Connie Ferguson to launch the Ferguson Foundation in August dedicated to late husband-producer Shona with a film school for students to build South Africa's film industry.

by Thinus Ferreira

Connie Ferguson will officially launch her and her late husband Shona's Ferguson Foundation in August which will be a new South African film school to help disadvantaged students to enter the film and TV industry as producers as well as in front of the cameras as actors.

The Fergusons' plan to launch their Ferguson Foundation was postponed following the unexpected death of Shona (47) in late July a year ago.

Under their Ferguson Films banner launched in 2010, the couple produced series like Rockville, iGazi, The Throne, The Herd, The Imposter and The Queen for M-Net's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) channel and Kings of Joburg for Netflix South Africa.

Now the Ferguson Foundation will be officially launched with a gala dinner on Friday evening 5 August, in memory of co-founder Shona, at The Venue at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg where the actress, businesswoman and producer will dedicate the couple's philanthropic endeavour to her late husband.

"The official launch of the Ferguson Foundation is on the way, thank you for your patience and support in the build-up to the big day and all the activities we have been undertaking," Connie says in a statement, with the Ferguson Films owner noting that it marks "new beginnings".

"The Ferguson Foundation gala launch, in loving memory of our co-founder Shona Ferguson, will be held on Friday 5 August 2022. I am looking forward to having you join us in the fruition of this vision and celebration of the life of a true visionary of empowerment and upliftment."

The aim of the Ferguson Foundation is to help "create tomorrow's dreams today by promoting young entrepreneurs, funding the education of disadvantaged youth, and nurturing film enthusiasts".

"We also aim to create balanced and equal opportunities for women who have been dealt a disadvantage in life."

Similar to the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), beneficiaries will get to attend two annual mentorship workshops with Ferguson Films, with students - through internships - who will also get work experience and networking opportunities alongside film and TV professionals. 

At the same time, the foundation says it also aims to sponsor the university fees of five children from disadvantaged families who will be funded throughout their undergraduate programmes until they graduate.

The vision of the Ferguson film school is to equip students "with the tools they need to know about film production and functions related to film, with the aim of building future film industry leaders, producers and actors".

In regards to female empowerment, the Ferguson Foundation will support selected women around Southern Africa living with HIV/Aids, struggling with the effects of being widowed, and the consequences of the recent Covid-19 pandemic to "provide them with funding for their start-up businesses, and assist them in elevating their skills and thus creating sustenance".

Shona Ferguson: Private funeral this Wednesday for the filmmaker and memorial service at a later date.

by Thinus Ferreira

The filmmaker and actor Shona Ferguson (47) who died on Friday afternoon from Covid-19 complications will be laid to rest in a private funeral service this Wednesday, his family said in a statement on Tuesday, with a date for the memorial service that might be public, that will be announced later.

Shona Ferguson, who was married to co-producer and actress Connie Ferguson and who owned the production company Ferguson Films, died on Friday afternoon at the Milpark private hospital in Johannesburg after he was admitted a week ago suffering from chest pains and struggling to breathe.

Ferguson Films produced several series for MultiChoice and M-Net's DStv channels like Mzansi Magic and 1Magic (DStv 103) including The Queen, The Throne, Igazi, The Herd, The River and The Imposter, and Unmarried and Step Up to a Start-Up on which he was an executive producer.

Shona Ferguson received the Golden Horn award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in the Best Actor in a TV soap category, and won another one for Best Achievement by a Lead Actor in a made-for-TV movie.

The 6-episode drama series Kings of Joburg was produced for Netflix by Ferguson Films in 2020.

Ferguson Films recently announced plans to open The Ferguson Film School for aspiring filmmakers.

"The Ferguson family would like to confirm that the late Shona Ferguson will be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended only by family members on Wednesday 4 August 2022," Ferguson films and family spokesperson Thato Matuka said in a statement on Tuesday morning.

"Details of a memorial service will be communicated at a later stage once all the necessary arrangements have been finalised. We would like to thank our friends and the public at large for the kind words of comfort during this difficult period."

ALSO READ: CORONAVIRUS. Ferguson Films owner, producer and actor Shona Ferguson (47) has died from Covid-19 complications.

CORONAVIRUS. Ferguson Films owner, producer and actor Shona Ferguson (47) has died from Covid-19 complications.

by Thinus Ferreira

The filmmaker, producer, actor and owner of Ferguson Films in South Africa, Shona Ferguson, has reportedly died from Covid-19 coronavirus complications. He was 47.

