The M-Net channels have received an incredible 114 nominations in the 11th edition of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs), announced in Johannesburg on Thursday, 16 February. M-Net’s legacy has always been about telling local stories and the nominations by the SAFTAs is an acknowledgement of M-Net’s commitment to the industry.
Carte Blanche, M-Net 101’s flagship current affairs series, received a nomination for Best Current Affairs Actuality Programme, while the channel’s popular singing contest, The Voice SA Season 1 and cooking show, Sarah Graham’s Food Safari each received their first nominations. Mzansi Magic’s local content continues to delight audiences with its authentic and colourful storylines. The channel received more than 20 nominations, including nods for Isibaya, Ring of Lies and Greed & Desire. kykNET’s feature films and series clearly impressed, as they received more than 50 nominations (nearly double the 31 nominations received last year). Hotel, a comedy series set in a small South African town, received seven nominations.
“This is a proud moment for our channels – the investment in local content from us and partners like the NFVF will ensure the sustainability and exponential growth of the film and television industry. Telling local stories in local languages that reflect our past, present and future is what we do. Shows like Mzansi Magic’s Isibaya and kykNET’s Suidooster are successful because they showcase the hopes and dreams of our audiences. Congratulations to all our channel teams, actors, actresses and production houses – we value your partnership and are excited about the future of South African film and television,” said M-Net CEO, Yolisa Phahle.
