Frustration Mounts as Clive Morris Productions Fails to Pay Cast and Crew

Actors and crew are at their breaking point with frustration as Clive Morris Productions fails once again to compensate them, while Clive Morris allegedly enjoys overseas vacations. According to ZiMoja, the cast and crew of Queendom and the new Showmax drama Empini are facing financial strain due to delayed payments.

In April, ZiMoja reported that the cast and crew of Queendom,  featuring stars like Linda Mtoba, Samkelo Ndlovu, Hamilton Dlamini, Siyabonga Twala, and Sindi Dlathu, had not been paid. This same issue has now extended to Empini. Two furious staff members expressed their discontent, stating, “Imagine watching yourself on screen while broke!” They added, “Clive was in Greece, Spain, and now he is in Israel with his family. Zero consideration about what our families are going through. In April, we ended up getting paid very late and we were up to our necks in debt by the time we received the money; debit orders late, insurance, life covers, etc.”

An actor from one of the productions highlighted the struggle, saying, “We would understand if we had other streams of income, but how do we do that when we are always on set, and by the time we go home, we are exhausted?”

ZiMoja reached out to Monde Twala, Senior Vice President & GM – Paramount Africa & Lead BET International, where Queendom is currently airing. Twala acknowledged the issue, stating, “BET has recently been made aware of Clive Morris Productions’ delayed payments to the cast and crew of Queendom.  We have engaged Clive Morris Productions to mitigate delayed payments to the esteemed cast and crew, and swiftly resolve this matter.”

Executive producer Khayelihle Dominique Gumede, currently on medical leave, had previously explained to ZiMoja that financial issues were being addressed. “It’s a cost timing issue, but the production needs to just match expenses. We are in conversation with the client, and we are trying to communicate robustly. But there is also a sense that one is resolving the problem as easily as possible,” said Khayelihle.

This isn’t the first time Clive Morris Productions has faced backlash for delayed payments. During the December holiday season, the company was criticised for similar issues with The Estate  and Isono. Clive Morris himself could not be reached for comment.

The ongoing payment delays have left many in the industry questioning the company’s management and prioritisation of their financial responsibilities.