Recap To The Week: SABC Unveils A Slate Of Content For Their Channels In The Coming Months Including Wheel Of Fortune SA And Winnie Mandela Doccie In Partnership With Netflix

Not long ago, it was reported that both BBC Studios and SABC had formed a content new deal which would see several content from the BBC fold under two hour block on SABC 3. Prior to this, SABC held a content showcase unveiling several content in the pipeline. 

For SABC 1, they'll be partnering up with Netflix SA on two doccies, The Trials of Winnie Mandela and Just call me Arch. These will be based on the lives of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu - no dates have been shared as yet.

Netflix also scooped up The Bold And The Beautiful after the public broadcaster couldn't afford to keep it on air and rivals such as Vodacom Video Play and EVA channel on DStv shuttered. 

Other projects in development for SABC 1 include Sjava's 1 Man Show (15 June), Breaking Down Borders (3 July) and Roxic (8 October). Returning shows include Hotspot Seli (formerly Selimathunzi, 4 July) and The Voice South Africa (28 September).

For SABC 2 and SABC 3, the public broadcaster will be expanding the reality lineup with Wheel Of Fortune SA, Raid The Cage (27 May), Crown Chasers (22 June), Big Day For 2K (June) and Wife Swap SA (1 July) and an untitled popular American game show. 

Returning shows on the channel include The Masked Singer SA (13 April), Taste Masters (23 April) and former e.tv program SA's Got Talent (5 June), Miss SA 2024 (11 August) and Tropika Island Of Treasure (21 September).

This comes after the SABC had axed 7de Laan after 23 years on air with the public broadcaster moving further Afrikaans programs such as 50/50 and Voetspore to SABC 3. This had caused a rift with consumers and the public broadcaster had addressed the matter.

David Makubyane, head of SABC channels, said changes like Skeem Saam moving to a later timeslot on SABC1 and Afrikaans content shunted from SABC2 to SABC3 is because of changing content consumption patterns and the entrance of multiple video streaming services like Showmax, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+.

"We're not blind to the plethora of competitors and content providers that have come into the space, but we stand firm and believe that the new content offering that we are going to showcase and give to our viewers will really put us into a competitive edge."

Recap To Last Month: SABC 3 Reaches 2 Million Households Becoming The Second Most Watched Channel By The Public Broadcaster By February 2024 Behind SABC 1

SABC 3 is a free-to-air channel operated by the public broadcaster catering to audiences with content in English and Afrikaans. It was also the least watched channel behind SABC 1 and SABC 2 this was before TAMS ratings from the last month had been revealed.

Thanks to AFCON, SABC 3 has managed to lure 2 million households after a decade on air surpassing SABC 2 where their most watched title Muvhango only lured just half of AFCON's figure.

Amidst reports of ratings decline for Deal Or No Deal SA and Skeem Saam, this is something should have been branding a "historical figure" from last month which it didn't. SABC 3 was only able to obtain 1.5 million viewers by 2014 versus 600,000 by 2024.

This goes to show the lack of attention the public broadcaster has for their brands. As seen below are the ratings figures and if you look carefully AFCON has more viewers on SABC 3 than any of the sports viewed on their most watched channel, SABC 1.

SABC 3 is operating on a loss and this figure would have helped lure in revenue. As to whether, the public broadcaster has caught on to this "historical figure" it has yet to be seen as this type of figures would have helped build the viewership for their other titles.

Ratings Flop: Deal Or No Deal Loses 1.5 Million Viewers Following Move To SABC 2

During the week, it was reported that Skeem Saam had lost 1.3 million viewers following its move from 18:30 to 19:30 on SABC 1. The public broadcaster regards it as "a massive historical ratings figure" after its viewership went from 4.3 million to 3.2 million.

This comes after repeats of Vetkoekpaleis caused SABC 2 to lose 300,000 viewers following the cancellation of 7de Laan. With eMedia Investments ramping up a rival offering with 90 Minutes Of Afrikaans that has lured almost 2 million viewers. 

According to sources, the newly relaunched game show Deal Or No Deal SA had lost 1.5 million viewers following its move to SABC 2. After pulling close to 2 million viewers on SABC 1 last month had dropped to just 400,000 viewers in March.

The SABC was warned prior to the move of Afrikaans programs from SABC 2 to SABC 3. That further changes to the lineup would lead to a decline in consumption for their channels as sources await details of the ratings of Nuus on SABC 3.

With the decline in consumption, it is evident here that consumers were accustomed to the previous setup of these programs. If the public broadcaster were hoping for that "historical figure" they could tried marketing these changes in between shows.

Ratings Flop: Skeem Saam Loses 1.3 Million Viewers In New Timeslot On SABC 1

Last year, it was reported that the public broadcaster would be moving Skeem Saam to a new timeslot in March. Accompanied by the move of Afrikaans programs to SABC 3 as part of a brand restructure with Vetkoekpaleis remaining on SABC 2.

The public broadcaster was warned by several consumers over the decline in consumption for their offering. As anticipated, Skeem Saam experienced a ratings drop with 1.3 million viewers alongside its former timeslot with no word on SABC 2 or SABC 3.

Considering these channels already carry the least amount of audiences we presume the latter experienced a massive drop far worse than SABC 1. With Vetkoekpaleis already losing viewers on a monthly basis the move of its tribal offering with create further distance.

