In a dramatic turn of events, the cast and crew of BET’s hit show Queendom have halted production, citing non-payment of salaries for the past two months. The situation, already tense, has boiled over, leaving fans wondering about the future of their beloved series.
Reported by ZiMoja, the dedicated actors and crew members of Queendom have been working tirelessly, shooting scenes from dawn until dusk, and memorising intricate scripts, only to find their efforts unrewarded. Despite their relentless commitment, the staff has not received their paychecks from Clive Morris Productions for an extended period.
In a collective show of defiance, the team has downed tools, refusing to continue with production until their dues are settled. The actors’ union and various industry insiders are backing their stand, emphasising the importance of timely payments in maintaining the integrity and morale of the workforce.
Messages shared by the production’s founder, Clive Morris, reveal the company is scrambling to secure funds to clear the outstanding debts. “What I can tell you is that we are not sitting on the money and deciding not to pay people; we are actively working non-stop to get the funding to pay everyone,” Clive wrote. However, this assurance has done little to pacify the frustrated cast and crew.
“We love Clive, but he has overdone it this time,” one actor confided to ZiMoja. “How many times do we have to go to the media or keep quiet?” The sentiment among the staff is one of betrayal and exhaustion, with many questioning the sustainability of their current working conditions.
The production, featuring top-tier actors like Linda Mtoba, Samkelo Ndlovu, and Hamilton Dlamini, has been put on hold indefinitely. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the departure of seasoned actors Siyabonga Twala and Sindi Dlathu, who have reportedly quit due to the non-payment issues. “They have every right to do so,” a source close to the production stated. “You are not dealing with upcoming talent who are looking for exposure.”
Efforts to reach Clive Morris for further comment have been unsuccessful, with calls, emails, and messages going unanswered. Executive Producer Dominic Gumede offered a terse response, saying, “I have nothing to say. I have said enough.”
CASTING NEWS:
Sindi Dlathu leaves Queendom
Dlathu has decided to end her journey on the embattled BET telenovela, amid production financial issues.
The SAFTAs record holder will be joining etv’s latest telenovela, Isiphetho. #KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/2OtLO3Uf8C
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) August 7, 2024
