The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) Video Entertainment division is celebrating a triumphant night after its channels won multiple accolades at the 7th Annual Royalty Soapie Awards. The event, held on Saturday, 24th August 2024, at the Heartfelt Arena in Centurion, honored the best in South African television, recognizing the talent and hard work of those who bring compelling stories to life.
SABC Channels secured a total of seven awards, with SABC1’s popular drama series *Skeem Saam* leading the charge with three wins. Among the standout performances was actress Harriet Manamela, who won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her powerful portrayal of Meikie Maputla. Her performance has been a staple of the show, bringing depth and complexity to the beloved character.
The public also had their say, voting for Mahlatse Moropo as the Viewer’s Choice for Best Actor. Moropo has captivated audiences with his portrayal of Letetswe, a character whose growth and challenges resonate with many viewers. Additionally, Lethabo Mekoa won the Viewer’s Choice for Best Actress for her compelling role as Ntswaki. These viewer-voted awards underscore the actors’ popularity and the show’s impact on its audience.
*SABC3’s* drama series *The Estate* also enjoyed its share of accolades. Lerato Mvelase and Dumisani Mbebe were honored with the award for Outstanding Couple for their roles as Noxolo Nebengela and Melisizwe Nebengela. Their on-screen chemistry and portrayal of a complex relationship have made them a fan-favorite pair, contributing to the show’s growing success.
Celebrating a decade of success, *Uzalo* was awarded the Most Watched Show, a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences over the years. Meanwhile, the long-running soap opera *7de Laan* won the award for the Most Popular Show, further solidifying its status as a staple in South African households.
In addition to these wins, Muvhango’s creator and executive producer, Duma Ndlovu, was honored with the prestigious Trailblazer Award. This recognition celebrates Ndlovu’s immense contribution to the South African television landscape, where his work has continually pushed boundaries and set new standards for storytelling in the industry.
The Royalty Soapie Awards aim to celebrate and highlight the excellence within the South African television industry. They acknowledge the tireless efforts of performers, writers, directors, and technical crews who work behind the scenes to deliver compelling and high-quality content to viewers across the nation.
The SABC’s achievements at the awards reflect its commitment to providing diverse, engaging, and impactful content to its audience. The corporation remains dedicated to supporting local talent and storytelling, ensuring that South African voices continue to be heard and celebrated.
The SABC Video Entertainment division extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Their achievements demonstrate the strength and vibrancy of South African television, and the SABC is proud to be a part of this dynamic industry.