The beloved telenovela Umkhokha: The Curse may be facing its final chapter, leaving the future of its cast and crew in jeopardy. According to ZiMoja, produced by industry veteran Duma Ndlovu, the show’s continuation is now uncertain, as reports suggest that Multichoice might not renew its contract.
Reported by ZiMoja, according to sources close to the production, the actors’ current contracts are set to expire in October, yet no negotiations for renewal have taken place. “People are anxious and worried; no one is saying anything,” a source revealed. The uncertainty has left many on edge, especially since several actors relocated to Durban, where the show is filmed, due to its initial success.
“It is such a huge mess because most actors are based in Durban, and there is nothing much happening in Durban. Where are they going to get jobs if the show is really canned?” one source lamented. Another insider added, “Everyone is crossing fingers that it will be renewed for the next season because the show is bringing in good numbers and advertising revenue for the channel.”
According to ZiMoja, the situation is further complicated by reports that Multichoice is developing two new shows—one in IsiZulu and another in IsiXhosa—that are currently in pre-production. According to sources, the IsiXhosa show is set to replace Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, while Umkhokha: The Curse, shot in KwaZulu-Natal, could be replaced by the IsiZulu series.
As the festive season approaches, the potential loss of jobs has left many in the cast and crew feeling vulnerable. “We all know TV is not predictable, but they are gambling with people’s livelihoods. Who is thinking of getting a new job now that we are approaching the festive season?” questioned a source.
Reported by ZiMoja, despite the growing concerns, Mzansi Magic publicist Portia Hlongwane remained tight-lipped when asked about the show’s future, stating only that “Season two is currently on air until episode 260. Nothing has been announced on season three.”
Meanwhile, one heartbroken actor expressed the frustration shared by many on set: “We don’t know what is happening because the show is doing well. We are worried about our wellbeing at this juncture. No one is communicating. People are just coming up with new stories every day on set.”
