The Sunday Mail
Dennis Chimanzi
SOME 28 years after breathing his last, the late actor and musician Safirio “Mukadota” Madzikatire, is still hitting the headlines.
Actor Admire Kuzhangaira (pictured), popularly known as “Bhutisi”, is making it into the news with “Mukadota Reloaded”, a comedy series modelled around the works of the late Mukadota.
Kuzhangaira has so far produced, to critical acclaim, several episodes of “Mukadota Reloaded”, which is now in season two.
The drama has taken television and social media by storm, garnering decent views and reviews in the process.
Bhutisi said he decided to imitate Mukadota so as to preserve the late comedian’s legacy.
Mukadota rose to fame in the early 80s.
The artiste — together with the likes of Mai Rwizi, Bonnie, Baba and Mai Phineas, Chibhodhoro, Katarina and Machipisa — always left many spellbound.
Their production “Mukadota Family” was a must-watch prime time show.
“The younger generation, born years after Mukadota’s demise, must also enjoy his works. The episodes that we have released so far have given young people the opportunity to sample and appreciate how he acted,” he said.
“Mukadota Reloaded” is available on social media platforms and NRTV.
On social media, the production is garnering thousands of views.
Bhutisi said he got a favourable response from viewers and followers, which further prompted him to come up with more episodes.
“Mukadota was a legend, whose works excites even those who were not even born when he was still active. I was pleasantly surprised to note that even young people are watching the drama,” said Bhutisi.
Bhutisi has so far been nailing the role. His dress sense, language, tone and gestures are simply on point.
“This is great stuff from Bhutisi. I have just been taken down memory lane,” commented Patrick Mugari, an elderly avid follower of the drama.
Taurai “Gringo Junior” Boora, son of the late actor Lazarus “Gringo” Boora, said he is also one of the actors who was inspired by Mukadota and enjoyed watching the show on television.
“He inspired many people. As I was growing up, I wanted to act like him. His legacy will surely live on,” Boora said.
He urged promoters to bring back “Legends Night”-themed events, where the country’s legends from various fields are honoured.
Gringo Jnr successfully took over the role of his father as Gringo and has thus far produced several productions themed around the character.
He is working closely with the brains behind the Gringo character, Enock Chihombori, and veteran actors like Mbudziyadhura, Gweshegweshe and Chatikobo. Their productions have received the thumbs up from fans.
Aaron Chiundura Moyo, a veteran scriptwriter and author, hailed Bhutisi and Gringo Jnr for reviving the legends’ works.
“Our legends must be given the respect they deserve. What Bhutisi and Boora are doing is commendable and I urge Zimbabweans to support them,” Moyo said.
“They are helping us to remember our fallen stars while giving the new generation an insight into the late actors’ works.”
