Hlomla Dandala finally responds to the criticism about stepping into Zolisa Xaluva’s shoes

Award-winning actor Hlomla Dandala took on the role of Caesar Ngonyama on e.tv’s Smoke & Mirrors, replacing fellow thespian Zolisa Xaluva. Viewers shared their opinions on The River’s Hlomla Dandala as the show’s new Céaser. Many people stated that the role no longer gives them chills like it did when Zolisa Xaluva performed it.

Although Hlomla Dandala is a talented actor, others believe he is struggling in his new role as Smoke and Mirrors’ Ceaser. Zolisa Xaluva, a brilliant actor, left the show to play Detective Bheki Ndlovu in Mzansi Magic’s criminal thriller series Code 13. Dandala took over for the outstanding actor.

Social media users are calling for Xaluva’s return, stating that Dandala’s performance is not as convincing as that of the villainous character.Viewers are disappointed with Hlomla Dandala’s portrayal of Ceaser, feeling he doesn’t match up to former actor Zolisa Xaluva.

@LadySeniorKage commented: “I feel so disconnected from the new Caesar . It’s not working, maan. Bring back Zolisa . No offense to Hlomla but hai maan…noh#SmokeandMirrors.”

In response to the viewers, Hlomla Dandala says that he is happy to be playing this new character and sees it as a challenging opportunity to show off his abilities.Dandala stated that his goal was to perform at the highest level because he knew how much the character was loved by the public.He said in a statement:

“This is an exciting challenge for me … playing a villainous character such as Caesar will surely bring the best out of me. But, more than anything, I’m excited to be back with the e-family and I look forward to a real joyride….”

 

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Xaluva, who has now joined Mzansi Magic’s upcoming drama series Code 13, expressed his excitement for his next chapter and his best wishes to Dandala via City Press.
“This is the end of a chapter and I’m looking forward to the next one. I like to keep things moving and, outside of Code 13, I’m busy on another production, with a couple more pending for the year. I would like to invite all Zolisa Xaluva fans to join me in this exciting new chapter on my journey as a performing artist. I wish my replacement the very best; Caesar Ngonyama is a fantastic character to play.”