After weeks of uncertainty and concern among former Muvhango soapie actors and devoted viewers, relief came as SABC 2 and Word of Mouth Pictures announced a thrilling new chapter for the iconic South African television series. The revelation was made during a special event held in Fourways, Johannesburg, over the weekend.
One former actor, speaking anonymously, suggested that the SABC's delay in renewing the show's contract with the producers had led to a halt in the recording of new episodes. He explained, "Episodes need to be recorded at least three to four months in advance. With no new episodes being recorded, the channel resorted to airing old ones. This, along with declining viewership, led to the decision to cancel the show to save costs."
The outcry from the public, who saw the cancellation as a setback for promoting indigenous languages such as Tshivenda on national television, pressured the SABC into renewing the contract. However, Word of Mouth public relations officers Thanduxolo Jindela and Caroline Phalakatshela stated that they had been working behind the scenes to enhance the soapie's storyline. They announced that Muvhango was set to undergo a significant transformation, ushering in a refreshed era for the beloved series.
In a statement released on Monday, Jindela and Phalakatshela reaffirmed their commitment to honouring Tshivenda culture and captivating audiences. "This evolution includes a rebranding of the show, featuring a new logo, a captivating opening sequence, and notably, an infusion of vibrant new characters and compelling storylines," they stated.
Among the exciting announcements was the introduction of a notable new character, Dr. Nonhlanhla Ximba, portrayed by the acclaimed actress Leleti Khumalo. Dr. Ximba's enigmatic presence as a construction mogul is expected to disrupt the familiar landscape of Muvhango, bringing unprecedented intrigue and groundbreaking storytelling.
The new season promises to take viewers on an enthralling journey of authentic African storytelling. "We invite viewers to embark on this exhilarating journey with us as Muvhango unveils its captivating new face and continues to embody the spirit of resilience and renewal that has defined the show's legacy for the past 27 years," the press release reads.
Duma Ndlovu, the executive producer of Muvhango, expressed his enthusiasm for the new direction of the show. "Muvhango Lives On represents not just a new beginning, but a celebration of the show's legacy. We are dedicated to staying true to our roots while embracing change, and we are excited to present our audience with a Muvhango that reflects the rich diversity and compelling narratives of modern South Africa," he said.
Jacqui Hlongwane, acting head of channel at SABC2, also shared her excitement, stating, "As the public broadcaster, SABC2 is thrilled to support Muvhango in its exciting transformation. The show has long been a pillar of our programming, and we eagerly anticipate the infusion of fresh energy and captivating storytelling that Muvhango promises to bring to our viewers."
