Stained Glass TV's Uzalo adds four actors to season 12 on SABC1 for 'more heart, more tension and honest storytelling'

by Thinus Ferreira

The Stained Glass TV weekday primetime soap on SABC1, Uzalo, has added four actors to the cast for its 12th season.

The KwaMashu-set series in KwaZulu-Natal has added Nduduzo Zuma, Phindile Mashabane, Sikhosiphi Ngcobo and Thulani Mtsweni.

Nduduzo Zuma has already appeared since 27 March as Smiso, described as a "bold, magnetic newcomer who arrives in KwaNjomane as part of its revamped, youthful energy".

"Charming, stylish, unpredictable and impossible to miss, Smiso quickly becomes more than just a fresh face, finding himself entangled in emotional dynamics with Babekazi that threaten to spiral beyond his control. His presence introduces a playful yet disruptive force that shifts the balance in unexpected ways."

Phindile Mashabane joined as LaDlamini and first appeared on 8 April. LaDlamini is described as "a sophisticated and self-made businesswoman whose quiet confidence speaks volumes".

"Intelligent, composed, and unwavering in her standards. She enters KwaMashu as a woman who knows her worth, immediately capturing Mbatha’s attention. But LaDlamini is not easily won over, and her presence sets the stage for a compelling pursuit marked by power, pride, and ambition."

Sikhosiphi Ngcobo joined Uzalo as Bab’Sizwe and will first appear on 10 April.

The character is described as "a respected traditional leader whose grief quickly transforms into a quest for justice".

"Following the death of Chief Shepherd, Bab’Sizwe’s pain fuels a growing tension determined to erase Nkunzi’s legacy e’Ndlende, igniting a powerful and emotionally charged battle over leadership, loyalty, and legacy. His arrival sparks a major shift in authority within KwaMashu."

The fourth actor that joined the cast is Thulani Mtsweni as Pondo, who will first appear on 24 April.

Pondo is described as "an old-school charmer with a loud, funny, and charismatic personality".

"Pondo’s easy-going nature masks a past defined by avoidance and unfinished business. Years ago, he cowardly fled a relationship, unable to face the responsibility of fatherhood that followed."

"Now resurfacing in the hostel, Pondo forms an unexpected bond with one of Izinsizwa, unaware of the deeper connection that ties them. His return sets the stage for a layered and emotional storyline, as long-buried truths begin to surface and demand accountability."

Ofentse Thinane, SABC1 channel head, speaking about the new Uzalo cast additions, says the channel is "Looking forward to the powerful moments and layered relationships you'll create".

David Mukwevho, Uzalo series producer, says "Every new character we introduce brings something meaningful to the story".

"This season, viewers can expect more heart, more tension and the kind of honest storytelling that continues to keep Uzalo close to so many South Africans."

"We invite our loyal viewers to join us for another thrilling season. Your unwavering support fuels our passion, and in season 12, we commit to bringing even more drama and excitement".

'Severe cash-flow contraints': Stained Glass TV forced to shut down production on SABC1's Uzalo over non-payment, 186 cast and crew told filming is paused 'with immediate effect'

by Thinus Ferreira

The biggest TV show on South African television has been forced to shut down production indefinitely due to non-payment by the SABC, with the Durban-based Stained Glass TV that has been forced to end production of Uzalo due to cash-flow problems impacting more than 56 cast members and 133 crew.

Stained Glass TV produces Uzalo for the South African public broadcaster, but also since earlier this year the Skeem Saam timeslot replacement since late-April on SABC1, Amalanga Awafani, which is also set and produced in KwaZulu-Natal. 

It's not yet known whether Stained Glass TV has been forced to also shutter production on Amalanga Awafani. 

"Dear team, we regret to inform you that, due to severe cash-flow constraints, we are compelled to pause production with immediate effect," co-executive producers Gugu Zuma-Ncube, Pepsi Pokane and co-owner Theo Moodley told the Uzalo cast and crew in an internal memo on Monday 4 August.

"Please know that we are actively engaging with the SABC to resolve the matter as swiftly as possible. We understand the impact this has on each of you and remain committed to keeping you informed as the situation develops."

"We are deeply grateful for your unwavering passion, professionalism, and dedication to this special production. Your contribution continues to inspire us, and we are doing everything in our power to get back on track."

Stained Glass Productions was asked for comment, when its cash-flow problems with Uzalo started and what led to it, when it last received payment from the SABC, when it was last supposed to get paid by the broadcaster, as well as how and possible when Stained Glass TV sees the money crisis and production shutdown getting resolved.

Stained Glass TV's answers will be added here once received.

The SABC was also asked in a media query about Uzalo's production shutdown due to cash-flow problems and comment will be added here when received.

Stained Glass TV responded with a statement, passed along from the SABC, saying: "There is no production break on Uzalo, and production continues as scheduled. The SABC remains committed to its partnership with the production company, Stained Glass, and values the continued contribution of the cast and crew."

"As a matter of principle, the SABC does not discuss the details of contractual agreements in the public domain."

Stained Glass TV was asked if there were no production break, why were the Uzalo cast and crew told that production is being paused, but the production company declined to provide an answer.

An insider told and confirmed to TVwithThinus that production crew didn't get paid and were told that production is stopping despite the spin that the SABC might try to put on it to keep the news from being public within the production industry.

Another source said the SABC has been making late payments to Stained Glass TV for Uzalo quite a while, although the production company them took on additional work with Amalanga Awafani.

"People are not worried that Uzalo will shut down in the sense of going off air, but it's a worry about constantly wondering if you're really going to get paid."

