"Goodbye Dintle, Hello Future": Mapaseka Koetle Bids Farewell to Scandal! After 12 Years
JOHANNESBURG – After 12 years of captivating audiences as the troublesome-turned-CEO Dintle on e.tv's Scandal!, actress and podcaster Mapaseka Koetle is preparing to say goodbye to the iconic character as the show draws to a close in June next year.
Koetle, who joined the show at just 22 years old to play a 16-year-old Dintle, reflected on her journey, acknowledging the emotional impact of the show's cancellation and expressing gratitude for the opportunities it has afforded her.
"Now it is goodbye to the character and goodbye to the show. I think more than anything, I understand why so many people on X were worried about me. They were praying for me, saying, 'we hope you are okay.' I’m fine," she said, recalling the day the news broke. She noted that it was particularly emotional for crew members who had been with Scandal! since its inception.
Initially introduced for a teenage pregnancy storyline, Dintle quickly became a fan favourite, securing her place on the show for over a decade. During that time, Dintle transformed from an uneducated hustler into a mother of two, a multiple-times married woman, and ultimately, a CEO. This evolution made her one of the show's most dynamic and memorable characters.
Koetle, who is currently the longest-standing cast member, said she always knew that one day she would have to part ways with Dintle. She added that, while the show's end meant job losses in a tough economy, people had gradually accepted the reality. "I’ll be fine. I’ve worked very hard. I’ve saved enough, and my businesses are doing well," she affirmed.
Koetle shared that she felt as though she and Dintle were growing up together. She welcomed her first child around the time Dintle had her second, and launched her own clothing business around the time Dintle became a CEO. When Dintle's second husband died on screen, Koetle was going through a divorce in real life. "The journey had been 'tough yet beautiful'," she said, noting how her personal life and Dintle's journey were deeply intertwined.
The actress expressed her gratitude to Scandal! for allowing her to explore other projects over the years, acknowledging that fame, while not always translating to wealth, opened doors and provided opportunities.
Koetle, who is also known for her role in Adulting, has always prioritised keeping her private life private, preferring to control what she shares about her family, romantic relationships, and friendships. She stated that she would not speak publicly about her divorce because her ex-husband does not have the same media privilege. "I hold dear to things that meant something to me," she explained.
She also took her time before sharing videos of her daughter online, having witnessed the harshness of the internet. While she now includes her daughter in brand campaigns, she ensures she never forces her to participate when she doesn't feel like it.
Despite her success, Koetle revealed that she often avoids celebrity events and red carpets due to anxiety and fear of being judged for her looks. "I have my own insecurities and fears. I will work on it. One day, I will be nominated for the Saftas. I will have no choice but to go," she admitted.
Koetle credits her grounded personality to her strict upbringing in Bloemfontein, where she was raised by a spiritual healer. She said her mother's discipline shaped her self-respect and conscience.
Looking ahead, Koetle plans to focus on her podcast, Mommy Diaries, which grew from conversations she had with other mothers at her now-closed restaurant, Gorge Grab n Go Café. She will also dedicate more time to her clothing brand, Uzuri Secrets, and has three new projects lined up. The actress said she would continue auditioning for new roles but was grateful for the freedom to now own her time.
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