See INDUSTRY REACTION lower down in the article.

Shona Ferguson, who was married to co-producer and actress Connie Ferguson, died on Friday afternoon at the Milpark private hospital in Johannesburg after he was admitted a week ago suffering from chest pains and struggling to breathe.

Sunday World reported that Shona Ferguson died on Friday afternoon, citing uncited sources, after he was in ICU.

This report couldn't independently be verified by other sources that TVwithThinus called, messaged and asked for several hours on Friday, hence the lack of any other reporting whilst seeking confirmation of the single-source story.

On Friday afternoon News24 cited Conrad Mwanza, a Ferguson Foundation spokesperson, confirmed the news of the death of Shona Ferguson.

"Shona Ferguson passed away at noon today and all the family is asking for at the moment is just to mourn in private," Conrad Mwanza said. 

He said that Shona Ferguson died from Covid-19 related complications.

In a statement issued later on Friday afternoon by the Ferguson Foundation, the Ferguson family said that Shona Ferguson died from Covid-19 related complications.

"It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Shona Ferguson. He passed away at noon today (Friday, 30 July 2021). Shona Ferguson’s untimely passing was due to Covid-19 related complications, and not a heart operation as reported in the media. We ask that you give the family time to process this painful loss and respect their space during this time."

Born as Aaron Arthur Ferguson in Botswana on 30 April 1974, he started his entertainment career in Lesotho as a club DJ at The Palace Hotel Night Club in 1992. 

After moving back to Botswana his focus shifted to the corporate world and he ended up in the IT business after which he got a role and started his acting career in SABC1's Generations, produced by Mfundi Vundla.

In 2006 he joined SABC2's Muvhango in the role of Dr Leabua and went on to portray the role of Itumeleng on The Wild on M-Net (DStv 101) and also appeared in SABC3's Isidingo, as well as Scandal! on e.tv.

Along with Connie Ferguson they started Ferguson Films and appeared together on screen in their first locally-produced series Rockville on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161). 

The couple has two daughter, Alicia Angel Ferguson and Lesedi, as well as a grandson Rori.

Connie Ferguson on Saturday night on her Instagram account wrote: "This day, 20 years ago (31 July 2001), was the day God brought you into my life, and we haven't looked back since!"

"Ours is a once in a lifetime kind of love. We joked about how we were going to be in our old age. How we would take turns supporting each other and being strong for each other. The irony is we have already been doing that for the past 20 years!"

"Oh how God has loved me to give me you! We were already planning our 20th wedding anniversary in November, assuming that we had time. You and I were joined at the hip, now I feel completely off balance, incomplete, without my other half! My soulmate!"

His daughter Alicia Angel Ferguson wrote on Instagram: "Words can not express how I'm feeling right now. My worst fear became a reality. You fought your fight dad, and I'm so proud of you for making it this far".

"You've not only touched our lives as your family, but you've touched many others as well. You've left a legacy behind that I will carry on, as I did make this promise when I was little to you. Thank you for everything that you've done for me my doppelgänger."

"You made a promise to me that you'll always be there when I need you, so I believe you will always be there even in spirit. I'm going to miss being your personal photographer. I'm going to miss tickling your feet and you shouting at me for it. I'm going to miss smelling your perfume around the house."

"I'm going to miss a lot of things, but most importantly, your hugs. You gave the best hugs on this earth Fa, and I cherish each hug you've given me. I know you are protecting us from up there in heaven. I miss you and words can not express how much I love you Fa. Rest In Peace My Twin."

Shona Ferguson also made an appearance in 2014's The Gift, another series produced by Ferguson Films. 

Other series from Ferguson Films produced for MultiChoice and M-Net's DStv channels like Mzansi Magic and 1Magic (DStv 103) included The Queen, The Throne, Igazi, The Herd, The River and The Imposter, and Unmarried and Step Up to a Start-Up on which he was an executive producer.

Shona Ferguson received the Golden Horn award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in the Best Actor in a TV soap category, and won another one for Best Achievement by a Lead Actor in a made-for-TV movie.

The 6-episode drama series Kings of Joburg was produced for Netflix by Ferguson Films in 2020.

Ferguson Films recently announced plans to open The Ferguson Film School for aspiring filmmakers.

In June this year Shona Ferguson shared on social media how he also went to Hollywood looking for fame and a career, as well as many doors in South Africa's TV and film industry that were shut in his face - and that he was so poor once that he couldn't afford toothpaste.

