Saying Goodbye to James: Dingaan ‘DSK’ Khumalo reflects on 22 years with ‘Muvhango’ and life after the curtain falls

After 22 years portraying the beloved and complex character of James Motsamai on the popular SABC 2 soapie Muvhango, Dingaan ‘DSK‘ Khumalo is preparing to take his final bow — not just from a role, but from a chapter that has shaped his soul, his career, and his place in the South African television history.

The iconic show is set to air its final episode on 12 August 2025, marking the end of an era for both fans and the cast who gave it life.

For over two decades, viewers watched Dingaan evolve — not only as James, the sharp-suited businessman navigating love, loyalty, and legacy — but as a man whose consistency, grace, and presence brought depth to our screens.

In this exclusive interview with Africa Jamz FM News, Dingaan opens up about the emotional weight of closing this life-changing chapter and where life is leading him next.

A bittersweet farewell to ‘James‘

Dingaan has portrayed the character of James for over two decades. He opens up about the heartfelt and spiritual journey of saying goodbye to a role that has deeply shaped his identity and life story.

“I mean, it can never be nice. We have been on the show for quite some time, and breaking up a marriage, relationship, partnership, or friendship of such a long time obviously can never be nice. But as they say, no situation is permanent. Things come to an end at some point. But yeah, it’s very sad. It’s very sad that such a big production, such a loved production, has to come to an end,” said Dingaan.

Reflecting on a role that mirrors his true self

Dingaan joined the popular soapie Muvhango in 2003. Looking back on that time, he shares what the role has taught him about himself as a man, an actor, and a storyteller.

“”I don’t think the role was meant to teach me anything as a man. I mean, it’s a job. When I go and play James, I take off Dingaan Siyabonga Khumalo and I wear James Motsamai. But then again, James Motsamai has the same characteristics or similarities with Dingaan Khumalo—I mean, he loves his kids, he’s a dedicated man in everything he does, which is what I do in my personal capacity. So, maybe I should say I have been lucky to play a character that isn’t far from Dingaan in a few things. But yeah,” said Dingaan.

‘Muvhango’s enduring legacy

Muvhango is not merely a television show; it played a significant role in shaping South African TV and became ingrained in our culture. Dingaan shares his thoughts on the legacy that James and the entire show leave behind, both for himself and the industry.

“Muvhango is a household name. Muvhango took the Venda culture, Venda language, and the Venda people to the stage they are at now. That can never be forgotten. In anything that I do, whether other shows or programmes, people always call me James because of Muvhango. That’s how big the show was, that’s how appreciative people were of it, and we can’t run away from that. The legacy of Muvhango will live on for years to come. Mr. Duma Ndlovu actually outdid himself with this production. He has done many productions before, but with this one, he truly outdid himself,” said Dingaan.

The joy behind the scenes of ‘Muvhango‘

As Muvhango comes to an end, Dingaan reflects on the unforgettable moments—both on camera and behind the scenes—that will always hold a special place in his heart.

“The memories I will always cherish from being on Muvhango were actually the first two or three years after I joined. When we had the cast of Makalo Mokoena, Mara Louw, Sindi Dlathu, and Lindi Chibi, that was the most fun I ever had at work. The behind-the-scenes moments—us sitting in the green room waiting for our scenes—were the most enjoyable part of being with that cast because those people were just amazingly fun. You wouldn’t want to be late for work because you knew that just chilling with those guys would be a fun moment. Those are the kinds of things some of us will never forget but will always cherish,” said Dingaan.

Life after ‘Muvhango‘

Having shared many special memories from the production, Dingaan now opens up about where his heart is guiding him next, and after such a long and emotionally fulfilling chapter, the types of roles and stories he feels inspired to pursue in this new phase of his career and life.

“”Well, there are other things I have been busy with. There are other shows I have been doing, like Mamazala, and I’m into real estate as well. So, there’s a BnB that I just finished building in Hartbeespoort, and those are the kinds of things I want to focus on now. If I get other roles, of course, I would love to continue acting, but it’s not the main focus. The main focus is to concentrate on business and the shows I’m currently involved in. Then, if other opportunities come, of course, I would like to do Netflix, Showmax, and overseas productions. But at the moment, I’m purely focusing on making the guesthouse a success—and making it as big as Muvhango was,” said Dingaan, laughing.

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