Last night’s episode marked the end of an eight-year journey for Skeem Saam’s most-loved actress Lesego Marakalla.

Her character, Rachel Kunutu/Maphuthuma, whose family and the Turfloop Police have been searching for after she disappeared without a trace. Her antics left her antagonist husband Marothi in jail, taking half of his money and pinning her sudden disappearance on him.

In the recent episode’s final scene, the actress is seen getting into a maxi taxi headed to the airport with her luggage. In the last shot, she winks at the camera – confirming the rumour that she’ll be leaving the show to focus on her studies.We are still struggling to come to terms with her exit from the show as she’s one of our faves, along with late actor Charles Maja who played Leshole’s father Big Boy Mabitsela. Maja also made what could be his final appearance this week.

After her last appearance, Marakalla took to her social media to write, “It’s been good, God has been good! Thank you all for your love and support… The messages, ka le bona. I really appreciate you guys.