Applications Now Open and Close 25 October for Government to Select New Board for Crippled NFVF

by Thinus Ferreira

Applications have opened for people to serve on the board of South Africa's rudderless National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), after the latest council of the beleaguered film body got fired in late-September - the second time in two years. 

Shadrack Bokaba was just appointed NFVF CEO - the 8th person in the chair in 3 years as the NFVF stumbles along without any governing body.

Applications to serve on the NFVF board close on 25 October, with an independent panel that will decide who the members of the NFVF's latest council will be. Members will be appointed for a period of 3 years.

People can't submit their own names, although they are technically entering themselves - somebody in South Africa's film and TV industry, stakeholders or the public must nominate and enter somebody's name.

South Africa's government department of sports, arts and culture and its minister, Gayton McKenzie, will make the appointments.

Nominated candidates should be knowledgeable and experienced in one of the following fields, ranging from film and video production, broadcasting and digital media, arts, culture and the creative industries, corporate governance, finance and accounting, legal and regulatory matters, marketing and communications, to fundraising, education and training, or research, policy development and public administration.

The NFVF failed to issue any press release to the media or public that nominations are now open and closing on 25 October, in order to bring the news under the broader industry and public's attention.

The NFVF council application requires a nomination letter containing the name and contact details of the nominee, as well as a CV of the nominee and their academic qualifications. A signed letter from the nominee accepting the nomination is also required, as well as three contactable references, and should be send to: NfvfNominations@dsac.gov.za

ALSO READ: NFVF Council Dissolved with Immediate Effect for a 2nd Time in 2 Years as Fired Board Members are Slammed Over 'Loss of Confidence' to Provide Governance for SA's Rudderless Film Agency

ALSO READ: Shadrack Bokaba Parachutes into NFVF CEO chair as 8th Person in the Position in 3 Years at SA's Rudderless and Boardless Film Agency

Total Video Measurement (TVM) to replace South Africa's TAMS TV ratings system from start of 2027

by Thinus Ferreira

South Africa's TV ratings system will switch from the Television Audience Measurement Survey (TAMS) to Total Video Measurement (TVM) on 1 January 2027 as the country's replaced currency for measuring video audiences.

According to the Broadcast Research Council of South Africa (BRC) that stopped publicly publishing basic TV ratings unlike what continues in other countries worldwide, TVM will replace TAMS to bring "linear television, time-shifted viewing, connected TV and online video into a single daily measurement system".

The BRC says that TV and online measurement will go live together with no "interim TV-only phase" and also no "back-trending against TAMS data".

Gary Whitaker, BRC CEO, says "The question is no longer whether we measure online video but rather how we measure the whole picture reliably, on one panel, under one rulebook".

"TVM does exactly that, and it does it in one move on 1 January 2027."

According to the BRC, TVM will provide two levels of reporting within the same dataset. Broadcaster Total TV will extend the current television currency to include connected TV viewing and broadcaster-owned content viewed across devices.

Total Video will add platform-level online viewing on personal devices, including broadcaster video-on-demand services, subscription and other streaming services, as well as certified social video.

The BRC says this methodology will allow the industry to "assess broadcaster audiences and the wider online video market using a common measurement framework".

TVM will be produced according to the BRC's Mandatory Calculation and Reporting Rules. 

Software suppliers that meet the BRC's certification requirements will be able to provide the data, allowing broadcasters, agencies and advertisers to continue working with their preferred technology partners.

The BRC will start to release real TVM test data from end-October 2026, and says it will be done "after broadcaster scrutiny has taken place", in order to give the industry two months to prepare for the transition.

Gary Whitaker says the "preparation period is intended to give the market practical experience rather than requiring businesses to work from technical specifications alone".

"Giving broadcasters, agencies and advertisers genuine test data more than two months before go-live means teams can retrain, recalibrate their systems and validate their outputs against real numbers well ahead of trading on the new currency."

The BRC says that "Broadcaster streaming on the big screen will be measured and credited to the relevant broadcaster if within the time-shift window, other viewing to broadcaster content and non-broadcaster platforms such as Netflix and YouTube will be reported at platform level"

According to the BRC, a further upgrade is planned for mid-2027 that will introduce programme and episode-level reporting for broadcaster digital platforms and that will use the same underlying measurement system rather than creating a new currency.

The BRC says "Rather than extend linear television measurement only for another measurement cycle and introduce online video at a later stage, the BRC has chosen a single transition to TVM".

"The BRC will remain responsible for the underlying research, panel, measurement systems, daily currency, reporting rules and software certification. Commercial services such as AdIntel, go-to-market services and buy- or sell-side trading tools will remain outside the BRC's role."

