PICTURE: SUPPLIED/ THEMBINKOSI MTHEMBU
After months of captivating viewers as Sifiso Kubheka on Mzansi Wethu’s Homecoming, SAFTA-winning actor Thembinkosi Mthembu has officially bid farewell to the popular telenovela.
Also see: Six Nyamane shares more about her character on ‘Homecoming’
Thembinkosi filmed his final scenes after a successful first season, bringing to a close the journey of one of the show’s most beloved characters. Throughout the season, he portrayed Sifiso as a man torn between family expectations, civic duty and his calling as a traditional healer.
A shocking end
Viewers were left stunned when Sifiso met a tragic end at the hands of Shobane, played by Mpilo Mbatha.
Consumed by anger and determined to confront the man he believed had ruined his marriage, Sifiso stormed into Khathazile’s home and attacked Shobane. As the altercation intensified, the two grappled and Sifiso was fatally stabbed.
His death marks a heartbreaking turning point in the story, leaving lasting consequences for those closest to him and sending shockwaves throughout the community.
Praise from the production team
Series producer Lulu Hela praised Thembinkosi’s contribution to the show, describing working with him as a privilege.
“Working with Thembinkosi on the first season of Homecoming was a true privilege. His professionalism and dedication to his craft, plus the depth he brought to the role of Sifiso, elevated every scene he was a part of,” she said.
Lulu added that Thembinkosi is one of the finest talents of his generation and expressed hope that they would collaborate again in the future.
Also see: Thembinkosi Mthembu to star in ‘Homecoming’
A career filled with memorable roles
Over the years, Thembinkosi has established himself as one of South Africa’s most celebrated television stars.
Audiences have watched him shine as King Dingiswayo in the multi-award-winning epic Shaka iLembe, while his portrayal of Bonga in Adulting sparked conversation among viewers. He has also impressed as Bandile in Outlaws and won over fans with his charming jailbird character in The River.
Thembinkosi Mthembu reflects on Homecoming journey
Speaking about his exit, Thembinkosi expressed gratitude to viewers and everyone involved in the production.
“This has been one incredible journey that I am grateful for. Thank you to the viewers for embracing the character and investing in his story, and to the cast, crew, writers and producers for making this experience so memorable.
“While Sifiso’s chapter comes to an end, I leave with nothing but gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. Thank you for the love and support, and I look forward to sharing many more stories with you in the future,” he added.
The story continues
Although Thembinkosi’s Homecoming journey has come to an end, fans can still look forward to seeing the acclaimed actor in other local productions.
Meanwhile, the drama continues on Homecoming as season two premieres on Monday, 22 June 2026, with fresh twists and turns unfolding weekdays at 18:30 on Mzansi Wethu.
Also see: Celebrities praise Thembinkosi Mthembu’s portrayal of Godongwana
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