In light of this argument, the public broadcaster is celebrating the 3 million views instead of trying to recover the lost numbers. Now consumers will flee to e.tv for Scandal or Mzansi Magic for My Brother's Keeper.

Below is a press statement by the SABC 

SABC1 is excited to share that the daily drama Skeem Saam, produced by Peu Communications, achieved a massive historical audience rating of over 3.2 million viewers last night, 4 March 2024 when the popular drama debuted in the new timeslot of 19:30.

The move to a new timeslot was announced by the channel in January 2024, and the change kicked off last night with plots ranging from Leeto discovering that his friend Bullet has been lying to him, Jacobeth accusing Magongwa of witchcraft after being hit by a truck in front of his gate and Sthoko offering to cook dinner for Babeile and Lewatle, is there a new romance on the card in Turfloop?

Skeem Saam promises to continue delivering high quality and intriguing storylines, introducing a new face in April, but the viewers will have to wait and see who joins the Skeem Saam family next. The battle between Lehasa and Khwezi intensifies and there is hope for Pretty as she might have found the perfect firm to finish her articles.

“As the Public Broadcaster we wanted to make sure that we align with the audiences and to give them what they have asked for. We are proud of the performance of the first night and are looking forward to more highlights and wins with the Skeem Saam move. Thank you to the SABC1 audiences for walking the journey with us!” – SABC1 Channel Head – Ofentse Thinane.

‘Angeke Baskone’ with Skeem Saam at 19:30 weekdays, only on SABC1 

News Shorts: A Rebroadcast Of My Identity And Along Came Love Launches On Star Life And TLNovelas Respectively, Skeem Saam On SABC 1 To Take On e.tv's Scandal This March And Warner Bros. Discovery EMEA Acquired Zig & Sharko Season 4 For Cartoonito

My Identity resurfaces on Star Life

The series explores the controversial life story of a child, Avni Ayesha, born out of wedlock. She is uncomfortable bearing the illegitimate identity that society has painted on her. As a result, Avni develops a strong determination to fight back and does not stop in her adulthood.

It will return to Star Life from 30 January replacing Sacred Relationships.

TLNovelas joins the snooze train with Along Came Love

After being deported and her father died, Luciana decides to return and meet again with the only family she has left: her mother and brother. That is why she travels to the US and shows up at the vineyard where both have worked for the past years, but when she arrives there and meets David, the landowner, she also bumps into an unexpected thing: love.

It will return to TLNovelas from 26 February replacing The Stepmother. This would serve as the first rebroadcast to have aired on the channel since Head Over Heels in 2022 so the channel is now rivalling Telemundo with their repeat padded offering.

Skeem Saam changing timeslots

For years, the SABC1 audience has made a plea, requesting to change the Skeem Saam timeslot, stating that the show timeslot is too early for some as the show broadcasts during the travelling time for a lot of the viewers.

The decision to move Skeem Saam to 19:30 is in line with SABC Video Entertainment's strategy to amplify its primetime local drama offering to its viewers from 19:30 to 21:30 with SABC1s Skeem Saam, Generations: The Legacy, Uzalo and SABC2s Muvhango.

For SABC1, we see this as an opportunity to make the channel edgier and braver and adapt to the audience's needs. The world of television is an exciting platform where we should not be afraid to adapt while upholding our responsibility to shape the youth and societal roles.

Zig & Sharko returns to Cartoonito

WBD (France, Africa), DR TV (Denmark), NRK Super (Norway), Markiza (Slovakia) and ERT (Greece) have bought Zig & Sharko season four (which premiered last fall on French broadcaster Gulli) to begin airing during Q2 to Q4 of this year. And season one is going to K+ Vietnam and Media Prima Malaysia.

Zig & Sharko launched in 2010 and revolves around a hyena’s endless attempts to capture a mermaid who is under the protection of a great white shark. 

The show is performing well on Netflix, according to an engagement report released by the streamer last month. Seasons one and two of Zig & Sharko racked up 40 million hours of viewing time in the first half of 2023 on the platform. 

Everyday Novelas Shorts: Skeem Saam Undergoing Timeslot Changes On SABC 1, Ratings Flop Nikiwe To End With 1 Season On e.tv, eExtra And Star Life To Hit A New Low With Respective Rebroadcast Of Weaving A Tale Of Love And The Evil Eye

Skeem Saam is being repositioned

Entertainment commentator, Mlu reports that the SABC1 soapie, Skeem Saam will be changed from 18:30 slot to 19:30 from 2024.

The soapie will be competing with e.tv’s most-watched soapie Scandal!, and Mzansi Magic’s latest telenovela, My Brother’s Keeper.

Viewers of the youth soapie are concerned the show will lose viewers as Scandal! owns the timeslot with an average of 5 million viewers per month and continuously changes storylines.

A fan-favourite is coming back to Star Life

The Evil Eye follows Mohana, a 250-year-old Daayan, lives off of humans' life-force to stay young. However, when she sets her evil eye on the Rathod family, trouble and misfortune follow them everywhere. It dwells on family, drama, romance, supernatural and horror.

It will broadcast on 18 December replacing Mismatched.

Nikiwe is getting canned on e.tv

"The show launched in April 2023 and filled the 18:30 slot. Unfortunately, the show has not continued to deliver anticipated ratings. The channel continually reviews programmes and storylines to ensure we give our viewers the best local entertainment. Further information regarding the replacement show will be shared soon."

It lost 500,000 viewers just a month after its debut.