"An agent told me it wasn’t going to be easy to get me jobs because I didn't have the right “look”. A veteran actor, loved and respected by millions told me I am not memorable and so did a lot of producers. Many actors criticized me and made bets I would never make it in this industry," Shona Ferguson said.

"I've given most of these folks, agents and naysayers work opportunities regardless. Some are on my payroll and some would rather starve than work for me and that's okay. I'm not for everyone and not everyone is for me."

"There was a time in my life I couldn't afford toothpaste and I brushed my teeth with sunlight bar soap. Had bogobe le cabbage for years because I couldn't afford meat. We were so broke we couldn't afford paraffin for the lamps. We didn't have much but God was with us."

INDUSTRY REACTION:

MultiChoice and M-Net in a statement in response to a media enquiry on Friday afternoon told TVwitThinus that "M-Net is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of actor, film producer and philanthropist, Shona Ferguson".

"Together with his wife Connie Ferguson, he founded Ferguson Films, and they both starred in the production company’s M-Net first series, Rockville, in 2013."

"This was followed by other successful productions, such as The Throne and The Queen, in which Shona played the role of Jerry Maake. His latest appearance was on Rockville Season 5, which aired on Mzansi Magic in June 2021, where he took on the role of JB."

"Shona previously starred in a number of popular local TV series, including Generations, Muvhango and M-Net's The Wild. Recently, Shona and his wife Connie launched the Ferguson Foundation, an independent programme dedicated to supporting and empowering disadvantaged individuals in navigating the film industry."

Nomsa Philiso, director of local entertainment channels at M-Net, says "Shona has left an indelible mark on the South African television and production industry. He will be greatly missed by the M-Net family and his fans."

"M-Net extends its heartfelt condolences to the Ferguson family and Shona’s friends and colleagues. May his loved ones find strength and peace during this difficult time."

Netflix South Africa, where Shona Ferguson produced Kings of Joburg, says "We are saddened to hear the news of the passing of Shona Fergurson. As a fixture in the entertainment industry and a hero of black stories he will be missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Once a King, always a King".

Roberta Durrant of Penguin Films in a statement says, "It is with great shock and sadness that we have learnt today of the passing of Shonda Ferguson. We wish Connie and other members of his family and close friends deep condolences and prayers over this time of loss".

The SABC in a statement said that it is "deeply saddened by the passing of Shona Ferguson "and sends heartfelt condolences to the Ferguson family, his colleagues and his friends". 

Merlin Naicker, SABC group executive of SABC video entertainment, says "The industry has lost a great filmmaker and actor. He has left an indelible mark and his work will remain part of the South African film and television's rich archives, and will serve as a great well of knowledge for aspiring filmmakers and actors".

Duma Ndlovu, executive producer at the Word of Mouth Pictures production company, in a statement says "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ferguson family and fans during this difficult time, we are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear brother",

"We have lost a dedicated contributor in the film and television industry, who has been doing remarkable work. We remember him for his unmistakable dedication and passion."

M-Net revives Rockville for a 5th season on Mzansi Magic after DStv subscribers 'showed that there is still a longing' for the Ferguson Films drama series.

by Thinus Ferreira

M-Net has decided to revive the Rockville drama series after five years with a new 5th season of the Ferguson Films series that is set to return to Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) in 2021 promising a refreshed and expanded story with new actors joining some of the established characters.

"I can confirm that Rockville is returning. For now, we are still sorting out the contractual agreements," Philly Kubheka, the head of publicity at Mzansi Magic, tells TVwithThinus.  

Rockville executive produced by Connie and Shona Ferguson and who also both had on-screen roles, launched in May 2013 on Mzansi Magic and ran for 4 seasons until 2016, contrasting the worlds of Johannesburg's glitzy northern suburbs and the Bogatsus family, with the streets of Soweto where the working class Mabasos family lives.

Rockville was the first project from Ferguson Films and the first executive producing TV vehicle for the Ferguson showrunners pair, in addition to being the first drama series for Mzansi Magic.

Although Rockville was never officially cancelled, although ratings dipped over time, it was pushed from the Mzansi Magic schedule in favour of other newer projects over the past decade from Ferguson Films like iGazi, The Gift, The Throne, The Herd, The Queen and The Imposter. In 2020 they produced the drama series Kings of Joburg for Netflix.