Uzalo is the latest in a string of SABC shows that have been forced to literally shut down production over the past while after production companies have not being paid as contractually agreed by the financially struggling South African public broadcaster.

Before Uzalo, shows like 7de Laan, The Estate, Skeem Saam and Muvhango airing across SABC1, SABC2 and SABC3 have shuttered production after the SABC failed to pay on time.

Just this year, Skeem Saam and Muvhango joined Uzalo in halting production in 2025 over non-payment. 

Meanwhile, Kew Productions took the SABC to court over its non-payment and had to sue the broadcaster this year just to get paid what it was owed for the unpaid part of a R10 million contract for seasons 12, 13 and 14 of the travelogue series Voetspore that used to be on SABC2.

The major crisis is waiting to be resolved by Maijang Mpherwane who has just returned since August to the SABC as the broadcaster's new head of video entertainment, with the Uzalo production shutdown that is his first big schedule stability headache.

Nomsa Chabeli, SABC CEO, told parliament recently that the SABC is prioritising paying the parastatal signal distributor Sentech first, which it owes more than R1 billion in outstanding debt. 

It means that some production companies are underpaid less than what they are owed, or nothing. 

"We pay Sentech first before we pay any of our service producers, meaning that producers come after the Sentech payment," Nomsa Chabeli said.

Uzalo actors Nompilo Maphumulo and Menzi Biyela to exit SABC1 soap with season 9's debut in 2023.

by Thinus Ferreira

Actors Menzi Biyela and Nompilo Maphumulo, known for their characters of Pastor Gwala and Nosipho have been let go by Stained Glass TV and their characters will exit Uzalo with the debut of the ninth season of the SABC1 soap in early 2023.

The Stained Glass TV production and SABC1 say the actors have been let go from the series and that their characters will exit the soap when season 9 starts next year. 

"We want to take our hats off to the stellar performances of Nompilo and Menzi over the years," says Thuli Nhlapo, SABC1 acting channel head. "Their portrayal of the characters, Nosipho and Pastor Gwala, will forever be embedded in the hearts and minds of our viewers."

King David Mukwevho, Uzalo series producer, says "We are incredibly honoured to have worked with such talents".

"Nompilo has been an integral part of Uzalo since season one, she has brought us a remarkable rendition of Nosipho that the fans will never forget, and Menzi's portrayal of Pastor Gwala has been nothing short of exemplary. Our viewers love them, and so do we. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours."

Filming starts on final season 3 of Zulu Showmax Original The Wife set to debut in November, first season linear TV showing set for Mzansi Magic from 12 September.

by Thinus Ferreira

Filming has started on the third and final season of the Zulu telenovela The Wife which will make its debut in November on MultiChoice's streaming service Showmax, while the Stained Glass TV production will start its linear TV windowing on M-Net's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) channel from 12 September.

The third season of The Wife, based on the Hlomu the Wife novels by Dudu Busani-Dube, will revolve around the romance of the Tswana doctor Naledi Montsho (Gaisang K. Noge) and the Zulu taxi driver Qhawe (Kwenzo Ngcobo). 

The returning The Wife cast includes Mbalenhle Mavimbela as Hlomu, Zikhona Sodlaka as Mandisa, Khanyi Mbau as Zandile and Mondli Makhoba as Nkosana, with Linda Majola returning as Langa. 

The only cast replacement is Wiseman Mncube stepping on for Bonko Khoza as Mqhele.

"With Naledi missing and the Zulu brothers’ crimes now front page news, the third and final season of The Wife is going to be explosive," says Busisiwe Ntintili, head writer. "The Zulu brothers may have finally met their match in Naledi's family."

The third season of The Wife expands beyond the Johannesburg taxi industry to Royal Thabeng and the North West, introducing new cast members like Sello Motloung as Naledi's father, Kgosi; Stoan Seate as Sefako, Qhawe's rival for Naledi; Ncebakazi Pilingane as Xoli, Sambulo's love interest; Mo Setumo as Tshidi, Naledi's elder sister; Terrence Ngwila as Detective Baloyi; and Mathews Rantsoma as Tsietsi. 

Sipho Ndlovu, Thulane Shange and Swelihle Luthuli as the Zulu brothers Sambulo, Mqoqi and Ntsika will also have bigger roles.

The first season of The Wife starts a three-episodes per week linear TV showing on Mzansi Magic from Monday 12 September at 21:30, making the series accessible to lower-tiered DStv Compact subscribers.

"Having seen its impressive and record-breaking performance on Showmax, we have decided to bring The Wife to our DStv Compact subscribers so that they can get in on the action," says Shirley Adonisi, M-Net director of local entertainment channels.

"We know that our viewers will fall in love with the story and its characters. It's a show that has resonated deeply with many, and we're glad to bring all of our subscribers into this phenomenal world."

e.tv pulls the plug on Durban Gen after 2 years.

by Thinus Ferreira

e.tv has pulled the plug on its early prime time series Durban Gen which will end in January 2023 after just over two years.

Durban Gen, filmed in Durban, launched on e.tv in October 2020 at the same time as SABC2's hospital drama series Vutha, and is set in the Durban township of Newlands East and the corridors of the Durban General academic public hospital.

Produced by Stained Glass TV also responsible for SABC1's Uzalo and The Wife on MultiChoice's video streaming service Showmax, has been e.tv's fourth most-watched series and lured 2.75 million viewers (7.12 AR / 27.5 share) during April to its early prime time 18:30-timeslot.  

e.tv that issued a death certificate to Durban Gen comes as M-Net channels like kykNET (DStv 144) recently cancelled its Afrikaans weekday soap Getroud met Rugby in the 18:00 timeslot and Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) cancelled The Queen. 

eMedia says in a statement "e.tv can confirm that the hospital drama Durban Gen will be coming to an end in January 2023".

