The world of South African television has been abuzz with the news of Vusi Kunene’s departure from the popular e.tv telenovela, ‘House of Zwide.’ Kunene, who has captivated audiences with his portrayal of fashion designer Funani Zwide, has officially wrapped up his shooting for the new season, and viewers are already feeling the impact of his absence.
The news of Kunene’s exit was confirmed by entertainment commentator Jabu McDonald, who stated, “Vusi Kunene is leaving House of Zwide. The award-winning actor has already wrapped up shooting for the new season and will be off screen mid-July.” This announcement has sent shockwaves through the loyal fan base of the show, who have come to love Kunene’s character and his integral role in the unfolding narrative.
According to the TVSA House of Zwide July teasers, Funani Zwide’s departure from the CEO position at the fashion house will be a central storyline in the upcoming episodes. The teasers reveal that Funani will return to the House of Zwide but struggle to find his passion, leading him to walk out on a client and eventually admit to his sangoma that he feels lost and in a bad space. The teasers go on to state that Funani will ultimately decide to follow his heart and make the “startling announcement” that he is leaving the House of Zwide and returning to KwaZulu-Natal.
The news of Kunene’s exit comes at a time when ‘House of Zwide’ is experiencing a surge in popularity. The show has been renewed for a fourth season, with the Broadcasting Research Council of South Africa (BRCSA) reporting that it is the most-watched program on e.tv, boasting over 4 million viewers in May and June.
As fans bid farewell to Vusi Kunene’s Funani Zwide, the question on everyone’s mind is, “Where will the actor land next?” Speculation is rife that Kunene may be returning to the SABC1 soapie ‘Generations: The Legacy’ as the villainous character Jack Mabaso, who is rumored to be making a comeback from the dead according to the show’s August teasers.
The departure of Vusi Kunene from ‘House of Zwide’ marks the end of an era for the show’s loyal viewers. Funani Zwide’s exit will undoubtedly leave a void in the narrative, and fans are eager to see how the show will navigate this significant change. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is certain: Vusi Kunene’s talent and impact on the South African television landscape will not be forgotten.
House of Zwide’ fans react to Vusi Kunene’s exit
@Lungile_nje: “The whole show must wrap it us. It has lost its direction! Worse ke, the child (Keletso) that’s in grade 10 is a now a DJ. And she gets to DJ in clubsyooh kuningi!”
@hlebhebhe: “They must pack up the whole show, I wonder what my next project is.”
@Thakrz1: “Weeeee haibo without Jack Mabaso manje what is gonna happen there. Like the show is boring already. So he will leave before even finding out Faith killed his mom? Kuningi.”
@lulushezi: “Glad I stopped watching long ago. Funani dying will bring the whole show down.”