ALSO READ: Why South Africa's public TV ratings have been ripped away

ALSO READ: In South Africa TV ratings crisis looms as Nielsen announces market exit

ALSO READ: GfK to take over as South African TV ratings tabulator at Broadcast Research Council in wake of Nielsen's shock exit

Still in Cinemas Spider-Man Brand New Day Swings to Apple TV to Buy on Streaming with Rental Coming 17 November and Physical Media on 15 December

by Thinus Ferreira

A week late in actually telling the media, Sony and Disney's box office-breaking film Spider-Man: Brand New Day was added to Apple TV a week ago.

A press release today, 12 October from the PR company communicating on behalf of Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), said that Spider-Man: Brand New Day can now be bought on Apple's streaming service since 6 October.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day first broke box office records in South Africa and Southern Africa during its box office opening weekend, when it shot to a new record of R44 million in ticket sales during its opening weekend.

Then Spider-Man: Brand New Day broke another record for the South African and Southern African box office two weeks ago when it overtook the live action film version of The Lion King became the new, all-time highest-grossing film in the territory, with a cumulative ticket sales haul of over R125 million.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day - with the Tom Holland starrer still in cinemas - was added to Apple TV on 6 October to buy digitally as a coordinated worldwide release across territories worldwide, including South Africa.

From 17 November, Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be available for digital rental.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day has a physical media launch date of 15 December when it will become available to buy on 4K Ultra HD, standard Blu-ray and DVD, including a limited edition SteelBook, as well as a Collector's Edition box set.

ALSO READ: Spider-Man: Brand New Day Shoots to New South African Box Office Opening Weekend Record of R44 Million

ALSO READ: Brand New Southern African Box Office Record as Spider-Man: Brand New Day Overtakes The Lion King to Become Highest-grossing Film Ever in SA with R125 Million Haul

Kenyan Actress Nice Githinji Becomes East Africa's First Certified Intimacy Coordinator

by Thinus Ferreira

The Kenyan actress and director Nice Githinji has become East Africa's first certified intimacy coordinator.

According to the Kenya Film Commission, Nice Githinji's "milestone represents progress towards safer, more professional and respectful working environments across film and television, while setting a new benchmark for industry practice".

The KFC said "As Kenya continues to nurture a professional, inclusive and globally competitive film industry, achievements like this remind us of the importance of embracing new skills, standards and opportunities."

Nice Githinji trained under South African intimacy coordinator and director Sara Blecher, as well as the MultiChoice Talent Factory's (MTF) intimacy coordination programme in 2024.

Last year in an interview Nice Githinji said "Intimacy coordination is very new in the world, but it's even newer for Kenya. My hope is that sooner or later, it becomes the new normal because everyone's mind, body and soul has to be protected on set, whether cast or crew".

The role of an intimacy coordinator in the film industry is defined as a specialised movement designer, risk mediator and consent advocate.

The role functions similarly to a stunt coordinator - ensuring that scenes involving physical intimacy, nudity, semi-nudity or intense emotional vulnerability are safe, highly professional, and precisely choreographed.

In South Africa, the industry's understanding and implementation of the role are codified in the official South African Protocols for Working with Intimate Content in TV, Film, and Associated Media, which were jointly established by industry bodies like the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO) and the South African Guild of Actors (SAGA).

SABC1 Adds Just Travel SA Local Tourism AFP from 26 October Produced by Black Brain Pictures Fronted by Lungile Radu and Pearl Thusi

by Thinus Ferreira

SABC1 is adding a new local tourism series, Just Travel SA as an AFP, produced by Black Brain Pictures with Lungile Radu and Pearl Thusi as co-presenters.

The choice of Lungile Radu as a presenter for a sponsored TV show is odd, given that he is of course embroiled in major legal action in the Gauteng High Court over a R2.2 million production loan from Capitec to Parental Advisory Productions of which he is one of the directors, with Thomas Gumede.

SABC1 says Just Travel SA will "uncover remarkable destinations, local experiences and hidden gems across all nine provinces, with travel options designed for different budgets"

Just Travel SA will start on SABC1 on Monday 26 October at 18:00 for 9 half-hour episodes. Each episode will explore a different province, alongside a local insider. 

Each episode will show what's possible to do and experience with R1 050 per day, R1 250 per day, and a "luxury budget" of more than R1 250 per day.

In the Free State episode they will be joined by Mapaseka Koetle, by Clement Maosa in Limpopo and in KwaZulu-Natal by Sweet Guluva.

Just Travel SA is yet another advertiser-funded programme (AFP) on the SABC, and is being paid for by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and the Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA) organisation.

Thulisile Nhlapo, SABC1 acting channel head, says "For SABC1, Just Travel SA offers viewers an opportunity to reconnect with South Africa through authentic storytelling, local discovery and accessible travel inspiration".

