Don’t worry, 7de Laan will stay on air

South Africans were clutching their pearls yesterday when rumours started circulating that 7de Laan might not air next week Monday.

The soapie’s line producer, Frances Maposa, sent a memo to staff at Danie Odendaal Productions yesterday, stating that the soapie’s contract with the SABC was still under renewal and suggested staff make arrangements with debit orders, as the production company won’t be able to invoice the SABC for salaries.

Contract negotiations started late September, according to Maposa’s memo. The last discussions with the national broadcaster took place on October 17, and the contract was currently with the legal departments involved.

Many mistook the information that the soap has been canned, but Danie Odendaal Produksies confirmed on the soaps Facebook page that while they waited for the final contract, new episodes would still air.

Episodes are shot up to two months in advance. Dispelling rumours even further last night that the soap is ending, cast members arrived at the premiere of Eintlik Noigal Baie, which stars Andre Lotter, known for his role as Rickus Welman on 7de Laan.

Lotter was supported by his soap co-stars, including David Rees (Chris Welman) and Hildegardt White (Bonita), who were all beaming.

On the red carpet, Lotter mentioned he was a bit concerned earlier in the day but was unrattled after it was confirmed the show would continue

If you want further confirmation that 7de Laan is here to stay, Jaques Blignaut, known as Vince Meintjies on the show, will be taking part in a Fan Friday Twitter Q&A this afternoon.

Be sure to get your #FanFriday questions ready for Jaques Blignaut on twitter.

Between 1pm-2pm you can ask him anything. pic.twitter.com/bFkckKQ455

— 7de Laan (@Real7deLaan) October 19, 2016