"The decision to decommission the daily drama is part of a business strategy which includes the on-going review of the on-air life-cycle of all our shows."

"e.tv continues to look forward to fulfilling its mandate of producing exceptional and relevant local content, and the production has successfully achieved its part of the obligation throughout the past 2 years."

South Africa's KZN flooding disaster: How flooded sets paused production and pushed out filming on Uzalo, Durban Gen, Imbewu and a movie.

by Thinus Ferreira

With flooded sets and casts and crew unable to get to work, the destructive rainfall and disastrous flooding in KwaZulu-Natal also damaged South Africa's TV and film industry as it disrupted production of Uzalo as the country's biggest TV show as well as other television series filmed in the province, with at least one locally-shot film that has to pause and push out its start of filming to next month.

South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province is dealing with a growing humanitarian disaster with more than 448 people who have lost their lives so far and billions of rand of damage to infrastructure and property.

The country's cabinet has declared a National State of Disaster in response to floods while KwaZulu-Natal based productions, making some of the biggest shows on South African television are also assessing the damage the floodwater wrought and picking up the pieces.

Uzalo on SABC1 and Durban Gen on e.tv that saw flooded sets and Imbewu on e.tv - all filmed in the province - had to halt production but have and are resuming production again.

The KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission (KZFC) tells TVwithThinus "the floods affected every community in KwaZulu-Natal. Most of the work in TV and film had to be put on hold due to lack of electricity, water and the roads being closed".

"We have not received any updates regarding most productions that had to be paused, however as productions usually take place around the KwaZulu-Natal area, there is a high possibility that they were also affected."

"A feature film called The Score was due to film from 19 April but due to the devastation experience in the province, they had to delay production until 16 May. We are still in the process of determining whether there were other projected affected."

The KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission says it is waiting to hear from producers to indicate what assistance they would need from the commission's side in order to get back in schedule with their filming processes.

"As the industry and an agency of the state, we are comforted by the fact that the government has made an estimation of the loss and are working on ensuring that people's livelihood are restored."

Stained Glass TV, the production company responsible for Uzalo - the most-watched show on South African television and most-watched show on the SABC that drew over 7 million viewers in March on SABC1 - told TVwithThinus that the prime time telenovela had to shut down production for 5 days but has resumed filming.  

The prime time soap Durban Gen, also produced by Stained Glass TV for eMedia's e.tv that lured 2.51 million viewers in March, also had to deal with flooded sets and shut down production for one day and for two days worked with cast and crew who could make it to work.

"Like most of KwaZulu-Natal our productions were also gravely impacted by the floods," Stained Glass TV spokesperson Nomfundo Zondi tells TVwithThinus.

"On both productions, we couldn't shoot for numerous days due to our sets being flooded and cast and crew being unable to make the journey to work. Lastly, all location and street scenes were temporarily halted simply because the weather wasn't conducive."

"Fortunately, we were able to quickly make the necessary reparations to the sets to resume production. Our hearts are with all those impacted, It is indeed a tough time for KwaZulu-Natal as many have not only lost jobs and homes but loved ones as well," she says.

Production will resume today on Imbewu, the prime time soap from Grapevine Productions on e.tv that lured 3.44 million viewers in March and which is also filmed in the flood-ravaged province.

"Due to weather conditions and flooding, some personnel were severely impacted and unable to travel to work," spokesperson Nilesh Singh says.

"As such, the production was halted on 12 and 13 April. A production break of one week for Easter, starting on 14 April was already scheduled and the production will resume as normal on Wednesday".

Season 8 of Uzalo introduces new ensemble cast to the KwaMasha drama led by the ruthless matriarch of the Magwaza family.

by Thinus Ferreira

The 8th season of the most-watched show on South African television will debut on Friday 4 March when Uzalo on SABC1 will introduce some new characters into the KwaMashu-set primetime series in the form of the Magwaza family.

"We are excited for audiences to experience a reimagined Uzalo," says Stained Glass TV executive producer Pepsi Pokane.

"The production team promises a season of high-stakes drama, riveting storylines, creativity, and skilful production. The production has several new faces joining the show, and it is a great pleasure to work with this impressive talent."

"We are confident that our viewers are eager to continue experiencing authentic stories that represent their everyday realities in a way that resonates with them."

The 8th season of Uzalo will usher in a new ensemble cast led by the Magwaza family that might be more than a match for the notorious Nkunzi.

The Magwaza family matriarch Njinji, portrayed by Thembi Nyandeni, is described as "a ruthless wolf in sheep's clothing" whose power-play dealings will "shake the whole Kwamashu community" according to the show.

The character of Njinji is introduced in Uzalo with her daughter, Nomaswazi Magwaza (Omuhle Gela), described as "a beautiful, smart, and conniving woman that moves stealthily, much like her mother".

Cousin Vikizitha Magwaza (Siyabonga Radebe) is described as "a charming and lethal criminal with his eyes fixed on Nkunzi's throne. 

Then there is Simon Nsimbi (Ronald Mkhwanazi), Njinji's son, right-hand man and described as a "voice of reason".

The police force is expanded with Constable Biyela (Thabisile Zikhali), described as "an honest and well-educated woman determined to keep the department on the straight and narrow".

The character of Flavia (Sthembile Mhlongo) is a "focused and independent career woman".

In addition to these new characters, Amahle Sishi (Hope Mbhele) enters the world of Uzalo as a "fun and liberal woman that captures the attention of Lilly". 

