The publication adds that the telenovela Gqeberha: The Empire, which premiered in January 2023 has been followed by controversy from the beginning.

Actors from the show allegedly complained about the ill-treatment and “terrible salaries” they’ve receive from the production company.

 

An actor, who prefers to stay anonymous also revealed to ZiMoja that she was living in terrible conditions when she first arrived in Gqeberha, where the show is filmed.

The actor added that the cast was placed in a dump and the place was not liveable, especially for an established actor. She also says, though things seem better at the moment, they are worse for others.

Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela revealed in October 2022 that the show was rumoured to be embroiled in financial drama.

“Actors pay delayed. Sources inform me the show is budgeted at R86-million, and partly funded by Eastern Cape government. The show, produced by Tshedza Pictures is shot on location in Qhebhera, Eastern Cape. Several sources have confirmed that the production has been marred by “issues,” added Mphela.A community leader Luthando Sesimane revealed to ZiMoja that Gqeberha: The Empire does not represent them as the language used on the telenovela is not authentically theirs.

Sesimane added that there are a few people from Gqeberha, who have been employed by the show as when the Arts and Culture Department funded the show, they stated that it would uplift the community.

Another actor revealed to the publication that they heard through the grapevine that the telenovela is ending and they were not told by the production.

“There have been more bad things happening on this production than good. We have tried to cover up the mess but it is too much now.Actors are underpaid and some starve on set.’ A few months ago, management met up with the actors to try and resolve their queries. “But things are worse now,’ the actor concluded.

Tshedza Pictures Management reportedly revealed earlier this year that all actors who indicated to production that they didn’t have accommodation in Gqeberha were provided accommodation.

Gqeberha: The Empire co-creator Phathu Makwarela from Tshedza Pictures