SABC has cancelled popular TV show Top Billing after 23 years and it’s quite heartbreaking to the viewers
It’s learnt that the travel, lifestyle, home and celebrities show produced by Tswelopele Production, founded by Basetsana Kumalo and Patience Stevens, will air its final episode on Saturday.
Contacted for comment, SABC spokesperson Vuyo Mthembu said: “Please note that an official media statement will be released tomorrow [today] in this regard,” Mthembu said.
Kumalo asked Sowetan to e-mail her an enquiry on the show ending but had not replied by the time of publication.
According to a source close to the show, the SABC didn’t renew the show’s contract four months ago because it was “expensive” to make, especially the international shoots. Sowetan understands that it cost between R500,000 and R800,000 to produce a show.
Another source revealed that since the show moved to the Saturday time slot from Thursday night, the ratings had dipped drastically.
Top Billing Statement
It’s been an exceptional 25 years from where I come from as a producer and co-owner of Tswelopele Productions. The privilege of producing an incredible show that has captivated South Africans and international audiences is one that warms my heart every day when I think of my very first day as a young presenter on Top Billing.
This show exemplifies excellence and sophistication in arts, design, decor, fashion and broadcasting, creating countless jobs in its many years on air. It has been quite a ride and it is fitting that after 25 years, we salute this season as our final one.
“Basetsana fought tooth and nail to keep the show. She remains very unhappy about the decision to end the show,” a close friend told Sowetan.