by Thinus Ferreira
A new M-Net telenovela entitled Champions, also produced by Tshedza Pictures, is replacing The River on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) from 5 February and will follow the story of a woman who runs the male-dominated soccer empire of the Soshanguve Giants football club.
Champions, also produced by Tshedza Pictures which made The River and described as a "story of passion, power and perseverance", will kick off on 5 February on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) at 19:00 with new episodes on weekdays in the timeslot.
"Champions uniquely embodies the spirit of South Africa, aiming to inspire and excite our audience. It's a celebration of ambition, positivity, and the resilience of our people,' says Phathushedzo Makwarela, executive producer.
"Tshedza Pictures is thrilled to collaborate again with Mzansi Magic and we eagerly anticipate the moment our viewers will join us on this incredible journey."
The Champions cast includes veteran talent like Sello
Maake ka-Ncube, Tumisho Masha, Kgomotso Christopher and Jo-anne Reyneke along with newcomers Rethabile Mohapi and Minkie Malatji.
In the male-dominated world of football, Sne Modise, portrayed by Jo-anne Reyneke, has to show resilience when she has to battle the storm caused by sudden changes in her father Washington's life.
Sne is thrown into a series of series of challenges, love, and betrayal while battling the intense
drama as the underdog. Yet she's determined to challenge the
gender norms and lead the Soshanguve Giants FC to success. Can Sne come out on top in an arena where the rules of the game are
constantly changing?
Here are the character bios of the main characters in Champions:
Washington Modise (Sello Maake ka-Ncube)
A former player-turned-entrepreneur, Washington breathed life into
his own football team Soshanguve Giants FC, steering it with a mix of shrewd
business sense and a deep love for the game. His story is a compelling mix of
ambition, challenge, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Lucinda Modise (Kgomotso Christopher)
Wife to Washington, her story is one of quiet strength, enduring
support, and the influential role of a partner in the whirlwind world of
success and power.
Philemon Modise (Tumisho Masha)
Long overshadowed by his brother Washington, he feels the world has yet to
acknowledge his true worth. His narrative is one of greed, sibling rivalry, and
the relentless pursuit of personal acclaim.
Zipho (Kwenzo Ngcobo)
Stands as a titan in
the space of talent management. Zipho's story is about navigating the intricate
web of professional success and personal integrity in a world where both are
constantly tested.
Ferrari (Thembinkosi Mthembu)
Once the crown jewel of
South African football, Ferrari now stands at a crossroads where his
illustrious career faces the threat of dimming.
Lebo Serite (Thato Dithebe)
His aspirations to conquer the grand football stadiums and lift
his family out of poverty are fuelled by a potent mix of talent, charisma, and
determination.