Nikiwe which will end sometime in early 2024 on e.tv and its streaming service eVOD also starred Muzi Mthabela, Clementine Mosimane, Kenneth Nkosi and Israel Matseke Zulu.

eExtra is cutting down on new programs

A few months ago, eExtra in a bizarre twist added a primetime repeat of Annekan Die Swa Kry at 17:05 which comes 5 minute after it airs on e.tv. Now it will be airing a rebroadcast to one of their most recent shows Weaving A Tale Of Love from Wednesday 20 December.

The last time this happened was with the Zee TV line-up viewed on weekday afternoons and this lasted about a year before adding new episodes of Surrender In Love and Twist Of Fate. Now the channel appears to be following a similar route with the Asian line-up.

Discussion: Could SABC Look Into Closing A Few Channels??? As Plans Are Underway To Cut Back On Costs + 7de Laan Could Go Dark By Next Month Abruptly As SABC Is Cash Strapped

Could SABC look into reducing their portfolio?

During the week, it was learnt that 7de Laan would pause production and this was after SABC had been piling up its debt for the soon-to-be-axed Afrikaans drama. The public broadcaster not struggling to obtain income through load shedding and the reduction of analogue is looking to axe more content.

Not long ago, it was discovered that uBettina Wethu would be next victim. Unlike 7de Laan, uBettina Wethu has seen a decline in viewership that eMedia Investments was able to rescue the drama with a fourth season awaiting release on their linear platforms.

Another would be sporting rights in which the public broadcaster failed to obtain rights to the T-20 and also couldn't come to an agreement with SuperSport for the Rugby World Cup.

With the public broadcaster relying on peanuts to get on by at this point perhaps a restructure to their local portfolio is needed. For several decades, they had been producing content for SABC 1-3 while as supplying SABC Sport and Education perhaps a reduction to their local offering would do them good.

Instead of prioritising 3 channels, maybe the public broadcaster could put all their money on SABC 1 and use SABC+ to substitute the other two channels. SABC 1 remains as the most watched free-to-view channel in the market while the other had seen major declines.

The public broadcaster is anticipated to lose viewers once 7de Laan departs on SABC 2. Perhaps a merger between SABC 2 and SABC 3 would do them good. One thing I've seen from their competitors is the growth in dubs you barely get that much with the SABC.

I'm not saying SABC 2 would be exactly like Telemundo/Zee World but something similar to eXposed/eExtra which too has its lineup of international dramas with local elements such as Die Kontrak, SterStatus and Ouma Sarie all of which are folded under the Kuiertyd block.

SABC 3 despite not getting as much viewers as SABC 1 or 2 has more viewers than most of the public broadcaster's DTT offering such as SABC Education, SABC eKhaya and SABC News. Maybe the channel could serve as an Encore station for their past programming.

Another could be exploring a potential sell of their channels, the idea would be similar to Disney that the public broadcaster maintains majority stake and this other party manage the content with the public broadcaster in charge of marketing this content to consumers.

7de Laan is under hot water

As mentioned earlier, SABC had decided to axe the longest running Afrikaans soap on SABC 2 as they can't afford the expenses supplied to the production crew for further episodes. With the last episode initially set for December 26, 2023 the series is likely to go off air much earlier.

According to sources, the SABC only contracted Danie Odendaal Productions to produce 7de Laan episodes until 24 October, although plans were to keep the show running until 26 December as mentioned. The soap faces a chance of being cancelled by next month and not December as advised.

That is unless SABC doesn't find the necessary funds to keep the show on air and crew involved in production of the show were informed about this and had since then gone on to film other projects so should the SABC find something it would be impossible to film these episodes.

Leading to further speculation that the SABC may not get the remaining 45 episodes of the show but something far less than that if none at all. Ideally, 7de Laan could as well end with a two part feature film which broadcast for an hour or two and not the usual 21 minutes as seen with the finale of Showtime's Ray Donovan.

Development Alert: uBettina Wethu Cancelled After 3 Seasons On SABC 1, Revived For A Season 4 On e.tv And VIU

A few months ago, it was learnt by the public broadcaster that 7de Laan would end their 26 year run on SABC 2 with the last episode slated for 26 December 2023. Despite being one of the few shows reel in a million viewers SABC can't afford to keep it on the air.

It was also learnt that the public broadcaster that more shows (including ones as popular as 7de Laan) would get the boot. As seen this various media outlets, uBettina Wethu will be ending it's run on SABC 1 with a fourth season slated for e.tv in the coming week.

Based on the Colombian drama Betty Y Soy, uBettina Wethu followed a naïve rural girl who gets a job working for one of Johannesburg's most eligible bachelors. Determined to take charge of her life, she embraces strategic decision-making, self-discovery, and personal growth.

The series became a rating success on SABC 1 but amidst its debut on e.tv, the viewership began to plunge and following e.tv's induction the show is nowhere to be seen on TAMS top 20 likely due to its telecast on SABC 1 which kind of puts the show in a precarious position.

Seeing as the show would depart on SABC 1 and e.tv had spent most of the year rehashing past episodes. Could the fourth season be its last as not a lot of marketing being poured into this show and most consumers would probably think that e.tv is rehashing it for the rest of 2023.

Now that we know that uBettina Wethu was the next program by the public broadcaster to get the boot. Could Takalani Sesame be next as eMedia Investments had scooped it up for their linear platforms during the year and the public broadcaster is reviewing each asset.