About why Rockville is being revived, Philly Kubheka says that DStv subscribers "showed that there is still a longing for Rockville. That is precisely why we are bringing back this local content on our screens".

Filming on the new 5th season has started although some Rockville contractual agreements are still being sorted out. Several new faces are expected to join some of the actors who will be returning to familiar roles for an expanded new storyline.

"We’re looking forward to welcoming the squad that started it all back and introducing new and exciting characters and talent. More details about the cast of Rockville season 5 will be announced," says Connie Ferguson.

Ferguson Films responds after Vatiswa Ndara's open letter: Says the production company doesn't get money for repeats or licensing deals and that 'we're pretty much in the same boat as the artist'.

Following a scathing open letter by actress Vatiswa Ndara revealing alleged worker exploitation by Ferguson Films and "contributing to a rotten system" where she used to appear in two seasons of its iGazi produced drama series for MultiChoice's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) channel, Ferguson Films now says her allegations "paints a false picture".

Ferguson Films said that the production company "does not reap the financial benefits through repeat broadcasts, licensing deals and repackaging of the show" and that Ferguson Films is "pretty much in the same boat as the artist".

On Wednesday Ferguson Films, owned and managed by the actor-producer couple Connie and Shona Ferguson, released a statement through their attorney Brendan de Kooker, saying that "As actors ourselves and producers we are aware of the challenges facing the entertainment industry".

"We support 100% a need for the industry to be regulated and for the Performance Protection Amendment Bill to be signed sooner rather than later. With that said, the allegations made by various actors do not reflect the true position of the industry and paints a false picture, that may mislead the public."

"We attempted to negotiate with the actress and her agent in good faith and within the scope of the applicable production agreement, however the agent subsequently recused himself from the negotiations," Ferguson Films said.

"Thereafter we dealt with her manager.  They made it very clear that Vatiswa Ndara would not accept anything less than R700 000 for the 5-week shoot. She absolutely had every right to decline our offer, which she did, and we on the other hand as we could not meet her financial demand, due to contractual restraints, had every right to move on amicably, which we tried to do."

Ferguson Films said that "Just like actors the production company is not guaranteed work, whether the show is performing or not. We do not own the shows we produce under commission, and therefore have no right or say in what happens with shows post final delivery to the broadcaster."

Ferguson Films was not the production company in question in relation to the sad passing of Vatiswa Ndara's mother and her having to resume work shortly after. Conveniently, Vatiswa Ndara neglects to mention this fact therefore insinuating it was Ferguson Films."

"Shona and Connie Ferguson have other business interests apart from their production company and do not owe anyone an explanation as to how they manage their finances and lifestyle. The jab from Vatiswa Ndara is petty, unnecessary and uncalled for."

"Producers are held 100% accountable by the broadcaster as to how a production budget is utilized. It needs to be clear that these funds do not belong to the producer."

"The producer is merely a middleman between broadcaster, artist and crew. The producer is held accountable for every single line item on the production budget. What is due to the producer is the production markup at the end of the production and on final delivery."

The allegations towards Ferguson Films are consequently misguided, misdirected and misleading and can be seen as a ploy to defame and tarnish our name and reputation."

"There have been other slanderous and false allegations made by Dieketseng Mphuti [an actress who appeared on The Throne produced by Ferguson Films] and Katlego Malele [a crew member who worked on The Throne] which are being addressed separately by our legal team."

"Ferguson Films prides itself in producing quality shows, providing much needed employment to new and old talent and contributing to the growth of the industry. We will remain steadfast in our endeavour to treat everyone who works with us fairly and with the utmost respect".


ALSO READ: Actress Vatiswa Ndara quits Mzansi Magic's iGazi and slams Ferguson Films over alleged exploitation and 'contributing to a rotten system'; says artists are not valued and calls for bigger industry practice oversight.

Actress Mara Louw lashes out a producers Ferguson Films for allegedly treating her like trash, after The Queen on Mzansi Magic decided to move her to an on-call contract.

Mara Louw has caused a stir after the veteran actress lashed out in the Sunday tabloid press at Ferguson Films of Shona and Connie Ferguson after the producers told her that her character of Boi was being written out of The Queen on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161).

By attacking a producer and production company publicly that gave her work, Mara Louw is likely lessening her prospects of being hired by other producers, out of fear that they might possibly be shamed in public by the actress when contracts change.

In September 2017 Mara Louw was given three months' notice that the story arc of her character Boitshwarelo "Boi" Maake in The Queen is coming to an end and that she would be moved from "permanent" to an on-call on-air talent on the show.

