e.tv Dumps More Content as Isitha: The Enemy is Canned

by Thinus Ferreira

eMedia's e.tv continues dumping content and has now also cancelled Isitha: The Enemy, which will end on 23 April 2027 after executives decided the red-letter channel is done with the Black Brain Pictures-produced show after three years.

The canning of the Roodepoort-filmed series comes after e.tv basically scrapped its entire primetime line-up, leaving the Black Brain Pictures drama as the last piece of its "legacy" programming.

Isitha: The Enemy started as a spin-off out of the experimental and risque adult telenovela The Black Door that only lasted a single season's 260 episodes and was a step too far for e.tv audiences.

Mandla N, Black Brain Pictures co-founder and executive producer, says "As we approach this final chapter, we want to leave viewers with the same spirit that has defined the show from the beginning - bold storytelling, unexpected twists and characters who refuse to be forgotten".

"There are still a lot of stories left to tell before we say goodbye, and audiences can expect the final stretch to be every bit as dramatic, emotional and unpredictable as the journey that brought us here."

Helga Palmer, eMedia's head of content development and strategy, says Isitha: The Enemy was "an important part of e.tv's storytelling journey".

"As a spinoff of The Black Door, to becoming a powerful story in its own right, the series has entertained audiences, introduced memorable characters and demonstrated the strength of South African storytelling," she says.

"As we prepare to close this chapter, we are also looking ahead with excitement. e.tv is entering a new wave of drama, bringing compelling stories, with a healthy mix of accomplished and new talent to our audiences."

Actor Webster 'Neo' Kutoane dead at 39

by Thinus Ferreira

South African actor Webster "Neo" Kutoane, known for his role as Poni-Poni in the e.tv telenovela Isitha: The Enemy died on Sunday 22 February. He was 39.

The cause of Webster Kutoane's death is not yet known. He is survived by his wife, Malerato Kutoane Motaung, and their son, Ntando.

"We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of our cherished cast members, Webster 'Neo' Kuotane, who brought the memorable character of Poni-Poni to life on Isitha: The Enemy," says production company Black Brain Pictures that produces the show for e.tv.

"Through his portrayal of Poni-Poni, he delivered a performance that resonated strongly with audiences across South Africa. His talent, dedication, and ability to embody complex emotion made him a valued member of the Isitha: The Enemy family and a familiar face in homes nationwide."

There's been no statement from e.tv regarding Webster Kutoane.

Mandla N, Black Brain Pictures executive producer, said "The loss of a creative voice is something our entire industry feels deeply".

"This moment is not just about one individual. It reflects the broader realities many of us in the industry are facing right now. Behind every production, every show and every piece of work are people carrying immense emotional, financial and personal pressures."

"We have lost a creative genius and the impact reaches far beyond the work itself. In times like this, we are reminded that creativity comes from human beings who need support, stability and care, not just deadlines and deliverables."

"Mental health must be a central conversation in our industry, not an afterthought. For many freelancers, creatives and producers, the periods between projects bring uncertainty, financial strain and isolation."

"Learning how to navigate downtime, manage finances sustainably and maintain emotional well-being is essential, not only for individuals, but also for the future health of our sector as a whole. RIP to our dear brother."

"We hope this moment encourages deeper reflection and more meaningful conversations about how we support one another. The creative industry thrives on talent, but it survives on community, compassion, and a recognition that people must come first."

"Today, we mourn. But we also stand together in support of every creative navigating the challenges behind the scenes."

After denying it e.tv now confirms it has cancelled sex-filled telenovela The Black Door as Black Brain Productions spin out some characters to resurface in new show Isitha The Enemy.

by Thinus Ferreira

After denying it's happening e.tv has cancelled The Black Door after just a year on air, with the sex-filled telenovela from Black Brain Pictures axed and getting replaced by another telenovela from the same production company.

After e.tv and the producers said they plan to keep The Black Door on-air for multiple seasons shortly after the show's debut, the production has been axed although e.tv publicity a month ago still denied that it's happening.

The Black Door producers were quickly forced to course correct on e.tv orders after the show made its debut in April 2022 and had to tone down several of the sex-filled risque aspects of the show following negative reaction from viewers. 

The show however continued production, although questions were raised later in 2022 on whether The Black Door would get more seasons. 

On 6 April TVwithThinus asked e.tv whether The Black Door has been cancelled. e.tv publicist Siyabonga Mposula responded and said "the show continues but with a story that is far more family-accommodating".

A month later, on 4 May, e.tv publicist Karabo Nkabinde in a press release suddenly confirmed that The Black Door has been cancelled and is getting replaced by a "new primetime family-orientated" telenovela Isitha - The Enemy. 

Isitha - The Enemy will take a section of The Black Door's already established characters and create a new telenovela out of the Sokhulu family and the "struggles to keep their family together in the face of adversity as new challenges and new rivals come onto the scene".

"We are committed to bringing the best South African local content to our viewers and we have to remain receptive to their changing needs and preferences," says Helga Palmer, eMedia head of local programming about cancelling The Black Door and replacing it with Isitha - The Enemy.

"With this in mind, we are excited to usher in the spin-off series, Isitha – The Enemy.  This story proves to be like no other, with a big focus on family feuds, drama and intrigue, peppered with some comedic elements."

Mpumelelo Nhlapo, executive producer at Black Brain Pictures, in a prepared statement says "We strategically intended for The Black Door to run for one year".

"Our goal was to break new ground and to push the boundaries of South African television. The greater vision has always been to tell the story of the Sokhulu family as a multi-chapter series that allows us to explore different themes in dynamic and interesting ways."

Show creator Mandla N, creative director at Black Brain Pictures, says "We can't wait for viewers to see how this new chapter delves deeper into the world of the Sokhulus as we explore new characters, new conflicts, and new challenges that will test their strength and resilience".

According to e.tv, Isitha - The Enemy will "pick up from a royal homestead in eSwatini".

"Here, we find out what happened to Chuma Sokhulu who was presumed dead in The Black Door chapter of the Sokhulu story. It promises to be a gripping drama with captivating storylines and exciting performances. The stunning visuals coupled with unexpected twists and turns as the story unfolds, will take viewers on a thrill ride that will keep them on the edge of their seats".

The cast of Isitha - The Enemy will include Sipho Ndlovu, Khanyisani Khwesa and Dawn Thandeka with Thobani Nzuza reprising his role along with some other actors from The Black Door.