After a one-year break, which was announced after actor Abdul Khoza decided to step away from acting, he unexpectedly returns to the screen. The star of the series 'Shaka iLembe' joins the SABC1 project 'Uzalo', where he plays Ma-Ten-Ten, the leader of the formidable biker gang 'Amantaliyane', who is set to change the landscape of KwaMashu.
Reasons for Departure and Return
Khoza's return came after he publicly bid farewell to the industry, explaining his decision to leave acting. During that time, he posted a recording of one of his last auditions to demonstrate the real aspects of the profession to aspiring actors. He noted that this was a way to show those looking to build a career in acting that everyone goes through the audition process.
Khoza also expressed gratitude to his supporters for their support over many years, emphasizing that without them, he would not have discovered his talent. Previously, the actor wrote an open letter reflecting on the ups and downs of his career. He admitted that while acting allowed him to inspire viewers, it also negatively affected his mental health, causing feelings of exhaustion, isolation, and brokenness despite professional success.
New Role and Plot Changes
Khoza now reappears in front of the camera as the charismatic yet dangerous Ma-Ten-Ten. According to the show's producers, this character arrives in KwaMashu after Nkunzi's arrest with the intention of seizing the Mkhlongo empire. Although Ma-Ten-Ten appears flawless, stylish, and charming, he is a ruthless criminal whose harsh childhood in an orphanage shaped the belief that survival is paramount.
He is joined by actress Londeka Sishi, who plays his adopted sister Lungstu. She is characterized as an intelligent and calculating figure who manages the biker gang's operations, using intellect and an ability to understand people to always stay one step ahead. The 'Amantaliyane' gang also features Mbuso Zulu as Cash Mani, one of the most loyal and imposing members. Lungani Mabaso reprises his role as Fefeni, who returns with unexpected ties to the biker group after being injured during the robbery that led to Nkunzi's incarceration, setting the stage for unresolved business.
Series Prospects
The arrival of the gang marks a new chapter for the long-running soap opera, promising power struggles, shifting alliances, and revenge. Gugu Zuma-Ncube, co-founder of Stained Glass Productions, commented on the new additions, stating that the characters were created to completely alter the familiar world of viewers. He noted: 'Every great story needs characters who completely disrupt our known world. Ma-Ten-Ten and Lungstu are multi-layered, fascinating, and unpredictable. They don't just appear to cause chaos. They challenge every character around them and force them to make impossible choices. We are thrilled that viewers will experience this new era of Uzalo.'
