The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has confirmed that the drama series Pimville will stop airing on SABC 2, with the decision taking effect immediately. The broadcaster says the suspension follows unresolved contractual problems and alleged violations tied to the programme’s production company.
Why Pimville has been pulled from SABC 2
In an official public statement, the SABC announced that it has discontinued the series “from tonight,” citing unresolved agreements and breaches that were formally identified and communicated to Bakwena Productions.
“Following a thorough review process and careful consideration, the SABC regrets to announce that Pimville will be discontinued from tonight, due to unresolved contractual obligations and breaches identified and communicated formally to Bakwena Productions,” the statement said.
Controversy, alleged breaches, and legal steps
The cancellation arrives after weeks of mounting debate around the production, including worries raised about cast and crew members not being paid.
Although the broadcaster did not provide full specifics about the alleged breaches, it confirmed that legal action is in progress.
- The SABC said the notice of breach was issued to Bakwena Productions in April 2026.
- It added that any next steps will depend on ongoing contractual and legal proceedings.
What the SABC says about process, oversight, and consequences
Alongside the decision to end the run, the SABC acknowledged the work that went into bringing the show to viewers. It also addressed how the programme was originally approved and commissioned.
- The broadcaster said acquisition and commissioning of Pimville followed its standard approval and commissioning processes for SABC productions.
- It admitted that certain oversight systems were not applied consistently during production.
- Because of that, the SABC said internal consequence management procedures were launched.
“As previously communicated publicly by the Corporation, it was subsequently identified that certain approved oversight mechanisms were not implemented consistently and to the required standard. Consequently, an internal consequence management process has been initiated,” the broadcaster explained.
Timeslot changes, talks with the team, and apology to viewers
With Pimville removed from the schedule, SABC 2’s 21:00 slot will temporarily feature repeat episodes from Season 2 of Amalanga Awafani.
The SABC also said it has already started engaging with representatives of the cast and crew about the concerns that were raised, adding that it is focused on safeguarding affected stakeholders while considering possible solutions for the show’s future.
- Legal and contractual matters are ongoing, shaping what happens next.
- The broadcaster says it will prioritise continuity of content and protection of affected stakeholders.
“The Corporation remains committed to stabilising the production environment, ensuring continuity of content, protecting the interests of affected stakeholders, and exploring all appropriate operational options relating to the future of the production,” the statement concluded.
The SABC also apologised to viewers for the disruption to the channel’s programming schedule as uncertainty continues around the future of Pimville.