Ferguson Films told Mara Louw that "it is necessary to exit the character of Boi from The Queen and bring her back on a call-basis as and when the story arcs require".

On Sunday The Sunday Sun tabloid front page blared Mara Louw slamming Mzansi Magic's The Queen and the producers saying "I was treated like trash".

Ferguson Films says Mara Louw as a hired actress declined to move to the on-call contract.

Mara Louw told The Sunday Sun that "I declined to take their offer because they treated me like trash. I was on a global contract for a year, which was supposed to expire in May. Those people decided to come to me in September to tell me they had terminated my contract because the producers of the show had run out of ideas for my story line."

"With my experience in the showbiz industry and age, you can't treat me like a nobody."

The Queen telenovela extended to 5 days per week as Mzansi Magic adds a Friday episode; Rami Chuene, Thato Molamu joining the cast.

Its proven to be true South African television royalty and from August Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) is extending its telenovela The Queen from 4 to 5 days a week, adding Fridays on the back of boffo ratings.

With the additional weekday episode the cast is expanding with Rami Chuene joining in the role of Gracious, and with Thato Molamu added in the role of up-and-coming lawyer, Bakang.

The Queen - a fascinating local telenovela produced for one of the M-Net's channels provided to MultiChoice's DStv satellite pay-TV platform - remains a hugely under-reported success story in South Africa's television industry, although it typifies everything that the new generation of South African television production can and should be.

The Queen - with its most watched episode in June that pulled 955 891 viewers to Mzansi Magic in its 21:00 timeslot - is the little TV locomotive that could, produced by the wife and husband team Connie and Shona Ferguson and their Ferguson Films outfit.

The Queen made its debut on Mzansi Magic at the beginning of August 2016 and the past few months production and production capacity has been ramped up to adjust for the additional weekday episode that will see the telenovela enlarge to 5 days per week from 31 July 2017.

The Queen is not just a South African TV rarity because it's done by black producers, who are married to each other, and with one of them also having a starring on-screen role (Connie plays Harriet).

It is also that the show, revolving around the fictional Khoza family, also continues to receive both critical and widespread popular acclaim. 

Usually what the TV critics like, viewers don't - and vice versa - yet The Queen has proven to be the rare TV gem everybody likes to watch.

"The Queen has become one of Mzansi Magic's most popular shows," says Reneilwe Sema, M-Net's director of local channels.

"As it stands, it broadcasts from Monday to Thursday, but its immense acclaim demands that we make it a full five-day a week show. Viewers just can't get enough of the twists and turns in the story, so we are giving them more."

The Queen has added seasoned actress Rami Chuene to the cast in the role of Gracious, with Thato Molamu added in the role of up-and-coming lawyer, Bakang. Magic Hlatshwayo returns as Kwanele's supportive dad, Alpheus.

Meanwhile viewers can't get enough of the flamboyant character Kgosi (played by Sello Maake ka-Ncube) who has created a new iconic South African TV character for the ages.


A Queen building out the TV biz
While shows like The Queen - and the process of how it is now being produced - is actually what the struggling South African public broadcaster should be doing, investing in, and nurturing in terms of exposing and training new talent in front of and behind-the-scenes - it is M-Net's Mzansi Magic that took the risk.

Being bold and spearheading the effort on this "new type" TV drama making, it is now Mzansi Magic that is getting the rewards with a show like The Queen that is produced on a much smaller budget than a mega-show like the KwaMashu set Uzalo of SABC1.

While drawing sizeable audiences to Mzansi Magic - which is what ultimately matters to the bottom-line - The Queen is also working and building out South Africa's TV-industry with novel re-invention. 

The popular show is both enlarging and upskilling the local TV production industry, while at the same time training and giving new people a change to learn and get experience as they go along for the ride.

It is something that the SABC is actually supposed to be doing - like the BBC - but is something that has steadily shifted to South Africa's pay-TV sector that doesn't need to, but that has picked up a large part of the responsibility with The Queen as a great example.

The Queen also does a lot of on-location shooting - for instance filming at rented homes multi-purposed as the set instead of paying for costly studio space - and using rooms, doors and exteriors of one property for instance to cleverly create numerous in-story locations.

The telenovela also gives a lot of young, and new, people opportunities in front of, and behind, the camera to learn and get a foot in the door of the TV biz - again something more in line with the remit of a public broadcaster but something that is clearly an important and integral part of making the show for The Queen's producers.

