentiment was repeated by @kenonam1, who tweeted: “Mam Deli is stuck with us shem whether we are pro or against goqa nation she must just sit down and give us iZobelicious.”

In a field where casting changes can significantly affect a show’s fortune, Deli Malinga’s ongoing participation in ‘Umkhokha: The Curse’ is vital to its audience. Her ability to engage viewers with her depiction of Mamzobe has not gone unnoticed, and the confirmation of her staying on the show has been met with great enthusiasm.

A Bright Future for Deli Malinga

As the telenovela progresses, fans can take comfort in knowing that their beloved character, Mamzobe, will continue to be portrayed by the gifted Deli Malinga. With her commitment to fulfilling her contractual obligations and her devotion to her artistry and supporters, Malinga’s prospects in the entertainment world appear promising. As she delves into new roles and opportunities, there is no question that her star will only continue to ascend.

How did the rumors start about Deli Malinga leaving Umkhokha: The Curse?

The rumors about Deli Malinga leaving ‘Umkhokha: The Curse’ began when isiZulu publication iLanga News stated on September 28 that she might exit the show. It was believed that Malinga had resigned due to dissatisfaction with her treatment on set.

Who confirmed that Deli Malinga is staying on Umkhokha: The Curse?

Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela confirmed that Deli Malinga is staying on the South African telenovela ‘Umkhokha: The Curse.’

What impact has Deli Malinga had on the success of Umkhokha: The Curse?

Deli Malinga’s performance as Mamzobe has struck a chord with viewers who cannot envision anyone else playing the role. Her ongoing participation in ‘Umkhokha: The Curse’ is vital to its audience, and her ability to engage viewers with her depiction of Mamzobe has not gone unnoticed.

What did Deli Malinga say about her future plans?

Deli Malinga recently disclosed that she has other characters in the works, but she could not reveal them yet. “I am shooting a few scenes in a fun drama, but they are nothing like MaMzobe,” she said.

How have fans reacted to the news that Deli Malinga is staying on Umkhokha: The Curse?

Fans have expressed relief at the news, and many shared their opinions on social media. They made it clear that they cannot accept any other actress playing Mamzobe and that Deli Malinga’s portrayal of the character is vital to the show’s success.

Why do fans believe that recasting key actors can affect a show’s fortune?

Fans believe that re-casts flop because people are used to the original performer, and it’s challenging to accept someone else in the same role. This sentiment was repeated by many viewers who expressed their relief that Deli Malinga is staying on ‘Umkhokha: The Curse.’

What award has Deli Malinga won?

Deli Malinga is a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) winning actress.

What does the future hold for Deli Malinga in the entertainment industry?

As Deli Malinga delves into new roles and opportunities, there is no question that her star will only continue to ascend. Her commitment to fulfilling her contractual obligations and her devotion to her artistry and supporters promise a bright future in the entertainment world.

Lerato Mokena

Lerato Mokena is a Cape Town-based journalist who covers the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene with a focus on emerging voices from Khayelitsha to the Bo-Kaap. Born and raised at the foot of Table Mountain, she brings an insider’s eye to how creativity shapes—and is shaped by—South Africa’s complex social landscape. When she’s not chasing stories, Lerato can be found surfing Muizenberg’s gentle waves or debating politics over rooibos in her grandmother’s Gugulethu kitchen.

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