Actor Vusi Kunene (Jack Mabaso) returns to Generations after dumping ‘House of Zwide’

Fans of Generations: The Legacy are in for a treat as iconic actor Vusi Kunene, known as Jack Mabaso in the SABC 1 soapie, makes a return after leaving e.tv’s House of Zwide earlier this month.

Now you know Jack Mabaso is not dead, as Kunene returns to Generations: The Legacy.

The production team announced in a media statement that Kunene will return to the screen on August 14.

“After a prolonged outcry for his return, Generations: The Legacy is ecstatic to announce the return of Vusi Kunene as the iconic supervillain, Jack Mabaso. The gloved colossus of South African television can be seen from August 14 2024, coming out of the proverbial shadows to spread his special brand of terror and respect,” the statement read.

Kunene’s dreaded, vicious and cunning character dates back to the beginning of the soapie in the early ’90s when it was still called Generations.

He left and returned to the show in 2015, only to make a dramatic exit in 2021. Kunene said at the time: “You know you love to hate Jack. And he loves it.”

Kunene told the publication then that he had always enjoyed playing Jack. “I’ve always had a serious passion for Jack. He is the most popular character I have ever played, and bringing him to life has been a pleasure. I’m really going to miss everyone because Generations is like a family.”

The soapie’s creator and executive producer Mfundi Vundla said Kunene was one of the “truly great” actors. “He will continue to heighten the standard of entertainment television in South Africa and beyond, reminding us of the iconic status of Generations.”

Casting director Russel Savadier said the show’s fans can expect a dramatic return by Kunene. “One of the great lingering questions on Generations: The Legacy is finally getting answered: ‘is he dead, or isn’t he?’ I’m as delighted as anyone that he’s alive and well, and returning in dramatic fashion to our show. Kunene’s re-entry into our world is going to keep viewers glued to their seats.”

The soapie’ cast and crew are thrilled to have Kunene back, promising to “bring the heat we know our viewers love and demand”.