Zenoyise Madikwa

Zenoyise Madikwa

The fans of Muvhango have reacted with shock to news that the popular soapie has been dumped by SABC2.

Some blamed executive producer Duma ka Ndlovu, saying his chopping and changing of characters and pay disputes could have led the SABC to rethink its backing of the soapie.

Yesterday, Sowetan reported that the shooting of South Africa's second biggest soapie has been put on hold following a haggle over a contract that was supposed to have been signed in May.

Sowetan asked for the public's views on the issue.

"It is funny they are telling us about the contract problems now. They should have done this a long time ago. Canning the soapie would be a very big blow to us viewers. These guys must keep their hands off Muvhango," said a visibly worried Muvhango fan, Lebo Mabaso.

"Muvhango is the best local soapie on our television screens at the moment. It is not pretentious and it is rich in culture. It has taught us a thing or two about different South African cultures, especially the Venda culture that we did not know much about."

Another avid viewer, Moratuoa Maphosho, said for a long time people needed something to relate to on TV, and Muvhango was that.

"The storyline is so real and believable. It is educational and the production has opened doors for many up-and-coming actors who would not have even dreamt of acting on TV."

Boitumelo Bacela said though she did not watch the show all the time the possibility of its canning left a bitter taste in her mouth. "We have read about the shenanigans behind the cameras, but I am sure they can be sorted out.

"Surely Muvhango is bigger than a few people. SABC must think about its viewers."

Aron Mzim said:."Muvhango is the best thing ever. Canning it would take us backwards, but things have to change behind the scenes. Duma should manage the project better. Changing actors is another downfall for the show."

Vusi Majola said he was unhappy about the news but said it was a lesson to all black people to learn to manage things well.

"Why is it that everything a black person does always has problems? Why can't we manage things well? Duma Ndlovu and the whole leadership must leave. They are the problem."

Professor Thembinkosi Nkosi said he did not see any substance in Muvhango. "That soapie is a waste of money. The storyline is boring. The actors are amateurs."

Patrick Croucamp shares the same sentiments. "This soapie must be taken off. It has lowered the standards of the local content. The quality of acting is so bad that watching the soapie for five minutes is too much."

Ndlovu said he was still in negotiations with the SABC2 for renewal of the contract.

In a statement issued by the SABC yesterday, Vuyo Mthembu said the SABC has been in negotiations with Word of Mouth to produce the next series for the past few months, and all necessary documentation for contracting is in place.

"Word of Mouth has in their possession a letter of intent to produce a further three years worth of Muvhango for SABC2 as this a flagship property for the channel."