Winnie Ntshaba reprises Khethiwe Buthelezi, the once-timid village girl turned glamorous entrepreneur and face of La Chocolata. Khethiwe returns at a low point: the money from Khaphela’s death is nearly gone
Jo-Anne Reyneke Makes a Triumphant Return to Generations: The Legacy as Refilwe Zungu
South African actress Jo-Anne Reyneke is set to make a much-anticipated return to the popular SABC1 soap opera *Generations: The Legacy*. On Friday, 28 August 2026, fans will once again see her in the role of Refilwe Zungu – a character known for her intelligence, ambition, and complex family background. But this time, Refilwe comes back to the screen transformed, bringing a new edge and depth to the storyline.
A Familiar Face, But a Brand-New Chapter
Jo-Anne originally joined *Generations: The Legacy* in 2020, captivating audiences with her portrayal of Refilwe, the daughter of the late struggle stalwart Daniel Zungu. Since then, fans have followed Refilwe’s tumultuous journey, only to experience her departure when she left for New York. Now, the actress is reprising her role to unveil a version of Refilwe that’s independent, determined, and driven by vengeance.
Refilwe’s character returns to the mainstream soap after years of growth and reflection, shaped by a complicated past marked by political manipulation and family tragedy. This evolution promises gripping drama and a fresh perspective on long-standing show dynamics.
Complex Family Ties and Intrigue
Refilwe’s narrative is deeply intertwined with her late father, Daniel Zungu, a respected figure in the anti-apartheid struggle who passed away 10 years ago. Daniel left behind not only a legacy of resistance but also a significant fortune, placing Refilwe in a position of influence and power. However, her journey is far from simple; her story unravels the painful reality of a daughter used by her stepfather Walter Nkaba, portrayed by Nimrod Nkosi, for political gain.
Walter Nkaba, a formidable politician, has wielded Refilwe as a pawn in his political chess games. Having grown up surrounded by alpha males, Refilwe has learned how to hold her own, especially when encountering her stepfather’s powerful associates. Jo-Anne describes this dynamic as one where Refilwe’s strength not only commands respect but can also leave those around her “weak at the knees,” showcasing the character’s newfound stature.
Jo-Anne Reyneke on Refilwe’s Evolution
Speaking to *Daily Sun* about reprising Refilwe’s role, Jo-Anne Reyneke delved into the complexities of the character’s growth. “She’s the daughter of Minister Nkaba (played by Nimrod Nkosi). Since she came of age, she has been attending meetings with her father and has been used as a pawn to get deals signed and impress the men. That’s who we saw the first time we met Refilwe,” Reyneke said.
“But three years later, when she comes back, she’s independent. There’s a rage in her that makes her want to take revenge so that other women don’t have to experience what she experienced,” added Jo-Anne, hinting at a storyline rich with empowerment and justice.
Anticipation Builds
The return of Refilwe Zungu is already stirring excitement among *Generations: The Legacy* fans, who are eager to see how the character’s vengeance-fueled path will unfold. Jo-Anne Reyneke’s compelling portrayal promises to add layers of intensity and emotion, further enriching the show’s intricate tapestry of social, political, and personal drama.
As Refilwe steps back onto the screen, viewers can expect a riveting blend of power struggles, family secrets, and a woman reclaiming her narrative – all of which will no doubt keep audiences hooked in the episodes to come.
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Generations: The Legacy returns on SABC1 with Jo-Anne Reyneke reprising her role as Refilwe Zungu this August 28, 2026. Don’t miss this captivating chapter in South African television’s most beloved soap opera.
WINNIE NTSHABA AND JO-ANNE REYNEKE RETURN TO GENERATIONS – THE LEGACY
SABC1 announces the return of actresses Winnie Ntshaba and Jo-Anne Reyneke to Generations – The Legacy.
Winnie Ntshaba reprises Khethiwe Buthelezi, the once-timid village girl turned glamorous entrepreneur and face of La Chocolata. Khethiwe returns at a low point: the money from Khaphela’s death is nearly gone, Sara has taken her child, and her attempts to rebuild—reaching out to an old friend—quickly unravel. Still ambitious and driven, she’ll go to great lengths to reclaim her status, but remains vulnerable to toxic relationships and prone to explosive, self-destructive reactions when desperate.
Winnie Ntshaba: “Returning to Generations is more than an honour… Khethiwe has always remained a very special part of me. When I received the call that there was another chapter of her story waiting to be told, I simply couldn’t say no.”
Jo-Anne Reyneke returns as Refilwe, daughter of the politically cunning Walter Nkaba. Used by her father yet no pushover, Refilwe is smart, charming, ruthless and ambitious—comfortable among powerful men and determined to prove she’s valued for herself. She returns with a plan, able to move between politicians, disadvantaged communities and zama-zamas, and shows genuine empathy for ordinary people.
Jo-Anne Reyneke: “I was beyond honoured to get the call… for them to call and ask you back again means they must have enjoyed what you did, but also I am praying that they missed working with me.”
Two familiar faces bring new chapters: as Khethiwe fights to rebuild and Refilwe seeks power, viewers can expect unexpected alliances, explosive confrontations, complicated relationships and plenty of scandal.
