‘Uzalo’ Remains SA’s Most Watched Soapie, Beating Other Shows Including ‘Scandal!’ and ‘Skeem Saam’

• Uzalo retains its title as South Africa's most-watched show in December 2023, with over 5.8 million views
• Social media reactions to the viewership statistics were mixed, with fans expressing surprise at the rankings
• Despite fluctuations in viewership numbers, South African soapies continue to enjoy significant support
• Briefly News spoke to Uzalo's Communications Specialist who said the show's success is mainly because the storyline resonates with fans

Uzalo is still reigning supreme in the South African television industry. The popular soapie was listed as the top most-watched show in the country, surpassing others like Generations: The Legacy and House of Zwide.

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According to the new statistics shared by the popular entertainment commentator Jabulani Macdonald on X, (formerly known as Twitter), Uzalo is still at the top with more than 5.8 million views, followed by Scandal! with over 4.8 million views, Generations: The Legacy with 4.7 million views, Skeem Saam 4.6 million views and lastly, House of Zwide with 4.4 million views. The post read:

"Top 5 most-watched shows for December 2023 in SA. 1. #Uzalo -5 832 879 2. #etvscandal - 4 825 095 3. #GenerationsTheLegacy - 4 782 188 4. #SkeemSaam - 4 644 644 5. #HouseofZwide - 4 443 335."

Speaking exclusively to Briefly News, Uzalo's Communications Specialist Nomfundo Zondi said:

"Uzalo features a gripping and relatable storyline that resonates with a broad audience, the show also has engaging narratives and dramatic twists. The show also focuses on portraying and addressing issues relevant to South African society, including cultural, social, and economic aspects. The performance of the cast members as well as their ability to bring characters to life, plays a crucial role in the show's popularity."

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Zondi added that Uzalo is dedicated to its societal impact, blending entertainment with real-life issues. The show sparks discussions beyond the screen, engaging viewers on social media and addressing important community topics.

"Uzalo prides itself with having societal relevance, at the heart of our storytelling lies a dynamic fusion of entertainment and real-time discussions. Our narratives transcend the screen, evolving into discussions among our viewers on social media. This interaction transforms our show into more than just a source of entertainment but it becomes a platform for unpacking and addressing real-life issues within communities.

"From a production standpoint, we are committed to perpetual innovation, both in how we entertain and in our strategic partnerships with brands. This ensures that our show remains a beloved fixture, seamlessly integrated into the actual lifestyles of our dedicated fan base."

Mzansi reacts to the statistics

Social media users shared mixed reactions to the new statistics. Some were happy that their favourite shows made it to the top 5, while others were surprised that some people are still watching soapies.

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@shukrani__ said:

"Generation and Uzalo have a cult following no one talks about them but the views are always up there."

@MphoMurashiwa COMMENTED:

"So happy to see Generations back up here. Top tier production Uzalo bores me bc I feel like I’m watching a skit"

@ThisIsSelby added:

"Hayibo Uzalo lost so many viewers. They were at 8million at one point. Generations also was somewhere there on top."

@whiteRhodaa noted:

"If these are December numbers I get shame, my pedi people don’t have time for tv in December ‍♀️"

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Former Idols SA judge Thembi Seete was cast on Showmax's Adulting as a rich housewife named Portia. In the first episode she featured, she had an adult scene with one of the main characters, Vuyani, played by Luthando BU Mthembu.

Source: Briefly News