Following the sudden exits of Vusi Kunene and Rantabeng Makapan earlier this year, another Generations star has left the soapie amid huge controversy! tvplus has learned that the actor Siphiwe Mtshali who plays the very popular role of Zamani Khoza has been fired from South Africa's most watched soapie. He got his marching papers from the producers.

Sources told tvplus that the actor didn't quit but was fired. The soapie didn't have any formal answers to tvplus' enquiries but said in a terse statement that the actor will leave the show "soon".

According to an article in The Sunday World newspaper, the actor has allegedly left the soapie to pursue a career in music and stage acting.

However, tvplus spoke to a reliable source on set who told us that the actor was given the boot: "He didn't quit. He was definitely fired."

Siphiwe told the newspaper that he wanted to "try other avenues. Right now my main focus will be my music. I'm going to miss the Generations cast because they're like family to me. If I have a problem I'll still go back to them and ask for advice, like I did when I left Jam Alley. I am still friends with them," he commented.

Tvplus contacted Generations for a comment on the matter and they referred us to the press release issued on behalf of the show’s executive producer and creator, Mfundi Vundla.

"We have nothing further to comment other than what has been issued in the press statement," said the Generations spokesperson. Mfundi Vundla said that Siphiwe's departure is a "cyclic thing". "Siphiwe is a very talented young man, but every now and then our cast grows too big and then we're not in a position to create stories for all the characters. We decided that the character of Zamani must make space for some new and exciting stories we'd like to develop with some of the other characters," said Mfundi, adding that "he’s a major talent destined to go far".

Tvplus then contacted Siphiwe's agents, Contractors, who promised to follow up with an interview. At the time of going to press and after numerous follow-up calls from tvplus, neither his agent nor Siphiwe bothered calling back.

Siphiwe is currently working with former TKZee star Tokollo "Magesh" Tshabalala as the two musicians co-own the Soweto South Africa (SOSA) record label. Siphiwe joined Generations in October 2005 after working in the local entertainment industry as an actor, presenter, dancer and voice artist. He gained fame while presenting YO.TV as well as hosting Jam Alley prior to working on Generations. He portrayed the role of Ajax's brother, Zamani, and has played a pivotal role in the success of Ajax's music career.

Sipho "Psyfo" Ngwenya, who plays Ajax, worked closely with Siphiwe and wished him the best for his future endeavours. "We wish Siphiwe all the best for the future. He's a great actor and I've enjoyed working with him for the last year. He will be sorely missed," said Psyfo.

Do you think Siphiwe was given the boot, or did he quit? Add your comment in the comment box below.