Noko Mashilo
After seven months away from television screens, actor Bongani Madondo’s brief return to Skeem Saam as Sifiso Ntuli has reignited excitement among loyal viewers who had long wondered whether the beloved character would ever make a comeback.
His appearance at the highly anticipated wedding of Lehasa Maphosa and Pretty Seakamela quickly became one of the soapie’s most talked about moments, with fans flooding social media with messages of nostalgia and appreciation.
Yet behind the celebration lies a different reality. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception from viewers, Madondo has revealed that he is currently not involved in any artistic projects, leaving fans questioning what the future holds for one of Skeem Saam’s most memorable characters.
Speaking to The News Desk, Madondo said returning to the role of Sifiso Ntuli was both exciting and rewarding.
“I couldn’t wait to step into his shoes again because I enjoy portraying this character. Believe you me, I was happy to receive the call to return for the wedding storyline. I have no doubt that viewers were waiting to see me again and wanted to know what would happen between Sifiso and MaNtuli after the last time they met,” said Madondo.
Viewers will recall the bitter fallout between the siblings over an insurance payout, with MaNtuli’s greed ultimately leading Sifiso to cut ties with her.
Madondo said his 14 year journey on Skeem Saam has shaped him in many ways.
“The good thing is that there are similarities between me and Sifiso. Perhaps that’s why the character became so memorable. There was a warm connection, boosted by a sense of humour, between Sifiso and MaNtuli,” he said.
The actor described reuniting with the cast and crew as a homecoming.
“It felt like being back home, surrounded by beautiful people with great energy,” he said.
According to Madondo, filming the wedding scenes was a special experience.
“The atmosphere was phenomenal. There was laughter and happiness everywhere. We all wanted to do our best to deliver a top notch wedding storyline for our viewers,” he said.
Having portrayed Sifiso for 14 years, Madondo said slipping back into character required little effort.
“Sifiso is my soulmate. I didn’t have to do anything special. Sifiso and Bongani know exactly what to do when it’s time to work. We simply navigate the challenges he faces in each scene,” he said.
Reflecting on his time on the show, Madondo said some of his fondest memories include sharing scenes with industry legends.
“It was a blessing to work with icons such as the late Patrick Shai, who played my brother in law. I also enjoyed working alongside the powerful Dieketseng Mnisi, as well as Africa Tsoai, Lydia Mokgokoloshi and Treasure Shabalala. Beyond the cameras, there were many moments of joy and laughter, especially after wrapping on Fridays,” he said.
While he is currently not involved in acting projects, Madondo revealed that he previously ventured into business with a cleaning services company called Fuzeshengu, established in 2022.
“Things did not go as planned, so we had to put the business on hold. Maybe I will revisit the idea again. We offered cleaning services after events such as funerals, birthday parties, tombstone unveilings and weddings. We also provided grave closing services,” he said.
Outside television, Madondo is also known as a theatre director, having worked on productions such as It Ain’t Over, The Intruder and Souls With No Success.
“I love directing and I want to see myself become one of the best directors in the industry one day,” he said.
His advice to aspiring actors is to prioritise education and skills development.
“Go to school and equip yourself with skills so that you do not become a victim of exploitation. This is a tough industry and you need to be strong, disciplined and dedicated,” he said.
Away from the spotlight, Madondo describes himself as a humble, understanding, loving and supportive person.
“I am a dedicated father of three and a proud husband to a loving, caring and supportive wife,” he said.
Fans who spoke to The News Desk said Madondo’s return reminded them why Sifiso remains one of the show’s most cherished characters.
Agnes Molokomme (45) from Ga Molete in Senwabarwana said she could hardly believe her eyes when Sifiso appeared on screen.
“The moment I saw him, I had to rewind. It has been so long, but it felt like he never left,” she said.
Pretty Thobejane (55) from Jane Furse believes viewers deserve more than a brief appearance.
“We need more than a wedding appearance. Bring Sifiso back permanently,” she said.
Patrick Ramapulana (36) from Meadowlands, Soweto, said some characters never leave viewers’ hearts.
“Sifiso is one of them. It was great seeing him again,” he said.
Mabore Maile (26) from Westernburg in Polokwane said the wedding episode became even more memorable because of Sifiso’s return.
“The wedding was already a big event, but Sifiso’s return made it even more special. There is no wedding without uncles and aunts. Viva to the writers of the show,” she said.