What happened to The Queen’s Vuyiswa? We have the answer for confused viewers

There’s a new Vuyiswa Maake in town and viewers didn't see it coming. 

And they were not shy to share their displeasure with the abrupt change.

The Queen’s Mzansi fans were left confused when Vuyiswa, played by Zandile Msutwana, was suddenly portrayed by a different actor. Some even wondered if she'd been fired.

Read more | 6 actors who have left 'The Queen Mzansi'

It turns out Zandile, who plays the feisty detective Vuyiswa on the hit telenovela, was injured on set and had to be temporarily replaced. Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo has taken on the role while Zandile is on leave.

While viewers have fallen in love with Zandile, the show must go on – even when actors are on leave.

Ferguson Films made an announcement to shed some light on the confusion.

“It is with great sadness and excitement that we make this announcement. Zandile Msutwana, who plays Vuyiswa Maake, sustained an injury while on set. Unfortunately, Msutwana cannot carry out her duties and has been booked off to recover,” the statement reads.

Thembisa, who is no stranger to acting, was named as her replacement and she has big shoes to fill.

“We have no doubt that with Thembisa’s immense talent and skills, along with the support and guidance she has received from Msutwana, the character of Vuyiswa Maake will continue to steal the hearts of the viewers,” the producers says. 

The award-winning presenter is known for her stellar performance on Date My family and also featured in the 2018 SA film Baby Mama and became known for her role on the series Unmarried.

Read more | Everything you need to know about Thembisa Mdoda’s character on 'Isibaya'

The production company went on to wish Zandile a speedy recovery. It's not yet known when she will return to filming.

Due to the inconveniences of Covid-19, production of The Queen Season 5 has to wrap, Ferguson Films says, and that means a replacement for Vuyiswa was inevitable.

Hopefully this clears up some confusion for the fans who had a few funny things to say about the swop.