Month: August 2024

Hosted by comedian, Mpho Popps and TV presenter, Nomalanga Shozi, the awards ceremony was held at the Heartfelt Arena in Tshwane.

The Skeem Saam cast and crew were unhappy after one of their actors was shown as the winner of the Outstanding Newcomer Award, but it was a mistake.

They kept chanting: “Skeem Saam” and Mpho Popps had to clear the confusion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“There was a clip-on screen but the person who won, which is actress Nefisa Mkhabela is the correct one who was announced. We would like to apologise for the technical glitch,” he said.

The Skeem Saam team were very upset, but their disappointment died when one of their own was awarded the Viewer’s Choice Award in the Best Female Actress category.

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Actor Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Photo by Trevor Kunene
The team went on stage in a large number and celebrated with Lethabo Mekoa.

Crying on stage, Lethabo said: “I would like to thank God for giving me this opportunity today. I’ve been through a lot as young as I am.”

The audience was taken down memory lane with performances by musicians such as Keabetswe “KB” Motsilanyane and Zola 7.

Legendary actor, Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha and filmmaker and producer, Duma Ndlovu were also recognised.

Duma thanked Winnie Ntshaba for founding the awards.

“Looking back to when this started, I don’t think the industry understood what she was trying to do. I think a lot of people thought she was biting what she could chew.

“I think actors appreciate these awards because this is the time they get awards exclusively. You have done well and we give you a big hand,” he said.

Jerry also thanked Winnie.

“Winnie, thank you for being a visionary, for coming up with these awards, to be recognised in your own country. One of the things I thank Winnie for is that people don’t understand how hard acting is,” he said.

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Motlatsi Mafatshe was awarded the Outstanding Lead Actor Award. Photo by Trevor Kunene
Other actors who walked away with awards include Zikhona Sodlaka, who was awarded the Outstanding Lead Actress Award.

“When I take myself to when I was 19 years and I left the Eastern Cape, this is another show for us, a province that has never had a show there but has produced legends and in 2022 we created a soapie,” she said.

Motlatsi Mafatshe from House of Zwide was awarded the Outstanding Lead Actor Award.

“To all the artists follow your dreams. God will make it work. Let’s push passion and let us be professionals at work. This thing of you being superstars and not working doesn’t work,” he said.

Coming Up Next On #etvSmokeAndMirrors
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 96

 

Thandiswa, in a bid to placate Caesar’s extreme reaction to Jaxon’s closing of the depot, concocts a new plan to ensnare Jaxon involving his personal assistant Gugu.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 97
Gugu tells Jaxon she’ll do ‘anything’ to get her paycheck, and he tells her to come to his room. Then she accuses him of rape, and Phakathi arrives at the hotel to arrest him.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 98
Jaxon is only dressed in his underwear when he’s arrested for rape, he was expecting Martha, not Gugu. Jaxon warns Phakathi he’s going to make him pay for arresting him.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 99
Jaxon receives a visit from Caesar, realises who’s behind the rape charge. Mandla is awkward around Philile after an erotic dream, berates himself for his sinfulness.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 100
Jaxon gives in to Caesar’s demand to reopen the depot, but Thandiswa and Caesar encounter a new problem when Gugu abandons their arrangement and refuses to drop the charges.

Actress Sophie Ndaba has once again captured the hearts of her fans, and this time it was at the Royalty Soapie Awards held in Johannesburg. Known for her iconic role in the hit South African soap opera “Generations,” Ndaba has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for years. This latest appearance, however, has sparked a fresh wave of admiration as her stunning look took social media by storm.Nearby concert tickets

 

 

Dressed in a breathtaking red gown that hugged her curves, Sophie Ndaba not only showcased her fashion sense but also exuded confidence and grace on the red carpet. The actress was the epitome of elegance, and as images of her began to circulate online, fans couldn’t resist gushing over her beauty. The striking ensemble accentuated her radiant complexion and showcased her transformation, which has been a topic of conversation among her supporters.

Social media was abuzz with compliments, with many fans expressing their admiration for the star. Comments like “@__ThapeloM” praising her legendary status and suggesting that she deserves her flowers resonated with the general sentiment of appreciation. Another fan, “@Lebona_cabonena,” humorously noted her apparent wellness with the declaration that “she is taking her medication very well now,” eliciting laughter and affirmations of support from others.

Actress Sophie Ndaba looked absolutely gorgeous at the Royalty Soapie Awards last night. pic.twitter.com/fSegytuK7g

— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) August 25, 2024
What makes Sophie Ndaba’s appearance even more special is the journey she has undertaken in recent years. The actress has been open about her struggles, including health issues that she bravely faced and overcame. Her ongoing resilience shines through not just in her personal life but also in her professional endeavors. The positive response from her fans underscores the powerful connection she maintains with her audience—one built on shared admiration and mutual support.

For those who have followed Ndaba’s career, this red carpet moment is more than just a showcase of fashion; it’s a reminder of her enduring legacy in the South African entertainment industry. Her ability to inspire and uplift others through her journey resonates deeply with her followers, further enhancing her status as a beloved figure.

