Johannesburg – Could one of South Africa's longest-running soap operas be facing the axe? Reports are circulating that the SABC has signed a deal with Bakwena Productions for a new show, tentatively titled Pimville Queens, which is slated to replace Muvhango in its coveted 9.30pm weekday timeslot on SABC2.
While the SABC remains tight-lipped about the future of Muvhango, sources close to the production of Pimville Queens have confirmed that contracts have been signed and that the new show is definitely happening. The production is being spearheaded by Kagiso Modupe and Rashaka "Rush" Moufhe, along with his wife, Brenda Mukwevho, under their Bakwena Productions banner.
"It’s going to replace Muvhango. They called people about the show in December, and it’s an exciting time for them," a source revealed.
Another source added that while shooting was initially scheduled to begin soon, the SABC has reportedly requested some script revisions. "Shooting was supposed to start soon, but the SABC reportedly wanted them to rework the scripts. They also need to fix some things, but it’s set and it’s definitely happening.”
The news has understandably sparked anxiety amongst the cast and crew of Muvhango, which has been a fixture on South African television screens for over two decades. Despite the uncertainty, a source close to Muvhango expressed hope that the show's contract might still be renewed.
"They know this happens every year, but the contract always gets renewed. They are keeping their hopes high, thinking it will happen soon, and they will still be employed,” the source said, highlighting the annual uncertainty that surrounds the show's renewal.
When contacted for comment, Bakwena Productions managing director and executive producer Rashaka "Rush" Moufhe redirected all enquiries to the public broadcaster. “I can’t comment on that. Please, forward queries to the SABC,” he said.
SABC Head of Communications Mmoni Ngubane neither confirmed nor denied the existence of the new show. However, she did acknowledge that programming changes were on the horizon for SABC2.
“We can confirm that SABC2 is making changes to its programming, and the channel will announce these and new shows in line with its usual processes in due time,” said Ngubane, offering a carefully worded statement that neither confirms nor denies the impending change.
Rumours of Muvhango's cancellation first surfaced in February, prompting the SABC to issue a statement regarding the show's future.
"The SABC can confirm that only one season of Muvhango is currently contracted, and the current contract is set to end on 31 July 2025. The SABC cannot comment on the future of the programme at this stage,” Ngubane said at the time, leaving the show's fate hanging in the balance.
The potential replacement of Muvhango with Pimville Queens marks a significant shift in SABC2's programming strategy. While details about Pimville Queens remain scarce, the show is expected to offer a fresh perspective and cater to a diverse audience. The SABC's decision to commission the new show reflects its commitment to providing viewers with engaging and relevant content.
However, the move also raises questions about the future of local productions and the challenges faced by long-running shows in maintaining their relevance in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The South African television industry is fiercely competitive, with new shows constantly vying for viewers' attention.
The fate of Muvhango remains uncertain, and fans of the show are anxiously awaiting an official announcement from the SABC. Whether Muvhango will continue to grace our screens or whether Pimville Queens will take its place remains to be seen.
