Is it over for the Eastern Cape-based isiXhosa drama Gqeberha: The Empire?
According to Mzansi Magic, it isn't.
Questions and speculations about it ending began after an article on the website
ZiMoja which alleges that the actors have been mistreated by the producers Tshedza Pictures, with accusations of poor pay and dire living and working conditions.
An unnamed cast member claims that they've heard "through the grapevine" that the series won't be continuing for further seasons.
TVSA asked Mzansi Magic whether it's true that it's ending and this is their response:
• The channel can confirm that Gqeberha: The Empire is scheduled to remain on-air for the foreseeable future. Plans are in progress for the next season, further detail will be communicated in due course.
• Mzansi Magic has just been made aware of the allegations of mistreatment of cast, we take such allegations seriously and we will be reaching out to the production house to verify the same.
• Gqeberha: The Empire has been welcomed by our audiences, as a great avenue to connect with beautiful region of the Eastern Cape and we are proud of what this project has achieved in this province.
Season 1 ends on Friday 12 January 2024.