Actress Nomvelo Makhanya, who played the character of Lindiwe Maseko-Ngema on the popular South African soap opera Scandal!, has shed more light on the reasons behind her departure from the show in 2022. In a recent interview on the Access Genie Podcast, Makhanya alleged that the working environment on the set of Scandal! was “toxic,” which nearly led her to contemplate suicide.

According to Makhanya, the situation escalated in the last few months of her time on the show, as she claimed to have been mistreated and had everything she did scrutinized. She stated that she was written off the show just a week and a half after she reported her director and floor manager for being intoxicated on set. Makhanya asserted that the news of her dismissal was presented to her in a way that made it appear as if she was the one with the problem, rather than the management.

Furthermore, Makhanya revealed that she faced difficulties finding work after her departure from Scandal!, as she was allegedly “redlisted,” a term she used to describe a situation where she was effectively blacklisted and prevented from securing new roles. Makhanya expressed that this experience was deeply distressing, leading to a period of extreme anxiety and suicidal thoughts. However, she noted that she has since been able to find financial success outside of the acting industry.

The allegations made by Nomvelo Makhanya have shed light on the potential challenges and complexities that can arise within the entertainment industry, particularly when it comes to power dynamics and the treatment of actors. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering healthy and supportive work environments that prioritize the well-being of all those involved in the creative process.