It seems that the popular Tshivenda soapie, Muvhango, is struggling to maintain its audience following a significant cast change and new season debut.
The show, which traditionally captured the attention of many, saw a notable drop in viewership with its August premiere.
Viewership Numbers Drop
According to TVSA, Muvhango attracted 1.325 million viewers in July.
However, August’s figures show a decline, with the BRCSA reporting a viewership of 1.084 million.
The shift in audience numbers has sparked conversations on social media, where fans have expressed a preference for the older episodes.
Fan Reactions
On X, viewers shared their discontent, reminiscing about the show’s earlier seasons.
@Papi_Mphuthi commented, “I used to look forward to 9pm just to watch the old episodes and even recorded them. That’s how great it was back then.”
Similarly, @DeeJosta noted, “The old Muvhango episodes really boosted those numbers.”
New Cast and Storyline
The revamped season premiered on August 5th, featuring actress Leleti Khumalo as Dr. Nonhlanhla Ximba and actor Lloyd Nedohe as Avhatakali Ramabulana.
Tyson Mathonsi also joined the cast as Sakhile Ximba.
Khumalo’s character, a medical doctor turned CEO of Siyabusa Construction, aims to transform MMC and promote women’s empowerment.
The show’s press release promises that Dr. Ximba’s role as a construction mogul will bring new levels of intrigue and storytelling to Muvhango.
Show’s Fresh Look
Sunday Tribune highlighted that the show returned with a fresh new logo, opening sequence, and additional characters.
Jacqui Hlongwane, acting head of Channel at SABC2, expressed enthusiasm for Muvhango’s new direction, stating that SABC2 is excited about the show’s transformation and the new energy it brings.
Actress Liteboho Molise has also rejoined the cast as Teboho Mukwevho after leaving the show in 2021.
Newcomers Lebo Tisane and Wiseman Zitha are now part of the revamped ensemble.
Mixed Reactions to the Revamp
Despite these changes, reactions have been mixed.
Some fans, like @mpholaurenml, expressed disappointment, saying, “Cut…cut it was never supposed to come back Hai.”
Others, such as @BoostingCable, commented, “Muvhango Rebirth looks exactly the same as Muvhango.”
And @KeitumetsePhet1 observed, “Muvhango is really boring … All the village people are in Joburg and where are the grannies?”
As the show navigates this new chapter, viewers are left wondering what the future holds for Muvhango and if it can regain its former glory.