Kwanda (Sandile Mfusi) makes his arrival in KwaMashu "as a driven and charming man that woos Nonka into his attractive web, concealing his ulterior motives".

The Wife produced by Stained Glass TV as the first Showmax telenovela will debut with 3 weekly episodes from 11 November.

by Thinus Ferreira

MultiChoice's video streaming service Showmax has commissioned its first South African telenovela with The Wife that will start on Thursday 11 November with 3 episodes that will be made available every Thursday.

Produced by Stained Glass TV, also responsible for Uzalo on SABC1, The Wife is inspired by the novel Hlomu the Wife written by Dudu Busani-Dube.

Showmax ordered 40 episodes each of Dudu Busani-Dube's books Hlomu the Wife, Zandile the Resolute, and Naledi His Love. 

The books follow the lives of 8 Zulu brothers, a formidable crime family, through the eyes of the various wives they marry. 

According to Showmax, the series won't be a direct screen adaptation of the books but will bring viewers some "new experiences and surprises on screen".

The cast of The Wife includes Bonko Khoza as Mqhele, with Kwenzo Ngcobo as Qhawe, Sipho Ndlovu as Sambulo, Abdul Khoza as Nqoba; Mondli Makhoba as Nkosana; Thulane Nkululeko Shange as Mqoqi, Ishmauel Songo as Mpande, and Swelihle Luthuli as Ntsika. 

The Wife is the eighth South African Showmax Original released in 2021.

SABC2 and e.tv scrubbing in with new hospital drama series Vutha and Durban Gen.

by Thinus Ferreira

Amidst the global Covid-19 pandemic South Africa's SABC and e.tv are both launching competing new locally-produced hospital dramas with SABC2 that will ventilate Vutha on Thursday nights at 21:30 from 3 September and with e.tv that will resperate Durban Gen from Monday 5 October at 18:30.

Vutha produced by Clive Morris Productions - eerily similar in name to the devastating and fictitious Vutha virus that caused chaos in SABC1's Generations in mid-2019 - as well as Durban Gen produced by Stained Glass TV, marks South African terrestrial television's first return to hospital drama series since SABC2's Hillside, SABC3's Jozi-H and M-Net's Binnelanders.

Both Vutha and Durban Gen have been filming and impacted by the real-world circumstances and changes to life and lockdown of the Covid-19 coronavirus in South Africa. 

Besides production schedule and operational changes, crews working behind-the-scenes at Vutha and Durban Gen suddenly had to don marks just like the on-screen talent after the threat of a real virus became as big a concern as the fictional medical dramas captured on screen.

Vutha, set within the Daveyton community and inside the corridors of the Edward Dondolo Hospital, will go "beyond the world of medicine where there is a world of love, friendship, betrayal, hope, desperation, corruption, greed and crime" according to SABC2 which didn't pre-screen the show ahead of its broadcast debut to TV critics and the media.

Created by TV producer and presenter Ntokozo Mbuli, Vutha stars Kabelo Moalusi as Dr Kgopotso Moabe and Dumisani Mbebe as Mzwakhe Masilela as it explores the journeys of medical professionals within the South African landscape and looks at the challenging lives that form the backdrop of their career successes.

Other cast members include Busisiswa Lurayi as specialist obstetrician Lungile Asumadu, Ayanda Bandla as Anelisa Moabe, Leroy Gopal as Ayitey Asumadu and Siya Raymond Sepotokele as Tumelo. Vutha's cast list also stars Mmarona Motshegoa, Lebohang Motaung, Miranda Ntshangase, Moditle Pholo, Molobane Maja and Sipho Mbele.

Clive Morris Productions describes the Edward Dondolo Hospital as "a furtive breeding ground for colourful characters, high stakes and great drama" with the heroic clinical manager, Dr Kgopotso Moabe, rushes to save a mother giving birth on the pavement outside the hospital.

Matron Mologadi arrives home from the United Kingdom to fix her fractured family and hospital CEO Mzwakhe is terrorised by a loan shark for outstanding debts.

"With a star-studded cast, viewers are in for a real treat and will no doubt emotionally connect with the characters and this intriguing story from the first episode," says Jacqui Hlongwane, SABC2 programme manager.

Durban drama
e.tv's Durban Gen is from the Grey's Anatomy mold, following, like Meredith, the life of the main protagonist Mbali Mthethwa, "a newly qualified doctor who moves to the big city, away from her fiancé and the small town they grew up in, to serve her final year of community service".

Durban Gen is filmed in Durban and set in the Durban township of Newlands East and the corridors of the Durban General academic public hospital.

It's here where Mbali, played by Nelisiwe Sibiya, soon finds herself in a love triangle between her fiancé Sbusiso Dlamini (Ntando Mncube) and her boss Dr Lindelani Zulu (Mike Ndlangamandla), described as "a brilliant, attractive surgeon with whom she has undeniable chemistry".

On her arrival at Durban General Hospital, Mbali assists in a surgery that goes horribly wrong and that leads to the death of a politician.

That plummets the hospital, Mbali, and Dr Lindelani Zulu into the middle of an investigation that threatens to derail her career.

The Durban Gen cast includes Meshack Mavuso as Dr Thabo Dlamini and Durban Gen's head of surgery, and Duduzile Ngcobo, who as Dr Nomalanga Qwabe.

According to e.tv Durban Gen "follows the trials, tribulations, triumphs, betrayals and bonds experienced by Mbali, the staff of Durban General, and the patients who come through its doors looking for help, refuge, and health".

"KwaZulu-Natal has progressively become the quintessential pulse of local productions, not only from a storyline perspective but for its ability to provide fertile soil from which to grow and build new talent," says Helga Palmer, e.tv's new head of local productions.

