SABC1 doesn't have money for a second season of
The X Factor South Africa this year, and says the reality talent show might be back in 2016 only.
SABC1 says in a statement that the public broadcaster's channel took "a business decision" that the Rapid Blue produced show won't be back for a new season this year. Fiscal reasons prompting SABC1 to "re-assess our broadcasting schedule".
"SABC is leaving The X Factor SA second season out of its broadcast schedule for this year. This follows the channel's re-assessment of its broadcasting plans for the fiscal year," says
Maijang Mpherwane, SABC1 channel head in a statement.
"We remain proud of what The X Factor South Africa achieved in its first run," says Maijang Mpherwane.
"To be sure, The X Factor SA is still of value to the channel. However we have had to re-assess our broadcast schedule priorities and take a business decision not to include The X Factor South Africa in our schedule this year".
"SABC1 currently has a number of proudly locally produced reality offerings in the likes of The Sing SA [which ended], and the first of its kind and SA's original search in search of SA's DJ and music producer sensation, 1's & 2's to which they respectively still draw quite significant dependable crowds," says Maijang Mpherwane.
The SABC's chief operating officer (COO)
Hlaudi Motsoeneng on Monday reiterated that the SABC should be applauded for its "new" RFP (request for proposals) book asking for various TV productions worth R600 million, although TV production companies told
TV with Thinus that they've not heard from the SABC.
"I've sent four proposals - the oldest in January - and I've not had any feedback. Not even a letter of regret. A month ago I again contacted the SABC and they said they can't give feedback before the process isn't completed and verified by the compliance and regulation department."
"I can't understand how the tender process can take so long. Not one of the quotes I had to request for proposals are valid anymore, so all my budgets are worthless."
An executive at another production company said the SABC is "still stringing us along".