SABC fined R10 000 after SABC3's Isidingo uses a woman's real cell phone number, tells BCCSA 'mistakes like these are bound to happen'.

In a shocking case, the SABC that was slammed as grossly negligent, has been fined R10 000 after its SABC3 weekday TV soap Isidingo decided to use a woman's real telephone number that invaded her privacy and caused such havoc in her life that she even got a warning letter at work.

Meanwhile the SABC as part of its defense said "mistakes like these are bound to happen at some point".

While the American TV industry for decades has used fake digits starting with "5-5-5", the SABC used a real woman's real cell phone number in a late November 2016 episode of Isidingo on SABC3 that immediately caused havoc in her life.

She was instantly flooded by a barrage of calls and messages that she couldn’t control. It got so bad that she was disciplined through a warning letter in December 2016, negatively impacting her HR record at the railway company she works for.

The SABC offered up an apology but the woman, Thapelo Diale, who had lodged a complaint with the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA), said that wasn't enough for the personal chaos Isidingo caused and that she had to endure as a result of the South African public broadcaster's negligence.

She told the BCCSA of the emotional harm and verbal abuse she suffered when answering her phone when it was calls from people who got her number from Isidingo.

The SABC told the BCCSA that actor Shona Ferguson, who plays Thapelo "Tyson" Mokoena in Isidingo produced by Endemol Shine Africa, was told by the director in a scene shot in October 2016, to write down a cell phone number for another character as per the script.

The SABC revealed that the Endemol Shine Africa's script for the Isidingo episode "did not have a cell number for the character to use at the time when the scene was being shot".

That was when the Isidingo character of Thapelo wrote down the number of a real-life Thapelo – that of Thapelo Diale living in Johannesburg.

The SABC had the audacity to tell the BCCSA that "mistakes like these are bound to happen at some point" because "human beings drive the SABC".

'Unprecedented, serious negative consequences'

In its judgment the BCCSA found that the SABC invaded the privacy of the complainant, and that the shocking mistake "had unprecedented, extraordinary and serious negative consequences".

The BCCSA said "it constituted a breach of her privacy and disrupted her work and that of her colleagues".

The BCCSA slammed the SABC as "grossly negligent to randomly choose a cell phone number for use in a popular soap opera".

The BCCSA said "many viewers form personal relationships with actors and therefore may continue to call the number. The scriptwriters and producers should have foreseen that the number could be a real and private number belonging to somebody".

Invited to the Isidingo set

After the decision to do an on-air apology, Thapelo Diale appealed the judgment, saying she didn't believe that the judgment is proportional to the offence.

She told the BCCSA that "I feel that Isidingo seems to be getting away with just a slap on the wrist whereas we don't even know if the apology will actually stop the consequence of their negligence; not forgetting the irreparable dent to my employment record by way of a warning letter."

"It needs to hit them in the pocket so as to appreciate the magnitude of the inconvenience caused."

The SABC's broadcasting compliance department that argued for an apology to suffice, told the BCCSA's said that "given the time that has since elapsed since the incident took place, broadcasting an apology shows that the SABC is a caring and responsive broadcaster".

The SABC said "this unfortunate incident has taught us critical lessons about handling matters about invasion of privacy".

Later on during the hearing, the SABC offered to broadcast an apology and invite Thapelo Diale to the Isidingo set to meet the actors as well as Shona Ferguson who gave out her cell phone number on the air.

In the end Thapelo Diale and the SABC agreed that the SABC shouldn't broadcast an apology, with Diale fearing that it might encourage even more callers to start calling her number again.

She also asked that the SABC's lawyers must urgently write her employer to explain what happened and to ask for the warning letter that she got to be rescinded, and that the SABC must ensure that her cell phone number is removed from all Isidingo footage and the soap’s YouTube uploads.

"The SABC failed to demonstrate that it took exceptional care and consideration before calling out a mobile number live on TV, without first checking out if it belongs to anyone," the BCCSA found.

"This act, in our view is tantamount to gross negligence on the part of the broadcaster."

The BCCSA fined the SABC R10 000 that must be paid before 20 April.

Black TV producer Shona Ferguson slams South Africa's TV industry; says 'you are disrespected'; 'white producers are never disrespected by black folks'.

The successful black TV producer Shona Ferguson has slammed South Africa's TV and film industry, saying black producers are "disrespected and ill-treated for doing good" and that "white producers are never disrespected by black folks".

