June 15, 2020
During the lockdown period, we all need some form of entertainment to distract us from the difficult time and challenges ahead. What better time to view some of the best soapies shown in South Africa in 2020? South Africans love their local soapies and a few of these popular shows are explored below.
Statistics provided by the Broadcast Research Council show that the flagship of SABC1, namely, ‘Uzalo’, has received the most significant number of viewers in South Africa. Based in Kwa-Zulu Natal, this Zulu drama has mesmerised 9,6 million viewers. It has been going since 2016, when it exceeded 5 million viewers, surpassing ‘Generations: The Legacy’ as the most viewed soapie.
This revamped soapie is also broadcasted on SABC1, viewed daily by 8.2 million people. This soapie has been following ‘Uzalo’ for about 4 years. Despite it being immensely popular and having some of the best actors such as Vusi Kunene and Manaka Ramaka, the forthcoming year will reveal if it claws back its number 1 spot as the most-watched soapie in SA.
‘Skeem Saam’ is a youth drama, which is highly favoured by an audience of 6.2 million. eTV’s ‘Scandal’ follows this, in which the show's villain Masasa is played by Thembeka Shezi. This talented Safta-winning actress is quite capable of drawing even more viewers than the current 4.7 million.
As part of SABC 2’s top five, ‘Muvhango’ with ‘Scandal’ has surpassed SABC1’s top five soapies. About 4.4 million people watch this Venda soapie every day. The soapie has been going for more than 23 years, and even though it hasn’t won any major TV or film awards, it is still regarded as a huge favourite.
Despite the star cast, this soapie has not had it easy. Mzansi Magic’s ‘Isabaya’ started in 2013, and even though it is done so well, it is battling to capture its market share. It has an audience of 731,000. At the Saftas, ‘Isabaya’ managed to obtain the best supporting actor and actress titles for Gcina Mkhize and Abdul Khoza.
Produced by Ferguson Films, this online soapie has managed to garner a lot of support. It is often located on the popular lists and has real-time viewers of 1.2 million that watch it daily.
1 Magic’s ‘The River’ was set to debut the third season on 27 January, 2020.
Watching these soapies is most entertaining to so many millions of viewers all over South Africa. Soapies offer viewers stories with drama, twists and intrigue. Your life doesn’t have to be filled with drama, especially when it comes to car insurance. Many of this audience also own cars, which may need insurance cover. Perhaps consider getting affordable car insurance with PMD that comes with unique benefits like fixed premiums* and reduce to zero excess*. T’s and C’s apply.
Sources:
November 7, 2023
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