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By Citizen Reporter

Journalist


Cash-strapped SABC drops ‘Top Billing’

The public broadcaster can no longer afford to pay for the popular lifestyle TV show, and after 23 years will air the final episode this weekend.


Embattled public broadcaster SABC has made yet another sacrifice as it continues to struggle financially. 

After 23 years, the popular SABC3 luxury lifestyle TV show Top Billing will no longer be aired. 

According to Sowetan, Tswelopele Productions will air its last episode of the show on Saturday. 

The SABC will reportedly release a media statement on the announcement. 

However, Sowetan reports that the show costs the SABC between R500,000 and R800,000 per show to produce, which is why it chose not to renew Top Billing’s contract in June. 

Other sources told the publication that ratings had also dropped. 

Executive producer and chairperson of Tswelopele Productions, Basetsana Khumalo, said in a statement that the end for Top Billing will hopefully signal new opportunities for young creatives. 

Khumalo thanked viewers for the unforgettable, award-winning journey. 

(Compiled by Nica Schreuder.)

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