Fans React as Skeem Saam Casts Former The River Actor Lunga Mofokeng

South African television fans have taken to social media to express mixed reactions following the announcement that former The River actor Lunga Mofokeng has joined the cast of SABC 1’s long-running soap opera, Skeem Saam.

While landing a role on one of the country’s most-watched soapies would typically be met with excitement, the news has instead sparked debate among viewers, with opinions sharply divided.

After Lunga officially announced his new acting gig, social media platforms were flooded with comments. Some fans congratulated the actor on securing the role, while others openly expressed their disappointment, questioning the show’s creative direction.

According to the show’s management, Lunga Mofokeng is set to make his first on-screen appearance on Skeem Saam on Monday, 9 February 2026.

Speaking to the media, Skeem Saam Publicity Manager Yvonne Siphuka said the actor’s arrival is expected to add new energy and depth to the storyline.

“Lunga Mofokeng joins the cast as Qhomane, also known as Mr Q, making his first on-screen appearance on Monday, 9 February at 19:30 on SABC 1. While he arrives polished and inspiring, his presence raises questions that will unfold as the 2026 storyline progresses,” she said.

She added that his character will quietly influence existing dynamics within the show.

“His arrival brings subtle shifts to familiar dynamics, prompting quiet adjustments within the school and beyond. As new interactions take shape, it becomes clear that his presence will not go unnoticed.”

CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT 🎥

Former #TheRiver actor Lunga Mofokeng joins #Skeemsaam on SABC 1. He’ll play (Qhomane) a young & charming teacher, debuting Mon, 9 Feb at 19:30.. pic.twitter.com/BxcXQ7ydg5

— Entertainment (@TvblogbyMLU) February 4, 2026

Despite the anticipation from the production team, many viewers were less enthusiastic about the casting choice. Some fans argued that Skeem Saam is losing its cultural identity by casting actors associated with other language-driven productions.

One X user, @TheGeopol, commented:

“SABC is now collapsing Skeem Saam with Zulu actors. That was the only show left with civility. Now it’s degenerating into a taxi-violence type of production.”

Others suggested that the soapie may be shifting its strategy to grow its audience and become more commercially competitive, similar to long-running shows like Generations.

However, not all feedback was negative. Some viewers welcomed the new addition, expressing curiosity about how the character would fit into the storyline.

@dima_onzima wrote:

“This is a good addition. I can’t wait to see Carol’s reaction.”

Meanwhile, @ThuliSaul_ shared a more conflicted view:

“Happy for him, but I need Skeem Saam to just stop. They are doing fine with Sepedi. We are learning a lot from it.”

Lunga Mofokeng, who will portray Qhomane, described the character as layered and intriguing.

“Qhomane is a fascinating character to step into. On the surface, he’s confident and composed, but there’s a lot happening beneath that. I’ve enjoyed exploring those layers and bringing someone like Mr Q into the world of Turf,” he said.

Skeem Saam is one of South Africa’s most popular soap operas. Created by Winnie Serite, the show has been broadcast on SABC 1 since its debut in 2011.

Set between Johannesburg and Turfloop, the youth-centred drama rose to prominence by offering authentic storytelling rooted in education and local culture. The series, an SABC Education production, has run for over a decade and remains a staple in South African households.

As Lunga Mofokeng prepares to make his debut, it remains to be seen whether his character will win over sceptical viewers or further fuel debate around the show’s evolving identity.