Renowned South African actress Thandy Matlaila returns to the SABC by joining the cast of the long-running soapie, “Muvhango”.

Matlaila celebrates two decades in the entertainment industry, a journey that has seen her grace the screens in popular dramas such as “Tshisa”, “The Queen”, “Rhythm City” and “Soul City”.

Matlaila made her eagerly anticipated entrance on the revamped “Muvhango” on Tuesday, February 4, stepping into the shoes of Naomi Mayambela, a nurse with a layered storyline.

Her character operates an illicit psychiatric practice, together with another new character, Dr Khalema (Nicholas “Nick Soul” Nkuna), who joined the show on Friday, January 24.

While Matlaila’s role currently remains a cameo supporting Dr Khalema, it promises to expand as the narrative unfolds, allowing viewers a closer look at her life, family dynamics and the motivations behind her risky professional choices.

Matlaila shared her excitement about her new venture with her fans and followers.

Coupled with a photo dump, she wrote in the caption: “‼️‼️‼️ NEW ROLE ALERT ‼️ ‼️‼️ 20 years and God said ‘Go back to where it all began- SABC’ Thank you @muvhangosa @wordofmouthpictures for allowing me to bring Naomi Mayambela to life, I know that a lot of people will relate to her struggles.

“Please tune in to @muvhangosa tonight #9pm @sabc2 to see what Dr Khalema @nicksoulworld & Nurse Mayambela get up to …& every other night 😉...”

The heartfelt announcement was met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages from fans and industry colleagues.

Actress and TV show host Nomsa Buthelezi wrote: “Dear Thespian DO YOUR THING 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾💃💃💃Congratulations honey ❤️❤️.”

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A post shared by Thandy Matlaila (@thandymatlaila)

@muvhangosa commented: “Hey boo thaang. Welcome to the family.”

“Savage Beauty” actress Rosemary Zimu, “Isithembiso” star Tiisetso Thoka and other industry peers also send their well-wishes.

In an online interview, Matlaila reflected on her return to the SABC, calling it “an exciting moment” in her career.

“Celebrating 20 years in the industry and going back to where it all began, the SABC. ‘Muvhango’ is an iconic SA production that reflects our heritage, and I couldn’t be more honoured to be a part of it,” she said.

Matlaila is one among many other new talents that have been cast in the revitalised soapie.

Actress Gabisile Tshabalala recently made her entry after taking over from Bontle Rampa, who portrayed Bubbles Mosipidi.

Last year, “Muvhango” underwent a revamp after plummeting numbers almost saw it being cancelled.

“What you're going to be seeing this season is probably the most dramatic change and growth you’ve seen because our viewers demanded that we go fancier, younger, fashionista, bold,” said “Muvhango” founder Duma ka Ndlovu.