Good news for Mzansi Magic fans! A new type of drama series is heading your way. Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) has now confirmed that it is investing in transforming two of its prime-time dramas into anthology series. BothAyeye and eHostelawill return for new seasons in July and August respectively, with both serving up new casts and storylines.
The change is driven by a global trend in which a drama series is recast seasonally, featuring a refreshed perspective within an already clearly defined storytelling universe.
According to Mzansi Magic Director for Local Entertainment Shirley Adonisi, the channel sees great value in growing these established program titles, in fresh and exciting new ways.
“We have invested in building the audiences for Ayeye and eHostela and want to give these audiences new stories within the framework of a title that they already like. Internationally anthology series have delivered strong ratings, and of course, Mzansi Magic wants its line-up to reflect the growing scope and scale of drama series available worldwide.”
She goes on to say, “Given how much talent South Africa has we are excited to give new actors, new directors, and new writers the chance to express their vision of the show’s central idea. They will build on the work of the wonderful cast and crew who delivered the previous seasons of both shows.”
Both titles will also benefit from having new production teams – Ayeye will now be produced by Seriti while Rhythm World take the reins on eHostela. One of the perks of the anthology approach has been the opportunity to set the show in new locations – in Ayeye, while the Braamfontein/Maboneng Precinct is still the backdrop for some action, the bulk of season 2 is based in the Sandton and Rosebank areas.
In the case of the Kwa-Zulu based eHostela, the first season was set in KwaMashu Township, the second season in Joburg. Now with the third season it is back in Kwa-Zulu Natal (Bergville). This eHostela stars Siyabonga Thwala, Gcina Nkosi, Tony Kgoroge, Xoli Zondi, Nkanyiso Mchunu and Mduduzi Nombela.
The first season of Ayeye followed three friends JK, Neo, and Lebo who were copywriters. In their quest to succeed and make it in the industry, they worked for a respected advertising agency.
It is unclear who has been cast this season and we look forward to the announcement soon. In May SA musician Donald Denial, tagged Thapelo Mokoena, SK Khoza and Mpho Popps in a tweet asking them why the show was not renewed for season two.
Responding to his question, Thapelo said he wishes they had do so earlier because they were later caught up in different projects. "Eish the never ending question....tbh I wish we had done so in good time my G, possibly while on air.....we all got caught up in other projects and that window of opportunity was lost," Thapelo responded.
That was one special project my G, I know it might not mean much now but i really felt like y’all needed to know how iconic it was 🙏🏽 Thank you again for Ayeye bro
