Zola Hashatsi Mourns ’Rhythm City’s Tumelo Makhafola, Blames Show’s Cancellation for Cast Deaths
- Actor Zola Hashatsi announced the passing of Rhythm City cast member Tumelo "Tumza" Makhafola
- Hashatsi made a bold claim, linking the eTV soapie's cancellation to the deaths of several of its cast members
- The news reignited grief over the many Rhythm City stars the entertainment industry has lost over the years
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The South African entertainment world is grieving once again. Actor and industry insider Zola Hashatsi took to social media on 26 October 2026 to announce the death of Tumelo "Tumza" Makhafola, who was connected to the beloved eTV soapie Rhythm City, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken.
Hashatsi did not hold back his emotions, writing, "Another Rhythm City Soldier down. My heart is bleeding. Rest In Power, Tumelo Tumza Makhafula." He went on to lament the toll that the losses have taken on the industry, simply stating, "We are losing our people."
The actor, who has spoken passionately about the show before, renewed his belief that the cancellation of Rhythm City has had devastating consequences.
"I'm still saying if the show didn't end, a lot of soldiers would be alive. Kubuhlungu (This is painful)," he wrote.
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He also reflected on what made the production so special, describing it as the finest working environment of his career.
"I Still say Rhythm City was the best place and space I've ever worked at. Crew and Cast were the ONE.. And we were ONE."
Source: Facebook
A long list of Rhythm City losses
Makhafola's passing adds to a deeply painful chapter for those connected to the show. Rhythm City has lost several of its most cherished cast members in recent years. Dumi Masilela, who played Sifiso Ngema, was fatally shot during an attempted hijacking in 2017. Brian "Bruno" Majola, who portrayed Bongani, passed away in 2022.
The industry has also mourned the loss of legendary actor Jamie Bartlett, who became a household name for his portrayal of the menacing David Genaro, and Mncedisi Shabangu, celebrated for bringing Khulekani Ngobese to life on screen.
Other beloved cast members who are no longer with us include Mary Makgatho, who played Connie; Sipho Ngema, known as Raymond; Mahlubi Kraai, who portrayed Monareng; Noxolo Maqashalala, who played Zothile; and veteran actress Tamara Jozi.
Rhythm City ran for over a decade before eTV brought it to an end, and its legacy continues to live on through the memories of the characters and the people behind them.
See Zola Hashatsi's tribute below.
Sibusisiwe Gugu Manqele passes away
In an earlier report, Briefly News shared online reactions to the passing of actress and scriptwriter Sibusisiwe Gugu Manqele.
Tributes poured out on social media as fans and followers celebrated her legacy and mourned her untimely death.
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Source: Briefly News
