Well-known South African actor, Matthews Rantsoma is leaving e.tv’s Scandal! The star played the character of Nhlamulo Maseko since joining the soapie in 2021.

 

e.tv said Mathews was not booted off the show but decided to leave the show to pursue other work.

“Mathews approached us to advise that he would like to pursue other ventures. The production and the channel support his decision and have agreed to release him. He will exit the story at end-July. We wish him all success in his future plans,” e.tv said.

Mathews has captivated viewers.

Previously speaking to the publication, Mathews said his on-screen character has created a false perception about him and he has to reassure people he and his on-screen character are opposites

“It has created an image that says I’m a romantic in a way, and I’m not really romantic. I think the life of the character has taken over my image, in a way, with the perception of what my life is.”

Asked how his long-time girlfriend receives his intimate scenes, Mathews said: “It’s been tricky because I have to remind her it’s just a scene and it never went far. You have to reassure that it’s a professional relationship. The basis of everything is communication and having to speak about it helps.”

With a background in theatre, Mathews said being part of the show contributed to his growth as an actor.

“It’s been interesting. It’s been an amazing journey. The most difficult scenes are always the intimate ones because we have to have a conversation about whether we are OK with me going so far. It has to be a conversation so we don’t overstep in the name of playing a role. My difficulty has been playing intimate scenes throughout my career, they need special attention,” he said.