Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AFTER providing captivating entertainment to viewers since 2023, South African soap opera Smoke and Mirrors, which airs on e.tv has been scheduled to end in April 2026.
Despite disappointing fans, the end of the telenovela comes with good news as South Africa-based veteran thespian Ernest Ndlovu has joined the cast.
His main job is to play a pivotal role on the denouement of Smoke and Mirrors, ensuring that the production ends on a high note.
Ndlovu portrays a character of a “wealthy and mysterious mogul” — a role that promises to ignite fresh drama in the fictional town of Emnyameni, which is the setting of Smoke and Mirrors.
From his base in Johannesburg, Ndlovu confirmed that he has joined Smoke and Mirrors.
“I am part of the cast and scenes on my storyline were recently shot. I can’t really say much because the production is ending early next year. Fans just have to watch and see on their own how the soap opera ends,” said Ndlovu.
On the other note, Vuyelwa Booi who is e.tv Manager of Programing confirmed that, indeed Smoke and Mirrors is to conclude its final season, bringing the story full circle, wrapping up after an impressive three-season run.
“The channel is proud to have aired such a gripping and multi-layered story that kept viewers captivated every night.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the production company, The Final Chapter Production, and the talented cast and crew for their exceptional work over the past three seasons,” said Booi.
Ernest Ndlovu was born and bred in Bulawayo. He is a seasoned figure in the Southern African theatre and on-screen acting.
He has graced some of South Africa’s top productions, including Shaka iLembe as King Jama, Housekeepers as Senzo, UZulu Nomhlaba as Buthelezi Mfecane, Umlilo as Mkombosi, Isibaya as Ngwebedla and on Mkhaba as Mzi Mkhumalo, to mention a few.
Ndlovu is the brain behind local drama series Isithembu, which was a hit on ZBCtv in the early 2000s.