Coronavirus: Uzalo on SABC1 shuts down production because of Covid-19, says the show will remain on the air.

by Thinus Ferreira

Friday marked the point that virtually every single big, locally-produced primetime South African TV series have had to shutter over the past month and a half because of positive Covid-19 cases at the studio lots and on-set when SABC1's Uzalo also closed down because of the coronavirus.

Uzalo stresses that despite the temporary shutdown, the show will remain on the air on SABC1 with pre-recorded episodes.

Uzalo - produced by Stained Glass TV in Durban halted production on Friday after a crew member tested positive.

"The SABC has been notified by Stained Glass TV that Uzalo has shut down today, due to a crew member testing positive for Covid-19," Mmoni Seapolelo told TVwithThinus in response to a media enquiry.

"The production will follow the necessary protocols and it must be noted that the broadcast of the soap on SABC1 will not be affected."

Uzalo executive producer, Pepsi Pokane, tells TVwithThinus that the Stained Glass production "adheres to all the health and safety measures and protocols to assist in combating the spread of Covid-19 and safeguard our production crew and cast".

"It is critical for us to prioritise the safety of all staff members. We offer our sincerest well wishes and support to our colleague."

"In accordance with Covid -19 safety protocols, Uzalo production sets have undergone an intensive disinfection process to further minimize the risk of contamination as part of production’s regular health and safety practice."

"To ensure the wellbeing of the whole Uzalo team, production has halted to ensure measures are implemented to reduce any further exposure. Uzalo will remain on television screens with exciting storylines and captivating twists."

Since South Africa's battered film and TV industry emerged from an 8-week national lockdown period in May this year, one show after another succumbed to a growing number of Covid-19 cases.

From large to small, production companies making the local shows that bring the big ratings, have had to shut down the lights and cameras yet again as they closed the studio doors for a deep-clean and self-isolation of cast and crew.

Uzalo, SABC1 and South Africa's most-watched TV show, joins M-Net's The River (produced by Tshedza Pictures) on 1Magic (DStv 103) that was the first show to shut down in May after local productions geared up again, followed by Skeem Saam on SABC1.

After them followed Muvhango (produced by Word of Mouth Productions) on SABC2 that only restarted filming on Thursday although 10 more cast and crew tested positive who are not at work and self-isolating.

Rhythm City (Produced by Quizzical Pictures) and Scandal! (produced by Ochre Media) both on e.tv also shut down.

7de Laan (produced by Danie Odendaal Productions) on SABC2 also shut down because of Covid-19 but is now back in production, followed by Generations - The Legacy (produced Morula Pictures) on SABC1 and Lithapo (produced by Quizzical Pictures) on SABC2 that were the next two shows to shut down.

e.tv's Imbewu produced by Grapevine Productions in KwaZulu-Natal also shut down because of a Covid-19 positive case.

Both Suidooster filmed at Atlantic Studios in Cape Town and produced by Suidooster Films and Arendsvlei produced by Penguin Films had positive Covid-19 cases.

Positive Covid-19 results also impacted Binnelanders produced by Stark Films at Stark Studios in Johannesburg, Kom Ons Jol from C-SAW Media, and Die GROOT Ontbyt and Kom Ons Praat Daaroor done from Pretoria, all broadcast on M-Net's kykNET (DStv 144) and kykNET & Kie (DStv 145) channels.

Last week Isibaya, produced by The Bomb Shelter for M-Net's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161), had to shut down because of Covid-19.

All of the local South African TV news channels - eNCA (DStv 403), SABC News (DStv 404) and Newzroom Africa (DStv 405) - continue to struggle with challenges around staffers testing positive for Covid-19.

Coronavirus: South Africa's most watched TV show going off-air and replaced with Makoti repeats as Uzalo on SABC1 finally runs out of new episodes because of Covid-19 shutdown.

by Thinus Ferreira

South Africa's most-watched TV show Uzalo on SABC1 has also fallen victim to the Covid-19 pandemic and is going off the air from Monday for 5 weeks after the production company and the SABC have run out of episodes.

The final new episode of Uzalo, produced by Stained Glass TV, on location in KwaZulu-Natal on its Durban studio lot and in KwaMashu will be broadcast on SABC1 on Friday night at 20:30 with repeats of Makoti that will replace the timeslot from Monday 11 May.

With more TV households home Uzalo reached a new high watermark of 11.4 million viewers for its most-watched episode in April, a new overall South African TV ratings record.

With South Africa's Covid-19 national lockdown that was lowered to Level 4, filming on Uzalo resumed again this week on Wednesday but not with enough time to record and edit episodes in post-production and to deliver them to the SABC's programming acceptance department to ensure a seamless contnuation in playout.

Uzalo will go off-air on SABC1 for 5 weeks between Monday 11 May and Friday 12 June and return with new episodes on Monday 15 June 2020. 

The SABC tells TVwithThinus that Uzalo going on a broadcast hiatus is "an unintended result of the declared national lockdown which caused a halt to and disrupted television production schedules throughout this time".

"The Uzalo production break was carried out in full compliance to the regulations as set by government for the lockdown period, to ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved cast as well as the production crew against the Covid-19 pandemic."

"SABC1 viewers should look forward to their favourite soapie returning with more gripping storylines and enhanced production value from Monday 15 June 2020."


ALSO READ: Coronavirus: South Africa's decimated film and TV industry allowed back to work amidst Covid-19 pandemic – but without extras or studio audiences.
ALSO READ: How South Africa's no-sex soaps are adjusting on-set during Covid-19: Creative camera tricks, no holding hands and the end of on-screen intimacy.