It's not clear what prompted the actor-producer's statement on Friday evening on social media.

Shona Ferguson's public lashing over the perceived disrespect that black TV producers endure, however comes exactly a day after all of the highly rated productions from Ferguson Films were completely snubbed by the 11th South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) that's set to take place in March at Sun City.

The 2017 Saftas is once again being embroiled in a boycott by South African TV producers who slammed the awards show organised by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) for its apparent lack of transparency and problems with the judging process.

In addition, a very glaring snub is Ferguson Films whose top shows like The Queen, Rockville and Igazi on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) were all shut out.

While The Queen, Rockville and Igazi as premium locally produced programming draw huge ratings for MultiChoice's DStv satellite pay-TV platform on the M-Net packaged channel - meaning they are shows that viewers love and watch in droves - none of these series, its crews or casts are included for any recognition this year in any of the nominee categories at the 2017 Saftas. 

In a series of tweets on Friday evening, with no indication as to why he's saying so, Shona Ferguson who co-own Ferguson Films with his actress-producer wife Connie Ferguson, highlighted race issues in South Africa's TV and film industry and perceived ill-treatment.

"Don't focus on the flash and think it's been an easy ride. In fact it gets harder every day. Being a black producer is not easy," said Shona Ferguson.

"You are disrespected and ill-treated for doing good, creating jobs and giving people opportunities to do what they love and earn a living.

"You work hard to contribute to the industry and grow it, but it's the very people that you give these opportunities to that spit in your face. White producers are never disrespected by black folks. It's sad that it's our brothers and sisters who wish you ill because you are doing well."

"It's about the work. Connie and I, through Ferguson Films, have been delivering A+, because we work hard. We love and appreciate what we do."

"We are very grateful. We are not asking for special treatment. All I ask is you give us the same respect you give the white producers."

"This is a very small industry. Be careful how you treat people and how you behave. When you are out of work tomorrow, just know it's all on you," said Shona Ferguson, adding that "I just want to make great TV and films".

Connie Ferguson dumps SABC1's Generations - again - as the actress says the productions of her Ferguson Films needs her 'undivided attention'.

Connie Ferguson is dumping SABC1's Generations - The Legacy - the second time she's exiting the Mfundi Vundla created weekday prime time soap.

Connie Ferguson who runs Ferguson Films with her husband Shona Ferguson, dropped Generations in April 2010 after 16 years but returned in late 2014 to help the relaunched Generations - The Legacy which never regained the soap's erstwhile popularity and viewership ratings.

Meanwhile Connie Ferguson who've started her own production company together with Shona Ferguson executive produced and starred in the drama Rockville for M-Net's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) and is branching out with new Mzansi Magic drama Igazi.

Connie Ferguson basically returned for a year and a half to try and steady the retooled Generations - The Legacy but now she is leaving although exiting scenes have not been filmed yet.

Viewers, some fellow actors and industry insiders branded Connie Ferguson a so-called "sell-out" for returning to work on a South African TV production that they feel is exploiting actors and on-screen talent, after the firing of Generations' 16-actor principal cast in 2014 after they demanded better contracts.

"It is with great disappointment that we have to announce the departure of the much-loved Karabo Moroka, played by the talented Connie Ferguson," says the soap in a statement.

"She's working on a couple of projects that need her undivided attention and has asked to be released from her contract."

"Connie was a significant figure in the construction of Generations - The Legacy. I will be eternally grateful for that and her contribution to the growth of our industry," says Mfundi Vundla.

"Karabo is one character that set tongues wagging and her exit will be no different".

Rockville back for a 2nd season on Mzansi Magic from 9 February; 'will push boundaries to deliver an even better season,' says Connie Ferguson.

Rockville returns for a second season of 10 episodes to Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) from 9 February at 20:00 and will "push the boundaries to deliver an even better season," says executive producer Connie Ferguson.

"Rockville's second season is darker, edgier and sexy," says Shona Ferguson, who is again executive producing the drama series with his wife. "Everyone brought their best to the table from cast to crew."

Clint Brink from e.tv's soap Scandal! is joining the Rockville cast as Trevor, as well as Masego "Maps" Maponyane who plays TK. Tango Ncetezo, Owen Sejake and Stephanie Schildknecht are also new to the second season.

"The high calibre of acting talent that is joining the already acclaimed cast is testament to the show's impact within the acting community of Mzansi," says Yolisa Phahle, M-Net's director for local interest channels.

