RIP: TV Producer Pumla Hopa, the Woman Behind Isidingo, Has Passed Away
- South African television producer Pumla Hopa, who worked on beloved soapie Isidingo and My Brother's Keeper, passed away on 29 October 2026
- Hopa played a key behind-the-scenes role in Isidingo, rising through the production ranks over the show's run
- Fans and industry peeps flooded social media with tributes after news of her passing broke online
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Source: Twitter
Mzansi's entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran television producer Pumla Hopa, who was instrumental in bringing South African soapie Isidingo, which starred Inimba actress Nasiphi Ntabeni, Kgomotso Christopher and Mitchelle Botes.
Hopa also produced Mzansi Magic's canned drama series My Brother's Keeper starring Sdumo Mtshali and many more.
According to media reports, Hopa passed away on 28 October 2026 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy of work that helped shape some of the country’s most recognisable television productions.
Entertainment commentator Jabu McDonald confirmed Hopa's passing on his X account on Wednesday, 29 October 2026.
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News of her passing broke on 29 October 2026, sending shockwaves through the local TV community.
The South African Film and Television Awards also paid tribute to Hopa on its Instagram account.
"The South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) extends its condolences to the family, friends and industry colleagues of prominent executive producer and media executive, Pumla Hopa. Hopa produced some of the leading local soapies and dramas like Isidingo, My Brother's Keeper, Bogaditsong: Sister Wives, and Stokvel Season. May she rest in peace.🕊️," said the organisation.
SA pays tribute to the producer
@vusumuzin wrote:
"I remember seeing her name on the credits after each episode of Isidingo. I think firstly as a line producer and later as something else big in that production. RIP 🕊️"
@louiza_behind_the_make_up_sa said:
"Sad news. May she rest in eternal peace."
@mfundolorette shared:
"Mama Phumla gave Isidingo ❤️😢 may her soul rest in peace 🤍"
@deliwemhlungu added:
"Ohh no...I used to see her name after....ISIDINGO, 😢"
@mmabsie responded:
"Aaaaooo bathong ba modimo. This is so sad. 😢😢"
Source: Twitter
Former Isidingo star Thulani Mtsweni joins Uzalo
In more entertainment news, Briefly News previously reported that popular Black Gold actor Thulani Mtsweni has secured a role on SABC1's popular soapie Uzalo.
The channel confirmed that the fan-favourite actor will portray the character of Pondo.
Uzalo has announced that four more actors have secured roles in the upcoming season.
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Source: Briefly News
