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 

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