Since it was announced that The Queen had reached its demise, Mzansi has been focused on finding out who will be replacing it. Entertainment commentator, Phil Mphela made the announcement that the new show will look into the world of shipping.
Taking to Twitter, Phil Mphela revealed that the new show is produced by Tshedza Pictures and is called ‘Gqeberha The Empire’ and was shot in Eastern Cape.
The isiXhosa telenovela will play immediately after The Ferguson Films production, The Queen, ends.
NEW SHOW: Qhebhera The Empire
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) October 24, 2022
A new telenovela replacing The Queen is coming to Mzansi Magic
Produced by Tshedza Pictures, the show is set around the world of shipping and was shot in Eastern Cape this year.
The isiXhosa telenovela will air in January 2023.#KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/8E8KcHwbY2
Mzansi expresses excitement.
The Queen had a good 7 year run but sadly it had to come to an end. The news was first shared by Phil Mphela but later the company, Mzansi Magic confirmed it. The final show will air on March 16 2023.
“As the M-Net Local Entertainment channels, we would like to applaud the producers, cast and crew of The Queen and Lingashoni for their dedication to delivering riveting storylines and award-winning content in highly contested primetime slots. We look forward to the thrills of the next 12 months as both productions draw towards their respective finales,” says Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net.
Ferguson Films spokesperson said “The Queen has been one of our most special projects to date. It has empowered and changed the lives of many, and we are eternally grateful for the opportunity from Mzansi Magic. We look forward to new ventures and creating more riveting shows for our beloved viewers to enjoy.”
This comes after Ferguson Films denied being on the chopping block.
The cast continuously denied that the show would end, making it clear that the were not aware.
Brenda Ngxoli clipped back at Phil, "So now you are telling me What I did a month ago Mpela and yet mna I know nothing ngalento uyithethayo (about what you just said.) #HandsOffFergusonFilms...yiza nazo! (come with it) What else did I do that I have no idea of. Check your Sources. I love @Connie_Ferguson @FegusonFilms for the opportunity and love." she said.
Vuyo Ngcukana who played Schumacher also denied this, "That report was deliberate and malicious, please believe THAT, it is not the first time nor will it be the last, I hold myself to a very high standard with work and I have never compromised that, I appreciate the love since that post, please keep enjoying the work and God bless."
"The actor was fired because he lied about being sick when he was actually shooting another show. I knew that info but kept it private and post “contractual obligation”. How did reporting casting news become a hit on someone’s family? Haibo!"
Image credit: Instagram