Coronavirus: Uzalo to remain shuttered after South Africa's most-watched TV show applied and got 'an essential service' permit.

by Thinus Ferreira

South Africa's most-watched TV show, Uzalo on SABC1 produced by Stained Glass TV, has been told to remain shut down after it tried to resume production during the ongoing Covid-19 national lockdown period when it applied and was approved as an "essential service".

All South African local TV and film productions were shuttered following president Cyril Ramaphosa announcement of a national lockdown period to try and curb the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country - including Uzalo.

The local prime time soap however applied for exempt status as an essential service and was approved with a permit issued by the Company and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).

The hugely popular, local weekday soaps seen on the South African public broadcaster's channels, the free-to-air commercial broadcaster e.tv, and those produced by M-Net for its 1Magic (DStv 103), Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) and kykNET (DStv 144) and kykNET & Kie (DStv 145) channels on MultiChoice's DStv pay-TV service attract a combined evening audience of millions of viewers but like restaurants are not an essential service.

Last week insiders raised concerns about the eye-popping approval of Uzalo to continue production, wondering if permission were perhaps granted because Uzalo co-producer Gugulethu Zuma-Ncube is the daughter of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, South Africa's current minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs, and former president Jacob Zuma.

Uzalo's last new, stockpiled episode will be broadcast on 8 May on SABC1, after which the show, filmed in Durban and set in KwaMashu, will have to go into repeats. It is SABC1 and South Africa's most-watched TV show and in March saw a ratings surge, climbing almost a million viewers from 9.31 million viewers to 10.29 million viewers

The SABC has now said that under no circumstances is Stained Glass TV, owned by Gugu Zuma-Ncube and Pepsi Pokane, or any other local production company to resume production on entertainment shows before the national lockdown period is over.

Uzalo was told to keep the cameras switched off and work on the public broadcaster's local TV productions will remain suspended.

Mmoni Seapolelo, SABC spokesperson, told TVwithThinus on Monday that "The SABC maintains that all its productions remain closed until a collective decision regarding production houses resuming work is made, in line with government regulations".

"We would also like to reiterate that we have put measures in place including crucial engagements with relevant stakeholders concerning the organisation’s delivery on the set local content quotas."

"Based on the president’s announcement to move to alert Level 4 of the lockdown from 1 May 2020, the department of communications and digital technologies, and the department of sport, arts and culture, are developing a proposal on mechanisms to ease the lockdown on productions."

"Once the guidelines and framework for easing restrictions on productions are finalised, the SABC will apply its mind to make informed decisions regarding resuming work on impacted productions. For now, work on productions will remain suspended."

Mmoni Seapolelo says that "the SABC continues to ensure full compliance with all regulations set by the government during this period as well as strictly prioritising adherence to health and safety measures, for the benefit of our employees and production houses alike".

Stained Glass TV was asked why it applied to film Uzalo and saw it as an essential service, what the SABC said when Uzalo wanted to resume production, and how the show films when make-up, hair, wardrobe and other technical production aspects make social distancing extremely difficult or impossible.

Stained Glass TV didn't answer any of the specific questions but told TVwithThinus on Monday that the show remains shut down.

"Uzalo will only resume production post the extended lockdown. It is important to us to do our part in this effort to combat the Covid-19 global pandemic and safeguard our cast, production crew and the greater community."

 Meanwhile, it looks like the Uzalo cast and crew might have to remain at home for even longer.

With an ongoing increase in cases Durban might very likely remain at Level 5 lockdown from 1 May and beyond. Sihle Zikalala, KwaZulu-Natal premier, on Sunday said at a press conference that parts of the eThekwini municipality that includes Durban will very likely remain under Level 5 conditions from May.

"As things stand it looks like eThekwini will still remain under stricter lockdown regulations compared to other districts, unless there is a drastic change in the coming days," Sihle Zikalala said.

'Don't pay for auditions. Ever.' SABC1's Uzalo starts education campaign to combat South Africa's growing scourge of con-artists luring desperate people to fake auditions.

Don't pay for any audition. Ever. So says South Africa's most-watched TV show, Uzalo on SABC1 that is starting an awareness campaign to combat the growing scourge of con-artists preying on enthralled yet uninformed viewers who continue to fall for fake audition scams and are swindled out of money.

While the growing popularity of locally-produced, serialised weekday dramas across South Africa TV channels the past five years has been a boon for not just TV ratings and the local television industry but also the wider entertainment sector where ancillary media like the gossip press feed off of the bevy of newly minted soap stars, there's also been a rise in the dangerous, dark side.

A growing number of con-artists are shamelessly preying on unsuspecting, fame-seeking viewers who are dreaming of their chance under the studio spotlights and before the camera, or the chance to meet the actors they see at meet-and-greets and organised star-parties.

While very few of these opportunities are legitimate it ends with South Africans not just paying and losing from hundreds to thousands of rands but in some cases also literally risking their lives with criminals and human trafficking as they agree to pay for travel to bogus auditions.

The more popular a TV show and the more fanatic the viewership, the more prone South Africa's biggest shows - from Uzalo and Generations, to 7de Laan, Muvhango, Binnelanders and many others - have become to exploitation by con-artists exploiting these brands by promising auditions and parties with the stars.

"At no point should anyone be paying to audition for anything - whether a TV show, a theatre role, or a TV advert," says Uzalo.

As South Africa and SABC1's biggest TV show that lures more than 9 million viewers on weeknights, Uzalo will now be taking steps to educate its audience and the broader public about auditions to prevent viewers falling victim of scams that end up damaging the industry and TV brands.