As Sophie Ndaba continues to make waves in the entertainment scene, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for the former “Generations” star. For now, she has certainly left an indelible mark at the Royalty Soapie Awards, reminding everyone that true beauty shines from within, reinforced by passion and unshakeable confidence. With this latest appearance, Sophie Ndaba has not only stolen

Coming Up Next On #SkeemSaam
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 41
Lehasa digs his own grave when he takes the stand. Clement chooses to work with the enemy. Letetswe pushes Charles’ buttons and gets a hot slap.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 42

 

Tbose’s greed may lead to unintended consequences, putting Kwaito in a risky situation. A Grade 10 learner gets rid of the evidence that places him at a crime scene. Nora is on top of the world.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 43
Kwaito fumbles a big presentation while a new addition shakes up the Maputla family. Phomolo reads Lehasa for filth.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 44
Tbose finds a creative way to convince Bra Boikie to reinstate the tender. Babeile is set on twisting the Commander’s arm about his investigation. As the verdict day for Lehasa’s trial looms, tensions run high among people.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 45
The verdict delivers devastating news for Pretty and Lehasa. Toby’s risky actions could leave him and his mother homeless.

Coming Up Next On #HouseOfZwide
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 31
Msizi and a reluctant Faith finally spend time together. He tells her about their mother’s death and is surprised that she didn’t know about it.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 32

 

Isaac catches Msizi scoping out Maria and Mampho’s place, a wily Msizi then uses the opportunity to probe Isaac for more information on Maria and Mampho.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 33
After Nkosi reveals to Ona that the building owner wants a year’s rent upfront which they don’t have, the two decide it might be better if they cease all construction work on the revamp.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 34
After Msizi overhears Nkosi telling Faith that the HOZ collective may not happen because they can’t raise the required money, Msizi then tells Faith, he might have a way to help her and Nkosi.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 35
A shady Msizi reveals that the restaurant he used to run in Mozambique made a ton of money and he’s prepared to use some of it to fund the HOZ revamp in exchange for shares in the company.

Coming Up Next On #etvSmokeAndMirrors
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 96

 

Thandiswa, in a bid to placate Caesar’s extreme reaction to Jaxon’s closing of the depot, concocts a new plan to ensnare Jaxon involving his personal assistant Gugu.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 97
Gugu tells Jaxon she’ll do ‘anything’ to get her paycheck, and he tells her to come to his room. Then she accuses him of rape, and Phakathi arrives at the hotel to arrest him.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 98
Jaxon is only dressed in his underwear when he’s arrested for rape, he was expecting Martha, not Gugu. Jaxon warns Phakathi he’s going to make him pay for arresting him.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 99
Jaxon receives a visit from Caesar, realises who’s behind the rape charge. Mandla is awkward around Philile after an erotic dream, berates himself for his sinfulness.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 100
Jaxon gives in to Caesar’s demand to reopen the depot, but Thandiswa and Caesar encounter a new problem when Gugu abandons their arrangement and refuses to drop the charges.

Coming Up Next On #IsithaTheEnemy
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 86 (331)
An Enemy Within

 

Zandile questions Madvodza about the Ngwenya’s history while they prepare for a press conference.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 87 (332)
We Are All Going To Die Anyway
Rebecca is hit by the reality of her health. If Nka thinks he’s had a bad day, he hasn’t experienced this one.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 88 (333)
Rebecca’s Wishes
The Mabuza household watches Rebs’ will and are stunned by what she left for each of them.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 89 (334)
Man Against Family
Nka knows that he is a changed man. The Gumedes learn some interesting news. Mbuso is left curious about Zandile and Madvodza.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 90 (335)
The Proposal
Chuma and Solomzi find themselves in a sticky situation at the Depot. Thenjiwe receives devastating news while TK has a serious conversation with Thenji.

Winnie Ntshaba of House of Zwide thinks her firing from Generations was a blessing in disguise.The actress who presently plays Faith Zwide in eTv’s serial Generations earned her big break as Khethiwe Buthelezi on Generations.

She portrayed the country girl for over ten years before the production sacked her and her 15 co-stars…Generations 16th.

 

 

 

“I don’t think I would have left the show because fear of the unknown locks you down. But there is so much out there. Ultimately [being fired] was a blessing.”

She graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal with a theater degree in 1997 and received her first TV role as a street youngster in 2002 on Backstage.

Winnie claims that the part had little impact on her life because it lasted barely three months.Her life changed only after she joined Generations and fans remembered her lines ‘forgive me sbali, may I carry my bags?’

“The following day I went to the mall as usual in a taxi and people started pointing at me, saying ‘that’s her’.

“That’s how huge Generations was and it changed my life.”

Winnie joined several shows after the SABC 1 soapie such as Mzansi Magic’s The River, The Herd, Isibaya, Isithembiso.She also started a soapie award show titled The Royalty Soapie Awards in 2014.

