Actress Mogau Motlhatswi Speaks on Controversial ‘Skeem Saam’ Role Amid Viewer Backlash

Beloved South African actress Mogau Motlhatswi, known for her long-standing role as Mapitsi Maputla on the hit SABC1 drama Skeem Saam, has opened up about the complexities and emotional weight of portraying her now-controversial character.

In a candid interview, Motlhatswi revealed that while she loves playing Mapitsi, she understands why fans are currently dragging the character on social media. Mapitsi, a wife and mother on the show, has recently shocked audiences by starting an affair with a colleague — betraying her husband, Thabo Maputla, played by Hungani Ndlovu.

“I’ve received so many mixed reactions — some viewers are angry, others are glued to the screen because they want to see how it all unfolds,” she said.

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 Viewers React to Mapitsi’s Betrayal

The storyline has caused a stir online, with many fans calling out Mapitsi for being unfaithful and disrespecting her family values. Social media has been flooded with reactions, some defending her complexity as a character, while others express disappointment in the direction of the story.

“Mapitsi is embarrassing herself. After everything Tbose has done for her?” commented one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

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Despite the outrage, Mogau says the backlash proves she’s doing her job well. “If people are this passionate about the character, then it means I’m portraying her truthfully,” she added.

 Real-Life Parallels and Big News

Interestingly, just like her character, Motlhatswi is also a wife and mother in real life. In a beautiful surprise for her fans, she recently announced her pregnancy on Instagram, receiving love and congratulations from across Mzansi.

Fans were quick to compare the fictional Mapitsi to real-life Mogau, praising the actress for handling both her on-screen and personal life with grace.

 From Limpopo to National Fame

Born and raised in Limpopo, Mogau Motlhatswi has grown to become one of Mzansi’s most respected television talents. Her portrayal of Mapitsi — a complex woman trying to juggle career, marriage, motherhood, and now temptation — has earned her both acclaim and controversy over the years.

While Skeem Saam viewers remain divided over Mapitsi’s decisions, there’s no denying the power of Motlhatswi’s performance. She continues to bring depth, vulnerability, and realism to a character that sparks national conversation.