Johannesburg – The future of popular SABC 1 soap opera, Generations: The Legacy, hangs in the balance as contract negotiations between the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and production company MMV stall. Actors and crew members are in limbo, with production breaks extended indefinitely and concerns mounting over job security and financial stability.
The drama, however, is not new to the set of Generations: The Legacy. Last week, Sunday World reported that 10 workers came forward with allegations of racism, exploitation, and abuse at the hands of Natalie Lundon, the MMSV head of department. They claimed the abuse was blatant, yet management protected her. Ultimately, she got rid of them one by one.
One of the actors, speaking to Sunday World on condition of anonymity, revealed that Generations: The Legacy typically undergoes four production breaks annually, often coinciding with school holidays. This year, however, the routine break has taken an unsettling turn.
“Our production breaks usually coincide with school holidays. So this year we went on break with the hope of returning to work on April 7. However, we received letters informing us to stay at home until further notice," the actor explained.
“They said they are still trying to get a new contract with SABC. We are scared because we don’t know how long that will take or what the future holds for us. We don’t know if we still have jobs or not.”
Another actor confirmed that they had signed new contracts with MMV, but the accompanying letter clarified that they would not be paid during the extended production break.
“It is a scary situation because we don’t know what this means for us and our families. We are obviously frustrated because this delay will affect us financially, yet it’s not our fault. It’s unfair to us,” said the actor, highlighting the growing anxiety among the cast.
The situation appears even more precarious for crew members, who revealed that they had not signed any new contracts before being sent on the extended break.
“We were just sent on holiday without signing contracts. It’s the first time we’ve experienced this. And we don’t know what it means for us as crew members,” said a concerned crew member, underscoring the lack of communication and uncertainty surrounding their employment.
Sunday World has obtained a copy of the letter sent to cast and crew, which sheds light on the situation:
“As many of you know, there is a delay on the part of the SABC with the issuing of the new contract for the next season of Generations: The Legacy.
“Due to circumstances completely beyond our control, and despite our best and ongoing efforts, we are currently in a situation where we have no choice but to extend the production break as of Monday, April 7.
“In other words, we will not resume recording on Monday, April 7. At this point, we cannot say exactly how long we will need to pause production. But we have been given many assurances by the SABC that the contract will definitely be issued. Also that this is being done as quickly as possible.
“Importantly, please note that due to the above, we will not be able to pay you while we are awaiting the new contract. Everyone will still be paid for this week (ending Friday, April 4) as usual. But there will be no payment from Monday, April 7, until we resume production.
“We are fully aware of the effect this temporary disruption has on all of you. And we deeply regret the situation we all find ourselves in. We should be through this difficult time shortly, after which full production will resume as normal.
“Please rest assured that we will send through any updates we receive regarding when production can resume as soon as we have this information. Thank you for your understanding, patience, and cooperation during this challenging time.”
When contacted for comment, Generations: The Legacy’s co-producer, Human Stark, directed all questions to the SABC.
He said: “We can confirm that the independent contractor agreements entered into with the crew already regulate the circumstances explained in the letter. If you would like further clarity on the matter, please contact SABC.”
At the time of publishing, SABC spokesperson Mmoni Ngubane had not responded to requests for comment. Her response will be included in the story once received.
The delay in contract negotiations raises serious questions about the future of Generations: The Legacy, a mainstay of South African television for many years.