Recap To The Year: SABC Is Looking For Long-Form Dramas To Replace 7de Laan And Likely Cancelled The Estate And Possible Skeem Saam, Generations: The Legacy Or Uzalo

During the week, it was learnt by staff and crew that the SABC had cancelled 7de Laan after its 23 year run on SABC 2 with the last episode set to be broadcast on 26 December 2023. No reason was given for the cancellation but sources believe it could be financial constraints.

7de Laan was first broadcast on 4 April 2000 - initially with only one episode a week before it grew to five days a week - making household names of numerous actors and their characters who inhabited the fictional Hillside suburb in Johannesburg.

Created as a stand-in for the eclectic real-life Melville in Johannesburg, the show spawned roadshows and cookbooks over the past two decades as South Africans started quoting some of the characters' sayings, like Oubaas' malapropisms.

Lala Tuku, SABC head of content for video entertainment, says, "The SABC is proud to have worked with Danie Odendaal Productions and been part of the journey leading and producing the best Afrikaans soapie on local television for SABC 2. 7de Laan has penetrated the hearts of millions of South Africans.

"After more than two decades on air, the award-winning 7de Laan leaves a lasting imprint on the SA television landscape. SABC wishes all the dedicated and talented cast and crew of 7de Laan all the best in their future endeavours".

Few months ago, it was reported that The Estate another local program by the public broadcaster currently seen on SABC 3 would go on production break with sources believing it will be likely cancelled as they source out long form series for all three channels.

SABC 1 is looking for a youth oriented show likely under SABC Education and similar to MTV Shuga, Skeem Saam and Degrassi will focus on female characters, gay characters and disabled characters. If anything could it be possible that Skeem Saam and Uzalo will get the boot if not Generations: The Legacy.

Despite Uzalo and Skeem Saam garnering traction as seen with 7de Laan, the public broadcaster has been slow on commissions likely due to financial constraints. In 2021, Uzalo was renewed for another two years (through 2023) with Skeem Saam and Generations to be carried through 2024.

Another thing would be scheduling conflicts, with e.tv and Mzansi Magic ramping up a similar offering and also the existing Generations: The Legacy, Skeem Saam and Uzalo. This series wouldn't have much exposure so it would make sense to scrap one of three in order to make space for this series.

SABC 2 is looking for a new family drama centred around hope of course not much details is shared about the type of show except they're looking at concepts and ideas that broaden and celebrate the South African family in the context of home, society, and workplace. This could be the series that is set to replace 7de Laan but for all we know it cater to audiences of Muvhango.

SABC 3 is looking for high end drama series similar to Backstage or Isidingo might be replacing The Estate. The series should explore the impact of this seismic shift in society on the individual, the family, community, and institutions at large.

The teams are working tirelessly and diligently to finalise the process and provide feedback to all producers as soon as possible," says the SABC". The video entertainment team has already begun the pitching and look forward to engaging with more producers as the process unfolds.

Development Alert: The Perfect Picture Moves From SABC 1 To e.tv For A Season 2

The Perfect Picture is a nine-part reality series where ten celebrities with a passion for photography compete against each other to show they have what it takes to step away from the spotlight and move behind the camera! Do they have the best eye for a great picture? The celebs must use their technical and creative skills to show they can take the perfect shot. 

It features Anele Zondo, Cristall Kay, Ivan Roux, Gugu Kathi, Jonathan Boynton-Lee, Lasizwe Dambuza, Luyanda Mzazi, Nomvelo Makhanya and Tshego Koke.

The YouTube original had its entire first season broadcast on SABC 1 and for some reason if not budget cuts and successors like Skeem Saam. the second season will move to e.tv with repeats on eReality. Not that I've heard of the show but this move could give it exposure.

With so much currently seen on SABC 1, it's hard for a program such as The Perfect Picture to consume much viewers I mean Uzalo and Skeem Saam are in the 5 million area while the recent addition Deal Or No Deal SA can pull almost half of that viewership.

The Perfect Picture airs every Sunday from 23 July on e.tv at 5PM and repeats on eReality everyday at 5:30PM.

Important Notice: Muvhango Rebroadcasts Stop Airing On SABC 1, To Be Replaced By The Estate

During the month, SABC 2 became the first channel which saw an adjustment to their daytime offering which included the axing of daytime rebroadcasts of Skeem Saam and Generations: The Legacy as the public broadcaster is looking to restructure rebroadcasts.

Interesting to note, 7de Laan was silently removed from the daytime schedule of SABC 3 but Generations: The Legacy remains onboard. No clue if that will be phased out in the process considering the upcoming schedule adjustment awaiting viewers on SABC 1.

Unlike SABC 2, the only adjustment coming to SABC 1 is for the daytime repeat of Muvhango. From the 1st of May, rebroadcasts of SABC 3's The Estate will replace Muvhango when the public broadcaster clearly stated these content would be seen on their respective brand.

Similar to SABC eKhaya's failed launch in April, could it be possible that the public broadcaster got cold feet on the idea of scrapping all these repeats so they're just opting to minimise the offering which include explain the induction of The Estate and demise of Muvhango.

There's chances that The Estate is just a placeholder for another show but why replace Muvhango with another repeat if plans were underway to get another program onboard it would make more sense to keep the current show onboard.

If I had to guess The Estate was brought back due to low viewership for which Muvhango had no trouble with while broadcasting on SABC 2 as it remains the channel's most watched show and who can blame the public broadcaster for going back on their word.

