By Doreen Mokgolo
Warning: This article contains spoilers for May’s episodes of Muvhango.
After 23 captivating years on the beloved venda soapie, Muvhango, Gabriel Temudzani, renowned as Chief Vhafuwi Azwindini, has made the heartbreaking decision to bid farewell to the show.
His departure is fueled by a deep desire to prioritise spending time with his three cherished children and his flourishing business ventures.
In an exclusive interview with Scrolla.Africa, Gabriel expressed the sad reality of missing out on significant milestones in his children’s lives—a sacrifice required by his commitment to the show.
With two teenagers aged 17 and 16, and the youngest at eight, this crucial stage demands his hands-on guidance to shape their decisions and secure their future.
While acknowledging Muvhango as his second home, the versatile actor admitted that now is the time to mend and nurture the relationships with his children, making up for the time lost.
The Thate chief will always hold a special place in his heart, but his focus now shifts towards his beloved family.
Chief Azwindini’s departure from Muvhango is marked by a fiery and climactic scene, where his treacherous cousin and relentless foe, Tenda (portrayed by Nathaniel Ramabulana), mercilessly guns him down and sets him ablaze as a chilling act of revenge for his wrongful imprisonment.
With an eye toward the future, Gabriel Temudzani will dedicate himself to expanding his thriving travel business. As he reflects on his accomplished tenure on the show, he recognises that the time is ripe for his exit, leaving the door ajar for a potential reunion in the years to come.
Gabriel playfully hints, “Who knows what the future holds? Perhaps one day I may receive the call to return. History has shown that some actors and actresses have left the show, only to reemerge after a few years.”
Joining the soap opera at the tender age of 23, Gabriel passionately affirms that his remarkable journey has deepened his appreciation for Venda culture, language, respect for others, and the vital essence of social unity.
In his parting words, he urges every African child to remember the validity of their dreams, regardless of their cultural or familial background.
Pictured above: Gabriel Tebudzani
Picture sources: Supplied
