Why is Bonnie Mbuli not on the new season of Rockville?

Earlier this week the reason for her omission became clear, City Press reported.

The author and Traffic star apparently couldn’t fit Rockville into her schedule after landing a major role on British detective series Wallander opposite leading man Sir Kenneth Branagh.

Wallander is one of four major international TV series that have been filming in Cape Town.

The news of her involvement in the series, adapted from the Swedish novelist Henning Mankell’s Kurt Wallander novels, was announced by the actress on Instagram.

The attitude in this picture reminds me so much of Dudu Bogatsu. I have been overwhelmed with messages and conversations from Rockville fans who are disappointed and sad that I didn't return ,so I figured it's time we had a chat .I had no idea how much you guys loved this character and I am humbled by your support and appreciation for my work.I too am disappointed that I couldn't return, i really loved playing Dudu and enjoyed the Rockville family.Due to scheduling issues, we couldn't make it work this time as I was shooting something else.Alas, all is not lost , there are many exciting things in store and I am certain that the Rockville writers, cast and crew will keep you glued to your screens. Lots of love xxx

A photo posted by Bonnie Mbuli (@officialbonbizzle) on Jan 11, 2015 at 1:50pm PST

She said that she will be playing Branagh’s investigative partner Grace in the fourth season of Wallander, titled The White Lioness. The much-anticipated season only has three episodes and marks the end of the series.

Other local actors John Kani, Tumisho Masha and Deon Lotz have reportedly also landed cameo roles on the series.

Mbuli also posted this message on her Twitter page: "So nervous for this gig … gonna need some serious big match temperament, playing with the big guns now! Wish me luck, I’m going in!"

So nervous for this gig ...gonna need some serious big match temperament, playing with the big guns now ! Wish me luck , I'm going in!

— BonBizzle* (@BonnieMbuli) January 13, 2015

Her close friend, musician Thandiswa Mazwai wished her friend good luck on Twitter.

On her unexpected departure from Mzansi Magic’s Rockville, which has seen her replaced by Terry Pheto, Mbuli posted this message on Instagram on Sunday: “I too am disappointed that I couldn’t return, I really loved playing Dudu and enjoyed the Rockville family. Due to scheduling issues, we couldn’t make it work this time as I was shooting something else.”

The other international productions that have been filming in Cape Town include Dominion, Black Sails and Homeland, all using predominantly South African crews facilitated by local production companies, who are gaining skills and capacity in the process.