by Thinus Ferreira
M-Net has cancelled the Gomora telenovela on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) following an ongoing decrease in DStv subscribers watching the Seriti Films produced show, with a shortened fourth season which will be its last without stars Siphesihle Ndaba and Katlego Danke.
M-Net confirms that it has pulled the plug on Gomora which will now end after a shortened fourth season that will start on 24 April and end on 20 October 2023.
M-Net says it is "committed to finding a suitable alternative to Gomora which will be announced in due course".
M-Net notes in a statement that it "maintains a fruitful working relationship
with Seriti Films" but that it has to "be responsive to their changing
needs and preferences" - very likely a reference to the sliding TV ratings of Gomora which is far off from the number of DStv subscribers who tuned in when it made its debut on 30 March 2020.
Shirley Adonisi, M-Net director of local entertainment channels, says "This means that we have to bid farewell to beloved shows
like Gomora, but we are
excited to bring you new, fresh and exciting content".
"It's been an incredible three years
since Gomora first aired
on Mzansi Magic," says Shirley Adonisi. "The show has captivated audiences across the
country and we are proud to be part of its legacy. We thank the cast and crew
of Gomora for their
incredible work and dedication."
Leanne Khumalo, executive producer, says that "Gomora has always been a show that
transcended the screen. These characters and stories will live in the hearts
and homes of many people for years to come. A truly memorable show which we
will look back on with a sense of fulfilment, knowing we brought light to these
important stories".
"Gomora has been an incredible journey, paved
with many special milestones and memories. When we started this show, we were
on the brink of lockdown. The crew and cast formed a special bond during this
time. Gomora grew into a family and this power dynamic was shared and
experienced on screen".
According to Mzansi Magic, the exit of actors Siphesihle Ndaba and Katlego Danke who have portrayed Mazet and Thathi since the start of the series, will see the "young people of Gomora spiral out of control".
"For its fourth and final season, fans of the
telenovela can expect intense action and an emotional rollercoaster of a
season. The young people of Gomora spiral out of control, from self-inflicted
pain, and generational pain."
"Also, this is as Sonto's (Connie Chiume)
world is rocked and she grapples with her emotions post the killing. The
absence of Mazet (Siphesihle Ndaba) and Thathi (Katlego Danke) turns the Molefe
household upside down throughout the season and Sonto moves from one desperate
act to even more dangerous decisions."
"At the Zondo household, after surviving the
accident, Sibongile (Nandipha Khubone) gave birth to her and Scara's (Wonder
Ndlovu) baby. Sibongile, unsure whether she can care for her child, makes a
premature decision that will have long-term consequences. But as Zodwa (Sannah
Mchunu) plans her and Bongani's (Thulani Mtshweni) big day, the joyful, long
overdue occasion may just be what the family needs to finally come together."
"Meanwhile, Nkosinathi (Fezile Makhanya)
finds himself in one unfortunate financial situation after another at Zodwa and
Bongani's wedding, a moment of weakness will either make or break his
relationship with Gladys (Thembi Seete)."
