Popular actress Rami Chuene has confirmed that her role as Gracious, popularly known as T-Gom, in the Mzansi Magic telenovela The Queen is coming to an end.
Sunday World reported over the weekend that members of the cast received new scripts that see T-Gom being killed off.
In a tweet on Sunday, Chuene confirmed the speculation but stopped short of shedding further light on it citing legal advice.
‘TGOM nation forever’
She wrote, “Yes, TGOM’s stint on #TheQueenMzansi has come to an end. Unfortunately, I won’t be getting into details as advised by my legal team.
“I still have to finish shooting and I’m hoping to execute as excellently, exceptionally and professionally as I always have. #TGOMNATION forever.”
In a follow-up tweet, the actress added, “Thank you for all the well wishes and blessings. It’s been a ride. We keep pushing and working because the #SHOWMUSTGOON no matter what.”
Chuene’s role has been a cornerstone of the telenovela, which tells the story of intrigues between two families – the Khozas, led by Harriet played by Connie Ferguson, and the Mabuzas, led by Chuene’s character T-Gom.
Rumoured fallout
News of Chuene’s exit has fuelled rumours of a fallout between her and Connie and Shona Ferguson, who are The Queen‘s executive producers.
In October 2019, Chuene pinned a Twitter thread she had written earlier in September supporting fellow actress Vatiswa Ndara’s claims of actors getting a raw deal in the industry.
Ndara is popular for playing NomaRussia in another telenovela produced by Ferguson Films, iGazi.
She had written an open letter to Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa revealing that she had rejected an offer of R110,000 from the Fergusons to continue her role on iGazi‘s Season 3.
The talented actress said this amount wasn’t much because the contract entailed “limitless calls.” This means she could have been on set for 12 hours a day, Monday to Saturday.
Sunday World cited sources who said Chuene’s support for Ndara had caused a rift between her and the Fergusons.
Entertainment commentator Kgopolo Mphela also tweeted on Sunday, “I know the issues around @ramichuene leaving #TheQueenMzansi are loaded and will respect the process and privacy.
“But, THIS … yah… it is so disappointing that we have to do these things to each other.”
In another tweet, he also hinted that Dineo Moeketsi, who plays Kea, may also depart the telenovela. Other unconfirmed reports suggest that Setumo Motsoaledi, who plays Mmabatho, may follow suit.
Ferguson Films has not yet officially commented on the matter.