"Increasingly, there is a tendency for scam artists and fraudsters to use social media networks to claim that auditions are taking place, when in fact they are not," says Mmamitse Thibedi, creative director at Stained Glass TV, the production company that produces Uzalo in Durban in KwaZulu-Natal.

"Uzalo has been negatively impacted by bogus auditions posted from fake social media accounts calling on new talent to try out for various roles on the much-loved soapie."

"Disturbingly, these calls to audition often charge the young hopefuls an 'audition fee' further taking advantage of their desperation to enter the industry. This does real damage to the Uzalo brand, and cruelly exploits thousands of acting hopefuls," says Mmamitse Thibedi.

"Uzalo and all its partners are credible industry professionals who appreciate the commitment and passion of aspiring actors who want to join our show. We are also extremely sensitive to upholding industry standards and operating in an ethical, legal manner."

"When we need new faces for the show, we go the correct route – working with our casting partners and being transparent about all details. At no point should anyone be paying to audition for anything – whether a  TV show, a theatre role, or a TV advert. That simply doesn't happen".

"It is heart-wrenching to see shady individuals denting the image of the industry for a 'quick buck' that could see the collapse of many young artists' dreams."

"Uzalo will be embarking on an educational drive around legitimate industry processes, particularly around auditions, aimed at equipping aspiring actors with necessary industry knowledge," says Mmamitse Thibedi.

"We will communicate across media and on our official social media platforms. Our team members – from behind the scenes to on-screen talent – will impart lessons on how to spot fake auditions, and how to verify those that are real."

"We hope that through this initiative we will be able to provide new industry aspirants with the tools to successfully navigate this very competitive industry."

Uzalo will from now on be communicating audition tips, industry do's and don'ts, and pointers on how to identify fraudulent auditions.

Producers Stained Glass TV crows over performance of its local primetime shows Uzalo and eHostela done from KwaZulu-Natal.

The Stained Glass TV production company is crowing over the performance of its two primetime drama series, Uzalo and eHostela.

Uzalo, currently in its 5th season and the most-watched show on South African television and on SABC1, received 7 nominations for 2019's upcoming 13th South African Film and Television Awards (Saftas) taking place on 2 March at Sun City.

Meanwhile viewership of eHostela on Mzansi Magic has reached 1.16 million viewers, the second most watched show on MultiChoice's DStv. 

"We're thrilled about how this year is shaping up so far," says Mmamitse Thibedi, executive producer at Stained Glass TV. 

"As a KwaZulu-Natal based production house, it's been a real privilege to tell the fascinating stories of this part of the country. We've been able to enlist incredible talent from the province – both production and cast – and it shows in the final product."

"Both Uzalo and eHostela have consistently drawn healthy audiences and with 7 Safta nominations for Uzalo, it's clear that the industry also agrees that we're on the right track.

Uzalo has been nominated for Best Actress (Dawn Thandeka King) and Best supporting actor (Khaya Dladla), as well as Best achievement in sound, Best achievement in editing, Best achievement in wardrobe, and best achievement in make-up.

"eHostela, which has enlisted the services of fresh acting talent and some of the industry's most accomplished production professionals, has been rewarded by loyal audiences who have consistently shown up from its first episode on 6 January 2019," says Mmamitse Thibedi.

"The viewership in excess of 1 million viewers, is a true testament to the fact that Stained Glass' commitment to telling authentic South Africa's stories is the most direct paths to viewers hearts and minds."

NV Studios partners with Uzalo producers, Stained Glass TV, to try and develop a slate of international scripted and non-scripted co-productions.

NV Studios, producers of international broadcast content, is partnering with Stained Glass TV, producers of the weekday prime time soap, Uzalo, on SABC1, to develop a slate of international scripted and non-scripted co-productions.

NV Studios is headed up by CEO Damien Brown with Stained Glass TV run by Gugulethu Zuma-Ncube and Pepsi Pokane.

The partnership between NV Studios and Stained Glass TV will try to create content with both a local South African and international flavour, including a reimagining of one of South Africa’s historical tales.

This will includes an examination of America’s politically-charged figures from the 1970s and the story of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of MDMA, set in Los Angeles and Australia.

Damien Brown says that the partnership between NV Studios and Stained Glass TV will give the series the gravitas they deserve. "Pepsi and his team produce the country's biggest show – and that's just one item on their slate."

"Their production nous and the ability to draw from a pool of immensely talented local actors and crew will be invaluable in ensuring that the shows we'll be creating together will meet global standards," says Damien Brown.

Pepsi Pokane says that NV Studios' international network of distributors, broadcasters and partners will play a pivotal role in showcasing these stories to the world.

"Damien Brown and his team have achieved phenomenal success on the global stage, with nearly 80 seasons of shows currently available in more than 150 countries."

"Pairing the scale of our production operation with their network of partners will ensure that these shows take their rightful place on the global stage."

Serious threat escalating of the SABC's content cupboard running bare with no guarantee that South Africa's independent TV producers will be getting paid after February.

The looming and serious threat of the SABC's TV content cupboard soon going bare in early-2019 is fast escalating as the public broadcaster approaches its own "Day Zero" when it becomes unable to pay its own staff salaries from the end of February.

Within months SABC viewers could be stuck with an increase of old repeats, blackouts or even reduced broadcasting hours with the SABC unable to fully pay external producers for staple programming - its weekday local soaps - with the SABC that can't provide a guarantee that independent TV producers will be paid after the end of February.

Rapport newspaper on Sunday, quoting unnames SABC management sources, reported that the SABC doesn't have money for its SABC News division to cover the upcoming national elections in 2019, something that previously cost the embattled broadcaster around R35 million.

