The year began on an optimistic note with the announcement that Paradys would be arriving on television.
It marked the first time since SABC 2’s beloved 7de Laan ended that Afrikaans community stories had been given a prime-time television platform.
But the celebration surrounding Black Brain Pictures’ telenovela appears to have been brief.
Eight months after its debut, Paradys has confirmed that its first season will be its only one, with no renewal planned. The SABC said its decision was determined by two key measures: the size of the show’s audience and the advertising income it brought to the channel.
“From its premiere on 23 February through to 9 October 2026, the 19:00 airing drew an average of roughly 275 000 viewers an episode, delivering a 0.71% audience rating and a 2.2% audience share.
“Regrettably, the series did not meet the viewing and revenue goals set for that time slot, and it will therefore not return,” the statement said.
Speaking to Drum about the surprise setback, Black Brain Pictures executive creative director Mandla Ngcongwane said TV remains a business driven by ratings, scheduling decisions and broadcasters’ evolving priorities.
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“We are proud of what we have produced, but the length of a show’s run is decided by considerations that extend beyond the production company. We respect the channel’s choice, while remaining confident in our ability to make engaging stories that connect with viewers. Black Brain is continually creating and developing projects, so we are already looking ahead to the next opening.”
While he did not anticipate the cancellation, Ngcongwane said his years in the industry have taught him to be ready for every possible outcome.
“You naturally want every production to have a lengthy run, but television can be unpredictable. The end of one show does not bring the creative journey to an end.”
Comparing the situation with the popularity of the programme it replaced, the award-winning producer and director said succeeding a long-established series such as 7de Laan inevitably came with major expectations.
Still, he said that, “with additional time, we would have appreciated the chance to build Paradys further and let its characters and plots develop.”
The news follows confirmation that another Black Brain Pictures series, e.TV’s Isitha, will broadcast its final episode in April 2027 after four successful seasons.
“Whenever a local show comes to an end, there is a danger that a platform for varied voices, lived experiences and viewpoints disappears with it. Black-owned production companies play a vital role in making sure television reflects the complete diversity of South African life. But diversity is not simply about who makes the content; it is also about who is given the chance to tell stories regularly and in a sustainable way.”
Despite the difficult double setback, Mandla insisted: “We will never sacrifice the authenticity of our stories merely in pursuit of a longer run.”
He said his work continues to be guided by three essential forces: passion, purpose and a firm belief in his ability to tell South African stories.
Paradys will end in February 2027.
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