The announcement of Muvhango's conclusion after 28 years on air has sent shockwaves through the South African entertainment industry.
The soapie, created by Duma ka Ndlovu, has been a staple of SABC2's programming and a beloved part of television history for almost three decades.
Muvhango made its debut on SABC2 on April 7 1997, bringing to life much-loved characters such as Edward, Catherine, Doobsie, Doris, Chief Azwindini, Thandaza, James, Mulalo, KK and the royal family, all of whom became household names.
As the final broadcast approaches, actors who made a name for themselves on the show are facing uncertainty about their future. Most of the cast have become popular for their stint on the show, and some say they are prepared for the transition.
In August last year, the show was under threat after a drop in viewers from a high of 1.6-million to under 923,000 by the end of 2024.
Cast members were told to treat the season as if it were the last one because they did not know if they were going to get another season.
Recently many actors have decried the lack of opportunities in the industry after falling on hard times.
Many viewers have questioned whether the cast's fate is in the hands of Ndlovu, what the cast members’ contingency plans are, or if this will usher in a new era of storytelling and talent.
This is happening at a time when South African artists, across all disciplines, are struggling to put food on the table and pay medical bills
The longtime soapie is now expected to be replaced by Pimville Queens, which will air from August 11 at 9pm.
But Muvhango was more than just a drama, it was the champion of language, culture, identity and national pride — inspiring, entertaining, educating and uniting audiences across South Africa.
Ndlovu said the programme opened doors for a marginalised community in Limpopo
“Muvhango gave an opportunity to an ignored language that has now become one of the most celebrated languages in South Africa. It has been a privilege and an honour to create moments on television where marginalised languages were at the centre of it all.”
The show's final episode will air at 9pm on August 8.
This is happening at a time when South African artists, across all disciplines, are struggling to put food on the table and pay medical bills. Many actors, musicians, dancers and industry members are barely making ends meet, regardless of their talent and experience.
The collapse of this show is a reflection of the state of this industry and more needs to be done to ensure that the industry is sustainable.
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