When rebroadcasts of The Estate rolled out on the channel in 2021 it managed to pull close to 2 million households and became the top 10 show on SABC 1. If anything, SABC 1 helped consumers express a bit of interest in SABC 3 especially with the star attraction.

SABC 1-3, e.tv And DStv TV Ratings For April 2023

SABC 1

Notes:
- Deal Or No Deal and Zahara: As I Rise are currently sitting in the top 20.
- Uzalo rebroadcasts occupy the top 10 section of the channel.
- News occupies the top 5 section of the channel.

SABC 2

Notes:
- 7de Laan rebroadcasts debut in the Top 20.
- The Estate rebroadcasts debut in the Top 10.
- Monk debuts in the Top 20.

SABC 3

Notes:
- Sports occupies the top 10 section of the channel including top spot.
- The Estate rebroadcasts are currently the top 10 section of the channel.
- The Great Elephant Tale is the only documentary charting in March.

e.tv

Notes:
- Durban Gen dethroned by eVOD original Abafana Ababi and repeats like Mr. Bones.
- eKasi: Our Stories debuts in the top 20.
- The Goldbergs reenters the top 20.

DStv

Notes:
- Moja Love occupies the top 10 section.
- Big Brother Titans: Daily Shows debut in the top 30.
- Mzansi Bioskop is the only brand sitting outside the top 10.

Recap To The Decade: SABC Encore Revival Is Still In Development For The Openview Platform

SABC is gearing up for the launch of their second news channel, SABC eKhaya. It will serve as the 7th TV channel by the public broadcaster and it will also be a regional spinoff to the current SABC News brand viewed on MultiChoice's DStv, SABC's DTT and SABC+.

It will debut in the second quarter of the year exclusively on SABC's DTT and SABC+ offering news in all 11 South African languages. A format which was once seen on the current SABC News but abandoned following the brand's expansion to the rest of Africa.

As seen these past years, SABC has been behind on expanding their linear presence. In 2021, they formalised a partnership with eMedia Investments for 3 additional channels including SABC Sport and now we are in 2023 and we're still awaiting updates on the 2 channels.

From what was gathered, these two channels would leverage content from SABC's archives and just like SABC Sport. The plan was to offer something unique and not available on SABC 1-3 as more households tune into these stations and their content.

Although, we have yet to get an update on the supposed channels. SABC eKhaya isn't the only channel the public broadcaster might be looking to introduce in the coming future but likely a revival to the controversial SABC Encore now referred to Intelsat as SABC 1.

For almost 2 years, the public broadcaster had been working on this supposed channel under SABC Entertainment, SABC Children and SABC Encore. What had me more convinced about Encore was the time since it left DStv which is when these tests were underway.

One of the brand names, SABC Entertainment was initially meant to be the name for SABC Encore before those plans were scrapped while as the connection with SABC Children may have to do with the fact that both channels exist to leverage from SABC 1-3.

The public broadcaster had marketed SABC Encore on numerous occasions particularly for live matches or memorial services alongside talked on a revival. On top of that, SABC 1 had been spotted with the SABC Encore tag.

If anything, I do wonder how this brand would be any different to the version viewed on DStv. The channel was opened on numerous occasions for rebroadcasts of live matches on top of that memorial service and with SABC restructuring repeats on SABC 1-3.

It wouldn't be shocking if SABC Encore returned in a similar form to M-Net's SWITCH channels or eMedia's Power UP as SABC 1-3 won't be leveraging repeats from the other. Considering it was somewhat relevant, I can see the 80s/90s version of the channel remain intact.

Recap To The Decade: SABC Looking To Launch A Second Sports Channel And Reduce Sports Offering On SABC 1-3

eMedia Investments in partnership with the public broadcaster expanded their agreement in 2021 to include more content from the SABC on the Openview platform. SABC Sport serves as the only additional channel currently ranks as the top 10 watched channels.

Amidst that success, SABC had suggested the idea of launching a second sports channel which too would carry it's own content. As of this moment, it only remains a dream but considering they're launching another news channel - anything goes at this point.

From what was mentioned decades ago by the public broadcaster when implementing DTT. The idea for SABC Sport was not only to give consumers a strong competitor to SuperSport but to also lessen the blows of SABC 1-3's primetime offering.

In a briefing, they blamed the government's failed attempts at eradicating analogue signals that the SABC had to stay behind while eMedia Investments launched their own DTT platform which currently serves 3 million households in South Africa.

SuperSport limits some of their sporting rights to DStv, SABC's DTT and SABC+ thus causing some conflict amongst SABC 1-3 with the current SABC Sport channel as they have to exclude certain programs in order to cater for the consumers who can view them.

Analogue TV is said to be phased out in the coming future not putting my hopes on March 2023 and the public broadcaster will be undergoing even more changes particularly with SABC 1-3 which will have their primary shows airing on their respective brands.

Sports in this case hasn't been discussed in terms of phasing out I mean it's still in talks but no timeframe was given which kind of begs the question as to what happens the day SABC 1-3 limit the access.

Several DStv particularly Access and Easyview alongside StarSat rely on these channels and not much alternatives are available. As for Openview, SABC Sport is a wreck on top of limited alternatives there's repeats hovered inbetween.

Getting back to the topic of the second sports channel, is it possible they'll use this channel perhaps to remove the burden of primetime on SABC 1-3 and seeing as SuperSport controls part of their lineup. What if this sports channel didn't cater to the likes of Openview.

