TV stations in Madiba frenzy

Jonathan Mbiriyamveka Television
Last week, the first black South African president Nelson Mandela died aged 95. Naturally, as a global icon, the media went into the annals of history looking back at the life and times of Mandela who was lovingly called Madiba.Of course, that would not be without a reason since Mandela made a difference in more ways than one. I won’t go into detail since Madiba had a larger than life character.

Quite honestly, he might not have satisfied everybody but Madiba was no ordinary person.

So at the weekend, even those who didn’t know about Madiba’s death were reminded on the small screens through several programmes that focused on his life.

Even music channels were not left out in celebrating Madiba’s life through music, the same way we do with our national galas to commemorate the fallen heroes.

I noticed Trace TV had an insert of Madiba’s picture, it was the same thing on Channel O and MTV Base.

But, most importantly, DStv had a special channel where they screened a documentary on Madiba. I am not sure if the documentary is the same as the film “Mandela Long Walk Freedom” which stars Idris Elba (as Mandela) and Naomie Harris (as Winnie Mandela).

The film is based on South African President Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, which chronicles his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison before becoming president and working to rebuild the country’s once segregated society.

It appears the Madiba celebrations are set to continue until his burial. For those who might have missed on the special programmes it might be worthwhile to tune in during the course of the week.

Elsewhere, here are some of the programmes to look forward to this December.

M-Net (DStv Channel 101)

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D (Premiere): Clark Gregg reprises his role of Agent Phil Coulson from Marvel’s feature films, as he assembles a small, highly select group of Agents from the worldwide law-enforcement organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. Together they investigate the new, the strange and the unknown around the globe, protecting the ordinary from the extraordinary.

Coulson’s team consists of Agent Grant Ward, highly trained in combat and espionage; “Agent Melinda May”, expert pilot and martial artist; “Agent Leo Fitz”, brilliant engineer; and Agent Jemma Simmons, genius bio-chemist. Joining them on their journey into mystery is new recruit and computer hacker “Skye”. From Wednesday November 27 at 19:30 CAT.

DISCOVERY CHANNEL
(DStv Channel 121)
King of Crash: The world of the demolition derby can be summed up by one simple axiom — “smash or be smashed”. Explosive egos, intense competition and automotive carnage make these destructive events impossible to turn away from. Set in Utah’s demolition derby circuit, this is a world of legalised road rage — where the accidents aren’t accidents and the characters are as combustible as the collisions! TJ, the “Sweat Brothers” and “Gumby the Stormin” Mormon compete for bragging rights, family honour and enough prize money to repair their cars for the next event.
The series explores the personal lives of eight drivers who step behind the wheel every week in hope of crushing the competition and bringing home a win.

At each derby, competitors advance through various heats for a chance to capture the coveted title of “Mad Dog”: “Most Aggressive Driver”, and juggle nagging physical pain, strained family relationships and financial stresses as they push ahead in their quest to become derby champion. From Friday December 6 at 20:30 CAT.

E! ENTERTAINMENT
(DStv Channel 124)
E! Entertainment Special — Tori Spelling: She’s come a long way from her role in the hit teen series “Beverly Hills”, 90210, and “Tori Spelling” is now an author, producer, designer, reality TV star, wife, mother and, most recently, a survivor.

Join Giuliana Rancic this month for an intimate and exclusive look at Tori’s personal world as she discusses everything from her career and marriages to the difficult pregnancy that left her bed-ridden for two months and nearly cost her life. It airs on Thursday December 12 at 22:00 CAT.