"We're thrilled to welcome back Rockville to Mzansi Magic and are confident that the second season will consolidate the channels commitment to taking South African television to the next level in terms of  relevance, compelling entertainment and production values."

The second season of Rockville picks up following the shooting of Shona Ferguson's character Jackson "JB" Bogatsu by Mavis Mabaso (Connie Ferguson).

Its an interesting twist on the final episode of M-Net's soap The Wild in which Shona Ferguson's character was also shot (but died) as Connie Ferguson's character held him in her arms.

JB is now however alive and is fighting for his life on the surgeon's table.                                                                                                                                       

Rockville will try to rock as a new drama series on Mzansi Magic as the first TV drama of Connie and Shona Ferguson's Ferguson Films.

Everybody is tight-lipped but Ferguson Films will try to rock with its new drama series Rockville set to start on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) within months with husband-actors-producers couple Shona Ferguson and Connie Ferguson not only producing the drama series but also appearing in it.

Don't look for an on-screen reunion after Shona Ferguson's character literally died in the arms of Connie Ferguson's character in the shockingly negative and tragic ending of The Wild on M-Net at the end of March - they made a conscious decision not to appear in any scenes in Rockville together.

Rockville which had the working title of Black Diamonds and which is being produced by Ferguson Films revolves around two feuding families living in different places, similar to the Mzansi Magic telenovelas isiBaya and iNkaba.

In Rockville one family lives in Soweto (where Rockville is of course to be found) and the other in a leafy suburb.

Rockville's cast includes Minnie Dlamini, Luthuli Dlamini, Gail Nkoane, Boity Thulo, Bonnie Henna and Trevor Gumbi. Filming of the first season of Rockville ended on 2 April.

Mzansi Magic currently isn't able to give me a definite starting date for Rockville, doesn't want to officially reveal any actors in the show, or talk about the show at all.

Shona Ferguson nominated as best actor in a soap for the 6th Saftas in 2012 ... for his role in Scandal! he left in 2010.

Get this: Shona Ferguson is nominated and could possibly win in the category for best actor in a soap opera for the 6th South African Film and Television awards (Saftas) - but not for his current role in M-Net's The Wild ... for his role of Alex Phiri in e.tv's Scandal! a role he left at the end of 2010 already.

I asked and so far M-Net has no comment on an actor in their soap being nominated for a soap he hasn't been seen in on screen for more than a year.

I also asked the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) who organises the Saftas why Shona Ferguson got nominated for Alex in Scandal!. The NFVF explains:

''The Saftas rules specify that ' only  South African television productions/programmes that have been produced and publicly broadcast between 1 April 2010 until 31 July 2011 are eligible'. Therefore Shona Ferguson qualifies to be nominated for Scandal! as at the time of submission it qualified, even though he has left the soapie.''

TOLDJA! Real-life soap star couple Connie Ferguson and Shona Ferguson set for M-Net's soap The Wild starting in April.

M-Net just officially confirmed the news I broke last year already RIGHT HERE that soap star Connie Ferguson (who left SABC1's Generations) and her real-life husband Shona Ferguson (who left e.tv's Scandal!) are both attached to, and will be seen in M-Net's new soap The Wild that's set on a game farm and will start on the pay broadcaster in April.

M-Net has now changed the working title of the soap from Landmark to The Wild and confirms that Shona Ferguson will play a character called Ithumileng Tladi, ''a character wil dark complexities''. According to M-Net, Connie Ferguson will portray Marang Lebone, ''a wealthy mother figure from an affluent family who has an influential presence on all her family members''.

''Connie Ferguson and Shona Ferguson are TV - and soap - veterans,'' says Pierre Cloete, M-Net's channel head. ''The South African public loves these two charismatic and talentec personalities and their involvement in The Wild sets the tone for what will be an incredible and glamorous new series.'' The Fergusons released a joint, short statement simply stating that ''The Wild is a series unlike anything that has been done in South Africa and we are thrilled that we will be part of making television history in this way. We are both ready for this chapter in our lives and the fact that we have the chance to work together on-screen again is something we are extremely excited about.''

The Wild will start on M-Net on Monday, 4 April at 18:00 and run on weekdays.

ALSO READ: Connie Ferguson the big star in M-Net's new Landmark soap set to start in April 2011.
ALSO READ: COnnie Ferguson isn't working on her own TV talk show, but she is involved with a landmark TV production . . .