Major Development Alert (Not April Fools): Takalani Sesame + uBettina Wethu + Housewives + Nikiwe + Ebumnyameni (RUMOUR) Coming Soon To e.tv

In 2021, SABC and eMedia Investments expanded their partnership to include SABC's 19 radio stations and the addition of SABC Sport which currently serves as the top 10 channels on Openview. It's clear now that the red brand had more up their sleeves aside from channels.

As noted, eMedia Investments on top of serving as an arch rival to the SABC will also be distributing selected content from the public broadcaster, Takalani Sesame and uBettina Wethu. They've been doing that with M-Net but it's more shocking in these circumstances.

Out of all shows, why did it have to be uBettina Wethu which is currently on SABC 1 with the channel set to rebroadcast the first season as if consumers haven't seen it already. Takalani Sesame is still present on SABC why play second fiddle to competition.

Most of the channel is local at this point and these shows are probably one way to improve the local quota particularly on the kiddies section following the demise of Craze's local youth offering Shiz Niz, Sistahood, Craze World Live and Frenzy.

uBettina Wethu follows the story of a naïve rural girl who gets a job working for one of Johannesburg's most eligible bachelors. As mentioned, SABC is currently on its third season with e.tv serving as the SABC Encore of the SABC with a first season.

Takalani Sesame is an educational show for preschoolers or local version of Sesame Street where viewers can learn about words, numbers and embrace their creative spirit. It features muppet based characters such as Neno, Grover, Kupukeji, Moshe, Zikwe, and Zuzu.

Both shows make their highly anticipated premiere on Monday 10 April. Isono is ending next month so uBettina Wethu takes up it's timeslot 20:30 while Takalani Sesame comes up 6 hours early being 14:30.

In other developments, Housewives is set to a make a comeback weekly at 10pm after its sudden disappearance from the short-lived Sunday Night Series slot. Nikiwe is set to replace Durban Gen later in the month.

As for Imbewu, I'm told that a new show possibly titled Ebumnyameni will replace the telenovela later in that month as well - nothing is confirmed as yet. Of course, this could be the project starring Zuko Nodada as she's filming an unknown project for the brand.

February 2023 Ratings For SABC 1-3, e.tv And DStv

SABC 1:

Notes
• Zahara's new reality show debuts this month in the top 10.
• Sgudi Snaysi despite being outdated for its time remains in the top 10.
• Sports is currently sitting below the top 10.
• Skeem Saam has the most repeat slots.

SABC 2:

Notes
• The President's address continues to overshadow everything else on the channel.
• Afrikaans News is currently the most watched bulletin.
• Shrek is currently the only film on the channel this month.
• Monk is currently the only international series from this month.

SABC 3:

Notes
• Enemy Of The State is currently the most watched film.
• The Estate without primetime is currently one of the top 5 shows on the channel.
• Premier League occupies the most slots on the channel particularly top 10.
• Movies and documentaries occupy an evenly amount of slots within the top 10.

e.tv:

Notes
• All 3 instalments of The Expandables are currently in the top 10.
• Imbewu has the most slots on the channel.
• All 5 of e.tv's local dramas are currently occupying the top 5 this month.
• Date My Family is the only reality show on the channel.

DStv:

Notes
• Mzansi Magic and Moja Love occupy an event amount of slots in the top 10.
• Mzansi Bioskop is sitting below the top 15 section this month.
• The River occupies the most slots this month.
• Showmax original The Wife is also sitting below the top 15.

SABC 1-3, e.tv And DStv TV Ratings For January 2023

SABC 1:
- Aka's final project The Braai Show debuts in the Top 5
- The channel continues to dominate the youth viewership with Matric Results alongside the ongoing Uzalo and Skeem Saam.
- Skeem Saam rebroadcasts has more viewers than Uzalo with the most popular show on the channel occupying more slots.

SABC 2:
- Afrikaans news bulletins has more viewers than Sespedi, Xhosa and Setswana news.
- Muvhango occupies the most slots this month.
- On top of Muvhango, repeats dominate their top 20 portfolio featuring Skeem Saam and The Estate.

SABC 3:
- On Point is currently the most watched program on the channel.
- Marvel's Spider-Man occupies the most slots on the channel.
- Despite being repeats, The Estate occupies the top spot as the most watched soap on the channel ahead of 7de Laan and Generations.

e.tv:
- Mr Bones and Just For Laughs Fillers has more viewers than The Black Door and Durban Gen.
- Imbewu is the most watched repeat on the channel.
- Inhlawulo: Damages despite being a limited run series on the channel debuts in the Top 20.

DStv:
- Epk of Spy Kids 2 The Island Of Lost Dreams is currently most watched documentary and international offering this month.
- Moja Love occupies the most spots within the Top 5.
- The Wife and The River has more viewers on Mzansi Wethu.

Other developments:
- Big Brother Titans is nowhere to be seen.
- Gomora's viewership is down by 130000 viewers.

Reviewing Major Changes Coming Soon To The SABC: The Early 2023 Edition

Throughout most of 2022, I'd say the public broadcaster was silent regarding upcoming developments for SABC 1-3, Sport and Education and after that last minute showcase that was aired virtually I'm more convinced that they're now interested in reinventing themselves.

Earlier in the month, they unveiled a new project known as SABC eKhaya which is set for launch on the DTT platform and SABC+. The project is an expansion of the current SABC News Channel on the DStv platform and also the revamped SABC Parliament channel.

