By SIHLE MKHIZE
Winning the Best Actress in a Telenovela by Sindi Dlathu (47) in the South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) has caused a social media furore. It was the second time in a row that Dlathu picked up the gong. She left Muvhango to play a leading role in the telenovela The River, where she plays the role of Lindiwe Dlamini-Dikana, a fierce woman, who would do anything to protect her wealth and maintain her lavish lifestyle.
Dlathu’s die-hard fans came out guns blazing accusing her former employers, Muvhango of dimming her light and delaying her progress in the past few years.
One of them, Kulani congratulated Dlathu and lashed out at Muvhango. He said leaving this drama was the best decision she could have ever made.
“Since she left Muvhango she’s been winning year in and year out,” wrote Kulani.
Siba Mabhena defended Muvhango saying this is ridiculous. “It’s overly ridiculous to try throw shade at Muvhango by saying since Sindi Dlathu left Muvhango she has been winning year in and year out, forgetting that it was Muvhango that made her a household name. So, for me there shouldn’t even be a comparison she just grew.”
Mzansi Magic also sent a heartfelt congratulations message to the late veteran actor Menzi Ngubane. He was honoured for his prolific talent and impact in the  industry. He was posthumously awarded for Best Actor for his role on Isibaya.
“Your gift is sorely missed. May you continue to rest in peace… perfect and eternal,” Mzansi Magic wrote on their Twitter account.
The other big winners were Meshach Mavuso who won the best supporting actor in telenovela and Clint Brink as best actor in TV soap. The annual awards were held virtually and broadcast on SABC 3 and DStv’s Mzansi Magic.
