South Africa’s TV and film industry has been under the spotlight for the past few days and not for the right reasons. This follows an open letter to Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Nathi Mthethwa, by veteran actress Vatiswa Ndara.
In the letter, Ndara cries fowl on the exploitation and treatment of actors in the industry. The actress called for transparency between broadcasters, production companies and talent
“At what point, as actors, can we claim to be bona fide professionals rather than national court jesters eternally destined to be free entertainment for the people of this fine nation,” Ndara said.
Speaking on her personal experiences in the industry, Ndara said the letter was prompted by her interactions with Connie and Shona Ferguson’s production house, Ferguson Films, which produces the hit show iGazi.
Ndara confirmed that she would not be part of the season of the popular drama after Ferguson Films offered her below what she considered a fair wage.
“This particular interaction with Ferguson Films has not only made me evaluate my own being and sustenance within this industry, but also the plight of my fellow actors, crew and other creative contributors,” she said.
Ndara’s actions have been met with both praises and resistance. On the one hand fellow actors have rallied behind her and echoed her sentiments while Ferguson has dismissed the alleged mistreatment and exploitation of actors.
Mthethwa has since responded to Ndara’s concerns in the form of a private call to the actress.
“Thank you for taking my call earlier Vatiswa, @theVati_Can & for taking me in your confidence. I deemed it important that mine not be an immediate public response but one that stems from first embracing you as the actors we dearly love first. I have heard you. We will be in touch,” Mthethwa said in a tweet
