Johannesburg, South Africa – The curtains are closing on a beloved Mzansi Magic telenovela, as the channel has announced the cancellation of "Champions" after its final season. The news has brought a cloud of disappointment upon fans who have been glued to the show's dramatic twists and turns since its premiere on 5 February 2024.
The final episode of "Champions", featuring a stellar cast including Jo-Anne Reyneke, Sello Maake ka-Ncube, Tumisho Masha, Kwenzo Ngcobo, Kgomotso Christopher, and Keitu Sankola, is scheduled to air on 31 January 2025. Production for the season wrapped up last month, leaving fans with a bittersweet anticipation of the final chapter.
"Champions" has been a staple in Mzansi Magic's prime-time lineup, captivating audiences with its compelling storylines and relatable characters. The show explored themes of family, love, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams, resonating with viewers across South Africa.
Shirley Adonisi, Director of Local Entertainment Channels at Mzansi Magic, expressed gratitude to the viewers for their unwavering support throughout the show's run.
"Firstly, to our cast, Tshedza Pictures, sponsors, and advertisers, thank you for your ongoing support for Champions and your efforts in entertaining our Mzansi Magic viewers," she said in a statement.
While the cancellation of "Champions" marks the end of an era for the show's dedicated fanbase, Mzansi Magic assures viewers that they are committed to delivering fresh and engaging content.
"Mzansi Magic plays a pivotal role in entertaining viewers during prime-time, and we continue to keep up with the latest television trends," Adonisi explained. "We are currently developing several new show concepts, not limited to telenovelas, and fine-tuning our key returning shows to ensure that Mzansi Magic’s prime-time 2025 slots are well received."
The cancellation of "Champions" follows a trend of popular telenovelas being axed by Mzansi Magic in recent years. Shows like "Isibaya", "The Queen", "DiepCity", and "Gomora" have all met their demise, leaving viewers with a sense of nostalgia and a longing for their beloved characters.
The decision to cancel "Champions" has sparked discussions among fans and industry insiders alike. Some speculate that the show's ratings may have played a role in the decision, while others point to the channel's strategy to refresh its programming lineup and cater to evolving viewer preferences.
While the cancellation of "Champions" marks a bittersweet moment for viewers, it also serves as an opportunity for Mzansi Magic to explore new avenues and introduce fresh faces to the South African television scene.
