By Philani Mzila
The exodus of actors in the daily Mzansi Magic drama series, Isibaya, seems to be continuing unabated.
This comes after it emerged that another prominent actor in the show, Pallance Dladla, who plays the role of Jabulani Zungu, has dumped the show.
According to insiders, the actor has even stopped reporting for duty.
“Pallance stopped reporting for duty before the national lockdown. His role was scrapped and they are busy planning his exit. From last month, Pallance was not reporting for duty, which prompted the producers of the show to come with new ideas to
cover his part,” the source said.
Isibaya publicist Karabo Maroga denied Dladla was leaving.
“Pallance requested a break to go to the US for March and April to do an acting course and explore international contacts for his acting career. He did a similar thing in 2019. This was arranged through his agent MLA,” said Maroga.
“There is nothing unusual around this. Actors do many things at the same time. You might recall Pallance also shot the Netflix series Shadow while doing Isibaya.
We are supportive of actors building their careers and if they get a great opportunity, then we discuss with them and their agent.
“Pallance was due to return to South Africa and shoot Isibaya in early May. He then had his plans affected while in the US due to Covid-19 as we all have.”
According to insiders, the producers had briefed other cast members about Dladla’s exit from the show.
“He is leaving the show. We don’t know whether the producers of the show will change their minds after the lockdown about letting Pallance go,” the source said.
Maroga also explained the situation of Siyabonga Thwala, who plays the role of Mpiyakhe Zungu.
Sunday World reported last month that Thwala was no longer shooting with Isibaya.
“Mr Thwala lives in KZN …We stopped all cast flying from KZN to JHB as soon as the travel warnings were put in place. This affected a few scenes with Mr Thwala, which we worked around.”
Dladla could not be reached for comment.
