After a three-year break, award-winning actor Bongile Mantsai has made his much-anticipated comeback to the hit e.tv soapie Scandal!, reprising his iconic role as Mthunzi Mayiza. The return of one of the show’s most notorious villains has sparked excitement among fans, who have long demanded his reappearance.
A Surprising Comeback
Speaking at a media screening event hosted by Scandal! executives at Sasani Studios in Balfour Park, Johannesburg, Bongile Mantsai opened up about his mixed emotions regarding his return.
“I’ve got mixed feelings. I’m excited—I thought Mthunzi was no more in the storyline,” he admitted.
Mantsai revealed that stepping back into Mthunzi’s shoes was both a challenge and an opportunity to reconnect with a character that had a lasting impact on the audience.
“Coming back is about reconnecting with the old Mthunzi and what viewers liked about him. You must bear in mind, I’ve played many characters similar to this villain. I had to go back to my toolbox to see what happened before and how to reconnect.”
The return of Mthunzi Mayiza has been met with excitement, as he was previously one of the most feared and manipulative villains on the show. His complex and chilling character captivated audiences, making him an unforgettable antagonist.
Bongile Mantsai: “I’m Nothing Like Mthunzi”
Despite the ruthlessness and cunning nature of his Scandal! character, Mantsai is quick to separate himself from Mthunzi in real life.
“I grew up in a church family—my father was a bishop in Stellenbosch. I feel I’m different from this evil guy. I’m a soft man and a loner,” he shared.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to the show and reconnect with both the cast and viewers.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity of rejoining Scandal!”
Fans may know him as the devious Mthunzi, but those close to him recognize him as a gentle and private individual.
New Faces Set to Shake Up Scandal! Storylines
The media screening was not only about Mantsai’s return but also an introduction to several new cast members who are set to make waves in upcoming episodes.
Among the fresh faces joining Scandal! are:
- Botlhale Baitsiwe (Nia Brown) as Tshidi
- Wright Ngubeni as Bostotso
- Danny de Bruyne as De Wet
- Owen Sejake as Sammy Day
- Khutjo Green as Kedibone
- Bongani Gumede as Ephraim
These additions promise exciting storylines, fresh conflicts, and new dynamics that will keep viewers glued to their screens.
Why Mthunzi Mayiza Had to Return
The decision to bring Mthunzi back was driven by overwhelming audience demand, according to Scandal! head writer and creative producer Grace Mahlaba.
“We had to bring Mthunzi back because during that time, we scored a high volume of viewership. His absence started a huge dialogue about why we let him go, so he is back, and we’re happy to have him.”
Mthunzi Mayiza’s calculated schemes and fearless approach made him a standout villain in the show’s history. His return suggests unfinished business, and fans can expect plenty of twists, drama, and shocking revelations.
What’s Next for Mthunzi?
While details of his storyline remain under wraps, Scandal! fans are eager to see how Mthunzi will re-enter the fold. Will he seek revenge? Has he changed? Or is he back to cause more chaos than ever before?
One thing is certain—Bongile Mantsai’s return as Mthunzi Mayiza is set to shake up Scandal! in a major way. Fans better buckle up because things are about to get intense!
