Nolwazi Shange Ngubeni says Scandal! role is 'one the greatest joys' of her career after show exit

• Nolwazi Shange Ngubeni, who played the role of Mbali Kubeka on e.tv's Scandal!, has left the weeknight soapie. 
• She described being on the show as "one of the greatest joys" of her career. 
  
• She leaves to continue as a casting director in Mzansi Magic's (DStv 161) Umkhokha – The Curse, which is returning as a telenovela. 

Award-winning actor Nolwazi Shange Ngubeni is walking away with fond memories from e.tv weeknight soapie Scandal! as she bows out of her character, Mbali Kubeka. 

"Being on Scandal! has been one of the greatest joys of my career. I truly appreciate the immense support the producers, cast and crew have shown me," she said in a press statement. "I walk away with fond memories as I prepare to take on the next phase of my journey. Thank you to all the viewers for watching and consistently supporting my work."   

In Wednesday's episode, Mbali was shot and killed by her on-screen mother, Petunia (Makhosazana Ndlovu), as she tried to kill her sister, Winne (Fundiswa Ngcobo). Per TVSA, Mbali's husband, Jojo (Melusi Mbele), will try to cover the crime. 

Following her exit, Shange Ngubeni will continue as a casting director in the new season of Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) telenovela Umkhokha – The Curse. She also has another production lined up that is yet to be announced. 

"Nolwazi carried the weight of Mbali's schemes with such conviction, dedication and brought layers to the character that were an absolute delight to watch on screen," Scandal! head writer and creative producer Grace Mhlaba said in the statement.

"The Scandal! team is sad to see the end of Mbali Kubeka, and we appreciate the time she spent with us."