Isibaya comes to an end

FOR many, the cancellation of South Africa’s Isibaya soapie signals the end of a groundbreaking era in television.

The hit Mzansi Magic show kept viewers on the edge of their seats for years with its high paced drama and story lines. And while it’s spark might have died which is indicative of its dwindling viewership numbers over the last year, it will still be remembered as the drama that gave South Africans some of the best television.

While Mzansi Magic kept mum as rumours of the show’s cancellation circled for months last year, in a statement sent to IOL Entertainment, the channel director for local entertainment channels at M-Net, Nomsa Philiso, said: “It’s always sad when a show that was popular and loved ends, as it is the case with Isibaya. However, times change and television is about adopting and adapting. As Mzansi Magic, we are thrilled about the new partnership with Black Brains Productions.

They will be bringing in fresh content that is innovative and captivating.”

Following the news, stars of the show took to social media to bid farewell. Actor Sdumo Mtshali, who has played the character of Sbusiso on the drama since it began, took to his Instagram to thank the production and veteran actor Bheki Mkhwane, who played his father for eight seasons.

“Eight seasons playing father and son! Eight seasons constantly teaching our audience about the importance of family, culture and black love! One of my grateful career moves of all time. Thank you Bheki Mkhwane,” he wrote in a caption which accompanied a picture of himself and Bheki on set.” — iol.co.za