All that glitters is not gold
AUCKLAND PARK- ‘Generations’ actors host a press conference “to tell the truth” so the public can understand the demands they are making.
Fired Generations actors held a press conference were all hell broke loose as they informed the public about their reasons to strike and some of the demands they were making.
Veteran actor Patrick Shai said “we did not start this journey to live a life of luxury” in response to statements made by show creator Mfundi Vundla.
Vundla previously said the actors were making unreasonable demands and he was ready for the show to go on without them.
Most tweeters were in support of the action taken by the actors.
Sports presenter Robert Marawa tweeted “Generations cast press conference is remarkable and powerful. Standing up for your rights should be an example to all; Respect”.
Sophie Ndaba who has been part of the show for over 20 years playing Queen admitted that “Generations made me the star that I am today, ” but insisted they had to be treated fairly.
“We have all been offered roles in other soapies but we love Generations,” she added.
Ndaba also made it clear that the cast is not trying to “sabotage” the show because they all love it.
Shai also took the chance to express his anger stating that the actors do not even have medical aid.
“We will not work in environment that doesn’t pay for medical aid,” he said.
Shai added that it would be beneficial for actors to coin a union for themselves and future actors so they can all leave a legacy.
The briefing came a day after the actors met with Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa, who said he was willing to find a solution to the firing of the actors.
According to reports some Generations cast members earn R55 000 per month.
SABC’s Kaizer Kanyago said on a national radio station that the SABC cannot intervene on contractual issues, adding that the SABC was never biased towards the actors.
The 16 cast members fired are:
Sophie Ndaba (Queen), Menzi Ngubane (Sibusiso), Seputla Sebogodi (Kenneth), Katlego Danke (Dineo), Thami Mnqolo (Senzo), Zolisa Xaluva (Jason), Winnie Ntshaba (Khetiwe), Slindile Nodangala (Ruby), Zenande Mfenyana (Noluntu), Thato Molamu (Nicholas) , Anga Makubalo (MJ), Mandla, Gaduka (Choppa), Patrick Shai (Patrick), Atandwa Kani (Samora), Nambitha Mpulwana (Mawande), Zikhona Sodlaka (Priska).
