First it was Faye Peters. Then Abena Ayivor. Now Thahira Syed's bidding farewell to SABC1's troubled hit soap, Generations. Thahira, who plays Shaan, made her last appearance on set this week, but her character will still feature on the box until the end of the year.
Her exit, however amicable, certainly seems to add weight to persistent rumours of an unhappy workplace. Thahira joined Generations five years ago.
First she was Shaan Naidu, then she became Shaan Maistry after getting hitched to Deven Maistry (played by Strini Pillai).
Her fan base has grown over the past half-decade and scores of followers will be disappointed to see her leave. However, as an actress, she has matured, while undoubtedly inspiring young women.
When quizzed about her motivation for leaving the show and her future plans, Thahira said she needed to "thank the viewers who've watched and empathised with Shaan over the years".
Then she explained: "It's time for me to concentrate on my next five-year plan. I'm very excited. I want to freelance. As an actor I need to move out of my comfort zone.
"I'm also going to register for my Honours in Sociology. I might also go to film school in London. I love the thought of so many possibilities. I feel like I've been let loose in a candy store. The sky's the limit."
A Generations spokesperson said Thahira had indicated she wanted to finish her studies and go to London. They said there was no animosity.
Generations airs weekdays at 8pm on SABC1.