The much-anticipated return of the revamped telenovela “Muvhango” on SABC 2 took an unexpected turn, leaving fans disappointed and perplexed. Reported by ZiMoja, instead of airing the newly produced episodes, viewers were met with reruns of old episodes, sparking curiosity and concern among the show’s dedicated audience.
The last fresh episode of the soapie aired on 2 July. Since then, SABC 2 has been replaying older episodes, citing ongoing contract negotiations with the show’s production company, Word of Mouth Pictures, owned by Duma Ndlovu. This unexpected move comes despite the recent launch of the revamped “Muvhango,” which introduced new cast members, including the esteemed actress Leleti Khumalo.
Sources close to the situation revealed that the delay was not due to any fault on the part of “Muvhango.” An insider disclosed, “Actors were shocked when the new episode was not played on Monday as promised. They played an old episode. We did not understand what was happening or what the reason was for not airing the new episodes.” The production company reportedly submitted their material to SABC on time, leaving many puzzled by the broadcaster’s decision.
Another source indicated that the issue lay with the SABC. To manage the situation, the broadcaster allegedly downplayed the incident, attributing the replay of old episodes to scheduling changes due to the Olympics. “If they played the current Olympics, things would have been better. But playing an old episode of ‘Muvhango’ while work was submitted, that was a bit strange,” commented one of the show’s actors.
Thanduxolo Jindela, a spokesperson for Word of Mouth Pictures, distanced the production company from the controversy, stating, “Why don’t you call the SABC since it’s their platform or ask your source what happened?” before abruptly ending the call.
When approached for comment, SABC2 publicist Caroline Phalakatshela confirmed the schedule change due to the Olympics but did not provide a clear reason for airing old episodes instead of the new ones. She stated, “We did inform viewers that due to the Olympics, we will play a new season next week.”