Meanwhile South African TV producers supplying content to the SABC are now literally crying from stress as the casts and crews across programmes made by production companies are fearful of how they are to provide for their families and pay their bills this year.

In November 2018 the SABC board told parliament that by the end of February the commercially insolvent South African public broadcaster getting closer and closer to a financial cliff, will only be able to pay some of its permanent SABC staff salaries, and by end of March no salaries.

The SABC is prioritising internal staff salaries above anything else, along with things like "water and lights", and with the broadcaster already unable to settle its full electricity bill for its Auckland Park headquarters. 

Local producers 'subsidising' the SABC

The SABC - in desperate need of another bailout in the form of another government-guaranteed bank loan similar to its last financial meltdown in 2011 - owes millions of rands to South Africa's independent production sector who have not been paid and received a few sporadic, late payments for content it's producing and delivered to the SABC for broadcast over the past year, something that's continuing and creating immense stress, industry uncertainty and ongoing job losses.

Individual South African production companies and producers in business with the broadcaster and owed money whilst being asked to continue to provide content and carry the burden of "subsidising" the SABC out of their own pocket with constant promises of payment, are scared to speak publicly or to criticise the SABC openly.

Although not getting paid by the SABC, in a form of Stockholm syndrome, producers don't want to damage relationships with the SABC, or risk losing contracts or potential future production contracts and income, although they're extremely scared.

Producers are unable to make their own long-term plans and don't know what to tell their casts and crews about when they will get paid or when or if any of the people they employ in turn, will have work in 2019.

Besides multiple other shows, several production companies - collectively employing and paying thousands of people - are each producing hundreds of episodes annually of stripped timeslot weekday local soaps for the SABC's three TV channels ranging from Uzalo, Generations and Skeem Saam to 7de Laan, Muvhango and Isidingo.

These producers and others, some of whom already had to suffer through SABC non-payment in 2018 including forced production shutdowns, are now fearing for the future and not being paid for their prime time soaps from February. 

Without money and payment they won't be able to continue to provide episodes of the hugely watched local soap operas to the SABC. 

If producers individually or collectively stop delivering new episodes. the South African public broadcaster has padding of about a month's episodes before the video cupboard is empty.  

This will force SABC schedule managers to switch to repeats, old library content from the SABC archives or to programme something else in its place which the SABC likewise won't be able to pay for.

'No money to shoot'

"No money to shoot," a stressed production crew on one of the SABC's biggest shows told TVwithThinus this week half a month into the new year, saying "we haven't started production since we closed for holidays last year. The production hasn't received money from the SABC".

Asked what is most stressful, the crew member says "our concerns are [paying] bills".

Meanwhile Uzalo - the most watched show on South African television and on SABC1 that abruptly shut down in August 2018 and ceased production when the cast and crew downed tools over the SABC's non-payment - has allegedly been affected yet again by the SABC's non-payment troubles with production on the new 5th season in 2019 that has apparently been delayed again.

Asked for a response about the SABC's alleged latest non-payment, the show on Monday told TVwithThinus that "we can confirm that Uzalo resumed production last week, and shooting has commenced for season 5".

"As I'm sure you can appreciate, details of payment schedules between service provider and client are subjected to the principles of client confidentiality, and as such, we are unable to respond to your query on the specifics of payment," said the production company Stained Glass TV.

"Should there be any shift in the developments that necessitate us alerting the viewing public, we will communicate appropriately".

The SABC in response to a media enquiry about the ongoing non-payment of the country's independent TV producers repeated its earlier holding statement, with Neo Momodu, SABC spokesperson, again saying that "the SABC's financial situation is a matter of public record. Amounts owing to independent producers are being closely managed and monitored between the SABC and its service providers".

"The SABC has worked out a payment plan in consultation with the production companies for outstanding payments."

Uzalo on SABC1 wraps production on 4th season as three cast members depart; Noxolo Mathula bumped up to principal cast as show adds two new actors.

Uzalo on SABC1 has wrapped production on its 4th season with three cast members who have exited the Durban-filmed series, while two new faces will join the weekday prime time drama series.

The KwaMashu-set show produced by Stained Glass will start its 5th season on SABC1 in February 2019 with Nay Maps (Mxolisi Mdletshe), Nokuthula Mabika (Thobile) and Glen Gabela (the recast Mfundisi Mdletshe) who have exited the show.

For the 5th season of Uzalo, Noxolo Mathula who portrays the character of Lilly is being upgraded from an on-call role to a principal cast member. Uzalo is also adding newcomers Thuthuka Mthembu and Nkanyiso Makhanya.

The production says the changes are part of keeping the show "authentic", and that some existing role "will be amplified".

"Season 4 brought incredible evolution and riveting storylines to our screens, and our incredible cast delivered over and above, every time," says Bongi Ndaba, Uzalo head writer, in a press release.

"We're so grateful for the golden energy and dedication that Nay Maps, Nokuthula Mabika and Glen Gabela brought to Uzalo – they breathed life into their characters and have been a major part of 2018’s success."

"Saying goodbye to these characters and actors is so hard, and we do so by wishing them all the best going forward and have no doubt that they will continue to deliver their magic on our screens."

Mmamitse Thibedi, executive producer for Stained Glass Pictures, says "We have a lot to live up to with season 5, and everyone is amped about the challenge".

"We're certainly excited about what’s in store and promise to keep our viewers glued to their screens. The fifth season will definitely be a fresh and exciting journey for Uzalo."

On 25 September Uzalo set a new South African TV ratings high-water mark of 10.2 million viewers