"By showcasing the country across a range of price points, the series encourages audiences to look closer to home and recognise that adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences can be found in every province."

eNCA Silent Retrenchments: Former eMedia Busy 'Mall Parking Lot on Payday' Now Down to Just a Few Cars as Bosses Say 'AI Can Replace Everyone on the Floor'

by Thinus Ferreira

Already low morale continues to crater inside eMedia's eNCA (DStv 403) amidst an ongoing massive retrenchment process to get rid of hundreds of workers at the TV news channel before South Africa's upcoming local elections on 4 November.

In August, news leaked that eNCA plans to get rid of 171 out of its 309 staffers - something that left workers seething with anger.

eMedia's massive retrenchment drive comes just after eMedia CEO Khalik Sherrif jetted off to the United States along with board members, as a group of more than 20 people, to be entertained and enjoy the 2026 FIFA Soccer World Cup with expensive tickets, flights, and accommodation to treat potential clients and ad buyers who went along on the all-expenses-paid trip.

Workers are furious and upset about what they see as a waste of money by the big bosses with big salaries, while they "at the bottom of the food pyramid" have to pay the price.

eMedia staffers are also angry and talking openly among themselves about eMedia's so-called "white elephant": the multi-million rand VRtuosus virtual studio that eMedia built and opened in Johannesburg in March.

Apparently, VRtuosus has not performed as expected and is being underutilised, according to staffers, with little to no appetite from the wider industry.

When eMedia was asked about all of this, spokesperson Lynne Adams said via, email: "As a matter of principle, eMedia does not comment publicly, through the media, on its internal business operations, confidential employee matters, or internal processes."

While eMedia isn't talking, eMedia staffers are.

eNCA and eMdia staffers talking about the retrenchment process give anecdotal evidence of how the eMedia parking lot that "used to be worse than a mall parking lot on payday where overspill had to park across the road with the OB vans" is now down to as few as two cars on some days.

"e.tv's retrenchments have gone far beyond what they initially reported," says a source, noting that "Johannesburg bosses are flying in to Cape Town with AI business partners making insensitive comments in front of staff, saying 'AI can replace everyone on the floor'."

Insiders also tell me that staffers are talking among each other that eMedia CEO, Khalik Sherrif, is apparently "not allowed to speak to staff or acknowledge them while the retrenchment process is happening".

A source says radio station "YFM is becoming collateral damage to the mess at the top too, where most of their sales complement have resigned and they can't fill positions."

Recently, a source quipped: They're retrenching people from the creative department in Cape Town today" - something which is being referred to as "silent retrenchments".

"They've done libraries. Transfers. Now creative."

ALSO READ: eMedia: Retrenchment Looming for Over Half - 171 Out of 309 - Workers at eNCA, e.tv's News and eNuus after CEO Khalik Sherrif's Overseas Trip

Top Billing Presenter Search 2026 Narrows Field to Top 5 Including Sports Scientist and Former Football Player

by Thinus Ferreira

The revived Top Billing lifestyle magazine show on SABC3 has announced the top 5 finalists in its social media Top Billing Presenter Search 2026 which includes a sports scientist and a former football player.

One of the 5 will join the weekly lifestyle show as a new presenter.

Homba Mazaleni, originally from Dutywa in the Eastern Cape is described as a presenter, content creator and qualified biokineticist whose passion for sport, wellness and people.

She has three degrees behind her and a place in the Miss South Africa 2023 Top 5.

Cardova Productions says "Homba has proven that determination, authenticity and hard work can open extraordinary doors".

"Her journey from rural beginnings to the world of sports media is a testament to her resilience and ambition. Combining scientific knowledge with infectious energy, natural confidence and a love for adventure, Homba brings a fresh perspective to lifestyle storytelling."

Talitha Bothma is a"growth strategist", entrepreneur, speaker and founder of Worth in Motion, an organisation dedicated to "empowering individuals to recognise their value and unlock opportunities".

Cardova Productions says "Growing up in rural South Africa, overcoming profound personal loss and rebuilding her life following a serious medical condition that affected her hearing and vision, Talitha has transformed adversity into a powerful sense of purpose".

"With experience spanning technology, fashion, media and business development across Africa, she brings a unique combination of sophistication, empathy and intellectual curiosity."

Karen Mthethwa, raised in Soweto, is a broadcaster, radio personality and live-event presenter.

She rose through the broadcasting ranks after winning YFM's presenter search in 2024.

Cardova Productions says "From hosting late-night radio to securing her own weekday show, The Glow Up, her career has been driven by persistence, passion and a natural ability to connect with audiences".