Aside from the new project, the public broadcaster was part of an interview basically discussing some minor aspects of reviewing major changes coming soon to the SABC and also briefing readers in on a couple of other aspects I thought readers would find interesting.

SABC:
- Could SABC Encore revival be scrapped?
- A former SABC channel was added onto Openview
- SABC Movies' dream journal
- SABC Education not launching on Openview

Probably give readers a better understanding regarding some of the questions - new channels.

As mentioned last year, plans are underway to reduce the load of rebroadcasts seen on their 3 channels meaning instead of having Uzalo broadcast on SABC 1 with repeats on the other two channels you'll have repeats air on 1 channel and the other alternative is SABC+.

From what media outlets got from the public broadcaster it could take into affect between now and April 2023.

If I had to guess why these changes haven't taken to affect by now they're probably trying to find other content to put in their place while as changing the timeslots for other content. I mean I don't see any sense in repeating Uzalo more times in 24 hours if the goal is to increase the attention for SABC+.

I mean e.tv once offered two repeat timeslots on weekdays for their longest running soap Scandal and the former musical Rhythm City. Now there's plenty of repeat variety with Elif, Wrede Stad and Verdeelde Liefde.

I do remember them mentioning that SABC 1 would be more youth oriented and SABC 2 would stick to current affairs so maybe more of that will be seen in the blank spaces. As for SABC 3, it will keep moving forward even though some prefer it merging with the other two channels.

Other aspects discussed had to do with SABC Sport, for several decades it was long stated SABC 1-3 will be more like e.tv which is general entertainment and if you wanted to view soccer, cricket and netball you needed SABC Sport.

The problem with getting there had to be the demise of analogue TV. The government has been delaying for more than a decade already same goes for the chances 7de Laan's timeslot won't be interrupted every now and then.

SABC:
- Reviewing major changes coming soon to the SABC
- TelkomOne's transition into SABC+
- SABC 1 title card registered for Openview
- SABC Children appears to have wrapped production

Considering that not everyone has access to SABC Sport particularly when they do turn off these signals with others on the likes of DStv and StarSat. The likelihood is that similar to Impact Wrestling on e.tv, viewers will get 2 hours of sports at least as to not drive away viewers.

If this switch happens, I doubt it would be completely over with I'm just not expecting them to use the channels for FIFA as that disrupted their schedule quiet frequently.

Over to the content, we all know that SABC is not ringing in as much dough to get as much content as possible as some report that staff and crew members don't get paid on time.

Now the idea is to also greenlit content exclusively for Netflix and MultiChoice similar to what DreamWorks Animation does with the streamer alongside Peacock and Apple TV+ now they're another alternative for programming.

As for SABC+, the goal right now is to gain enough traction especially after that whole mess with TelkomOne so original ideas isn't in the pipeline for the time being as they're more focused in getting the brand off the ground at this stage.

Conclusion

Despite being past the age of retirement, SABC is proving you can still grow in big boy pants and go through hurdles. It doesn't stop when you're 85, you got to keep moving forward instead of waiting for life to grab you by the balls.

TAMS: Television Ratings For SABC 1-3, e.tv And DStv For December 2022

SABC 1:

Uzalo - 5 190 596
Generations the Legacy - 4 104 634
Generations Soap - 3 576 722
Skeem Saam - 3 575 190
Skeem Saam Repeat - 2 323 406
Xhosa News - 2 053 214
Uzalo Repeat - 2 048 018
Zulu News - 1 966 104
Soccer Build-up - 1 855 415
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Build up - 1 742 008
Uzalo Omnibus - 1 698 042
Sgudi Snaysi - 1 660 294
Judas Kiss Repeat - 1 554 088
Last Chance Music Experience - 1 547 507
Muvhango Repeat - 1 529 209
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Argentina Vs Spor - 1 459 354
The Braai Show with Aka - 1 401 099
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: France vs Mor - 1 396 850
Skeem Saam Omnibus - 1 343 661
Spring Fiesta - 1 316 864

SABC 2:

Muvhango - 1 548 055
Kgatelopele - 786 740
7De Laan - 764 955
Bone of My Bones - 736 496
Majakathata Repeat - 705 325
Muvhango Omnibus - 672 089
Nuus - 616 357
Majakathata - 614 738
Leihlo La Sechaba - 586 163
Phamokate - 576 567
Skeem Saam Repeat - 535 392
Vutha Repeat - 509 095
Ses/Tsw/Sep News - 484 646
Imvelogy - 470 556
Soccer Wrap - 469 041
Monk Repeat - 469 119
Morning Live News - 450 740
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Ghana vs Urug - 449 850
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Morocco vs Sp - 443 578
The Estate Repeat - 436 683

Openview Plus:
- Could international series be making a comeback on e.tv?
- eExtra scrapped the launch of 4 telenovelas
- Verdeelde Liefde to return with a second season on eExtra
- Imbewu has been cancelled on e.tv after 5 seasons

SABC 3:

Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Japan vs Spain - 519 808
Serengeti - 471 921
The Amazing Spider-Man - 455 286
Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022: Cameroon vs B - 442 645
Spider-Man 2 Movie - 419 711
Soccer Wrap - 412 617
Premier League Manchester City vs Everto - 407 236
Tropika of Treasure - 388 008
Spiderman Yent - 387 075
On Point News - 377 313
The Estate Repeat - 361 749
The Estate Omnibus - 317 563
The Lost World - 298 970
Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa Movie - 290 413
News - 289 308
7De Laan Repeat - 279 889
Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs Movie - 279 425
Twilight Movie - 278 805
Generations the Legacy Repeat - 273 285
Spider-Man 3 - 259 030

e.tv:

Scandal - 4 017 097
House of Zwide - 3 123 660
Imbewu - 2 139 908
The Black Door - 1 851 207
Durban Gen - 1 635 594
Big Momma's House 2 Movie - 1 619 820
The Powerball Draw Quiz - 1 560 133
E.TV News - 1 549 126
Isono - 1 533 338
Big Momma's House Movie - 1 523 149
Big Mommas: Like Father Like Son Movie - 1 475 866
The Medallion - 1 394 698
Imbewu Repeat - 1 352 904
Durban Gen Repeat - 1 314 627
Scandal Repeat - 1 277 663
House of Zwide Repeat - 1 226 574
Newsnight - 1 138 316
Inhlawulo - Damages - 1 131 887
Bad Boys Movie - 1 084 671
Around the World in 80 Days - 1 062 985

DStv:

* Between households and 18-49 years of age

MZAN Gomora - 912 173 & 1 079 016
MOJA Uyajola 9/9 - 670 983 & 796 929
MZAN Uthando Nesthembu - 640 181 & 752 616
MZAN The Queen Movie - 620 601 & 736 305
MZAN Diep City - 553 799 & 676 477
MZAN The River Movie - 550 747 & 647 279
MOJA X-Repo - 518 780 & 627 054
MWET The Wife Movie - 503 368 & 645 911
MWET Lingashoni - 478 744 & 591 056
MWET The River Repeat - 469 890 & 523 761
MWET The Queen Repeat - 463 879 & 510 963
MWET The Queen Repeat - 453 021 & 468 865
MWET The River - 411 586 & 517 550
MZAN Date My Family - 406 259 & 485 781
MWET Lingashoni Repeat - 392 448 & 411 478
MBIO Umacala Wami - 380 643 & 336 847
NEWA Daytime Update - 355 122 & 450 897
MOJA Mamazala Real - 351 731 & 416 581
MBIO Oksalayo Ngiyashisa - 343 848 & 353 398
MWET Gomora Repeat - 343 779 & 406 638
MBIO Sekoloto - 339 186 & 215 329
MOJA Khuzeka - 339 035 & 407 778
MZAN Imboni Yama Tekisi - 335 842 & 391 980
MBIO One Time Pin - 335 462 & 281 586
MBIO Kasi Loving - 334 251 & 420 881
MZAN Grootboom and Sons - 333 384 & 389 923
CHNO Uthando Lodumo - 333 298 & 447 166
MOJA Rea Tsotella - 331 045 & 387 811
MOJA Umakhelwane - 327 056 & 377 390
MBIO Pearls of Wisdom - 325 346 & 405 443

Reviewing Major Changes Coming Soon To The SABC

Last month, the public broadcaster was all buzz hosting a last minute showcase where they transitioned to video entertainment announcing further content for their current channels on top of launching SABC+ in place of the former TelkomOne streaming service.

Of course, what remains absent is the two entertainment channels announced in partnership with eMedia Investments last year. Just like SABC+, sources mention that those channels had already entered final stages a while back.

Honestly, it doesn't appear that they'll be anything time soon but with these recent adjustments. It's possible that they'll likely bring them up in the near future or as soon as most of these developments are dealt with.

As mentioned, the SABC has shared a couple of things in which we want to brief everyone on:

* The public broadcaster is heading for another loss making year with R608 million which has just tripled from last year R201 million.
* They failed to hit their targets in terms of commissioning, producing and broadcasting fresh content with most of the blows going onto SABC 1. All 3 channels target 20% of which the top channel reaches 4% with the second channel 14% and least watched 9%.
* The SABC is expected to make a chunk of cash through their newly launched streaming service, SABC+. R6 million in one quarter alongside R31.5 million in the next quarter.
* The revenue for their 3 channels has been negatively impacted following the cancellation of analogue signals.
* SABC+ has about 15000 signups on a daily basis can't say it's surprising considering that they have the most accessible channels in South Africa.
* A new loyalty programme might be in works the aim is to boost the number of TV Licence payers.
* Still bickering want MultiChoice to pay for their 3 channels although other outlets like Openview view them freely.
* A budget for their channels had been shared with the media. From what's known R468 million had been budgeted for which 218 million is spent and R665 million is earned on SABC 1, R141 million is spent and R199 million earned on SABC 2 and lastly R69 million is spent and R79 million is earned on SABC 1.
* SABC 1 will focus more on sourcing youth based content while SABC 2 transitions to current affairs and news.
* They'll be cutting back on the amount of social media handles we assume that they are also referring to shows like The Epic Hangout which too has a social page.
* A cutback on repeats especially on primetime with the axing of non-performing content. We assume The Estate will be saved despite primetime not being one of the top 20 shows on SABC 3.
* Uzalo remains on SABC 1 and Muvhango remains on SABC 2 - remember how the public broadcaster repeated shows on multiple channels well they'll put a stop to that meaning each primary show will air on their primary channel with SABC+ also filling that gap.
* The public broadcaster in partnership with SABC News is trying to find alternatives to the cancelled Special Assignment on SABC 3.