“Getting funding has always been a struggle. We always want to do a big thing, and I think eventually we will get there. I dream of a day where we can give prize money because for me the true sense of celebrating someone’s excellence is to give them something of value.”

According to the actress, the awards recognize both those in front of and behind the camera through many technical categories.

“I feel like there is so much that goes around in the making of a show and there are so many people that work tirelessly behind the show that need to be celebrated.

“We want to bring awareness of the careers that are there behind the scene because if someone at home sees ‘art direction’ they are going to ask themselves what do they do.”

As the vibrant South African singer Busiswa Gqulu prepares to make her musical comeback after a year-long hiatus, she reflects on the transformative journey that has shaped her life and artistry. Known for her powerful voice and energetic performances, Busiswa took a step back from releasing music to recalibrate her priorities and focus on her personal well-being.

 

 

 

In a candid revelation, Busiswa shared that her decision to pause was driven by uncertainty about the message she wanted to convey through her music. “I was always in the studio, but I went through a period where I felt like I was not making anything meaningful,” she explained. This introspection led her to prioritize support from her family and friends, which she found crucial during a challenging time in her life.

The past year has not only been about stepping away from the spotlight but also about self-discovery and healing. Busiswa sought therapy and embraced physical fitness as tools for reflection. “I use the gym also as a way to listen to my own thoughts,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of mental health in her journey. Conversations with her son, Kgosi, have also played a vital role in her enlightenment, as their exchanges often surprise and inspire her.

Busiswa admitted that motherhood has brought both joy and challenges. “I went through a lot since Kgosi came onto this earth,” she said, acknowledging the emotional and physical toll of becoming a parent. While she found joy in her role as a mother, she also faced struggles that impacted her creativity. “I haven’t been feeling like making happy music,” she confessed, although she continued to create, grateful for the opportunity to express herself artistically.

Now, as she prepares to return to the music scene, Busiswa feels a renewed sense of happiness and confidence. “But now I’m happier, I’m thinner, I’m sexier,” she declared, reflecting on her journey towards self-acceptance and wellness. The transformation she has undergone since giving birth has not only revitalized her spirit but has also motivated her to pursue fitness for her own well-being.

Busiswa’s story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the importance of taking time for oneself, especially in the fast-paced world of the music industry. As she gears up for her comeback, fans can expect a new chapter in her musical journey—one that is authentic and deeply rooted in her experiences as a mother and an artist.

With her sights set on creating meaningful music that resonates with her audience, Busiswa Gqulu is ready to share her evolved self with the world. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder that sometimes, stepping back is the first step towards a more fulfilling and impactful comeback.

Veteran actor Hlomla Dandala has confirmed he will not return for the next season of Smoke & Mirrors.This news comes from entertainment commentator Phil Mphela, igniting discussions among viewers and industry insiders alike. Dandala joined the cast in Season 2 of the series, stepping into the role of Caesar, previously portrayed by the beloved Zolisa Xaluva.

 

 

 

 

With a career spanning over three decades, Hlomla Dandala is no stranger to the South African entertainment scene. He has made a name for himself with memorable performances in notable productions such as The River, Scandal!, and his early work in Isidingo. However, his recent tenure in Smoke and Mirrors has been met with mixed reviews. Many fans expressed dissatisfaction with Dandala’s portrayal of Caesar, describing his performance as too mild compared to Xaluva’s dynamic interpretation of the character.

The backlash from fans was palpable, with many longing for the return of Zolisa Xaluva, whose powerful performance had set a high bar for the role. Dandala’s attempt to provide a compelling portrayal faced scrutiny, with some viewers feeling he fell short of capturing the essence of Caesar—a character that resonated strongly with the audience during Season 1. The comparisons between the two actors became an enduring theme in discussions about the show, ultimately contributing to Dandala’s decision to step away from the role.

As a performer known for his versatility and charm, Hlomla Dandala undoubtedly faced the daunting challenge of stepping into a well-established character. While he had hoped to bring his own interpretation to Caesar, the overwhelming expectations may have created an impossible situation. The emotional attachment that fans had developed with Xaluva’s portrayal made it challenging for Dandala to forge his own identity in the role.

Recent rumors suggest that Zolisa Xaluva is set to make a triumphant return for Season 3 of Smoke and Mirrors, which has fans buzzing with excitement. Reports from Zimoja indicate that production has reconciled with Xaluva, agreeing to his demands, thus enabling his comeback. This change not only marks a return to a favorite character but also signifies a shift in the soap opera’s direction as it aims to re-engage viewers who may have felt alienated by recent casting decisions.

Hlomla Dandala’s exit from Smoke and Mirrors highlights the challenges that actors face when taking on roles with established legacies. While he has proved his talent in various productions, the universal praise once heeded by viewers for Xaluva’s Caesar was a formidable challenge. As fans prepare for the series’ next chapter with Zolisa Xaluva’s return, it remains to be seen how the show will evolve and address the fanbase’s expectations moving forward.

Social media reacts to Hlomla Dandala’s departure.