TVSA can exclusively reveal that Mpumelelo Bhulose, who plays the role of Gxhabashe on Uzalo, has been fired from the show for "abusive behaviour" amongst a string of other offences.
Not only that, it's the second time he's been fired. He was fired last year when Gxhabashe was shot!
A reliable, trusted insider source close to the show has revealed to TVSA that the production was in upheaval during his time on the show and that the show's management had to fire him to "protect themselves and other cast members from his actions".
According to our mole, Mpumelelo created misery on set by abusing and disrespecting fellow actors and the crew and by deliberating creating discord amongst the cast by revealing confidential aspects of his contract including things like, "I get paid more than you."
He regularly delayed filming on the show and would disappear without word - on one occasion he disappeared for two to three days after a disagreement with management.
He caused so much grief that SABC bigwigs and the show's producers flew to the set in Durban to try to fix things but the situation was unsaveble, especially considering the fact that he'd already been fired a first time.
The situation reached a critical point last year already which is why Gxhabashe was shot and written out. When the "Bring Gxhabashe back" meme exploded, the show decided to give him a second chance but when he returned his behaviour was even worse.
TVSA contacted Mpumelelo for comment but he didn't respond.
According to our source, now that Gxhabashe's out of the show, his wife Lindiwe Xulu, played by Dawn Thandeka King, will step up as the show's villain for Season 2.
Related links
Renewed! Uzalo lands Season 2
Meet the man behind Uzalo's Gxabhashe
Uzalo replaces Gen as No.1 show in SA