"A mother of two, Karen is passionate about representation and showing young women that their backgrounds do not define their futures. With her vibrant personality, exceptional communication skills and passion for entertainment, fashion and culture, Karen is ready to bring her distinctive energy to the Top Billing stage."

Nehemiah Tjatji is a TV presenter, creative producer, director and entrepreneur whose career has taken him both in front of and behind the camera.

Cardova Productions says "Having lost his mother at a young age, Nehemiah found comfort and purpose in the performing arts".

"His passion for storytelling took him from community radio to television, acting, directing and producing."

"His experience includes presenting the SABC1 reality competition series Verified, alongside extensive work in entertainment and television production."

"With a charismatic personality, an infectious love for people and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry, Nehemiah brings experience, versatility and an authentic passion for sharing remarkable stories."

Ross Marshall is a presenter, actor, model, creative director and youth mentor.

He is a former semi-professional footballer and pursued a career in sport before discovering a new calling in the performing arts and storytelling.

"Following the loss of his father in 2023, Ross has remained committed to honouring his family's belief in him by pursuing his dreams and inspiring others to do the same," Cardova Productions says.

"Through his work as a presenter, corporate MC, podcast host and founder of FortifiedZa, Ross has built a career focused on leadership, entrepreneurship and empowering the next generation. His natural warmth, creative energy and passion for human connection bring a fresh dimension to the Top Billing Presenter Search."

Cardova says the 5 finalists "bring different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, but share one important quality: a passion for people and the stories that make life extraordinary".

eNCA Adds The Voting Booth on Sundays for Pre-coverage of South Africa's Upcoming Local Elections

by Thinus Ferreira

eMedia's eNCA (DStv 403) TV news channel is adding The Voting Booth as a limited series, weekly current affairs programme on Sundays at 11:00 for pre-coverage of South Africa's upcoming local elections on 4 November.

Naledi Moleo is the anchor of The Voting Booth, with the show that looks at polling data and research, combined with pre-reporting about issues supposedly driving voters' decisions.

The Voting Booth uses information supplied by MarkData that surveyed 6 113 registered voters in the cities of Cape Town, Ekurhuleni, eThekwini, Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Bay and Tshwane.

The research was conducted between 10 and 14 August, through interviews that were done in-person and telephonically.

eMedia never bothered to issue any press statement to the media, which is the industry norm, when Nisa Allie returned to the company in July, this time as managing director of eNCA, but is now quoting her for the first time in a prepared quote, in a press release sent out about The Voting Booth. 

"eNCA remains resolute in its commitment to provide audiences with the information they need to make informed decisions at the polls," Nisa Allie is quoted.

"The data, combined with balanced and fair reporting, provides a holistic view of voter sentiment and the realities communities face on the ground."

ALSO READ: eMedia: Retrenchment Looming for Over Half - 171 Out of 309 - Workers at eNCA, e.tv's News and eNuus after CEO Khalik Sherrif's Overseas Trip

Hisense SA Adds SportsCast as a FAST-channel to its VIDAA Line-up

by Thinus Ferreira

While Samsung has failed to launch its built-in FAST (Free-Ad Supporting Streaming TV) platform, Samsung TV Plus in South Africa, which is a very bad and a massive drawback for its Smart TVs sold locally, rival Hisense has a great existing FAST service that continues to grow and has now added SportsCast Africa as a sports channel.

Samsung Smart TVs in South Africa don't have its Samsung TV Plus FAST service, but Hisense South Africa has VIDAA that continues to expand and has now added SportsCast Africa on channel 5208.

SportsCast Africa is a 24/7 linear sports TV channel for sub-Saharan audiences with continental and global sports news, highlights and live events.

It is distributed free of charge across FAST platforms and combines a fixed daily schedule of recurring sports strips with live event coverage.

SportsCast Africa, operated by Broadsmart, is already available and accessible on the South African public broadcaster's SABC+ platform as its own streaming feed, and is now on Hisense TVs too.

SportsCast Africa's schedule covers African and international football, motorsport, basketball, rugby, tennis and multi-sport action.

It is aggregated within daily shows like Football Daily, Soccer Highlights and SportsWrap for football fans, Pole Position for motorsport, Slam Dunk for basketball and Cross Court for tennis. Some live matches are also shown from time to time.

"Partnering with Hisense, a market leader in the region and a brand that takes a genuinely innovative approach to working with content providers, puts SportsCast Africa where African sports fans already are," says Yokow Quansah, managing director at Broadsmart.

"Our promise is simple: great sport, whenever and wherever you want it, free and with nothing to install. This is a meaningful step in building a genuinely free sports service for African viewers."

Luna Nortje, Hisense SA deputy general manager, says customers who support Hisense "can enjoy the sport they love without paying extra for it".