The second season of Shaka Ilembe continues to be marred by controversy. Following allegations of poisoning and the tragic death of a makeup artist, new issues have emerged involving an agent allegedly defrauding extras of their money.
Extras Swindled
The South African Guild of Actors has reported receiving multiple confirmed complaints from background extras. These individuals, who were allegedly transported from KwaZulu Natal and Mpumalanga to Johannesburg to work on Shaka Ilembe, claimed they were coerced into paying rent to their agent.
One actor, cast as an extra, recounted being asked for R500 by what turned out to be a fraudulent agent. “I feel deeply betrayed. I paid the money believing it was necessary to be on the show, only to later discover it was a scam,” she expressed. “This experience has taught me to be more cautious in the future.”
Bomb Production Responds To The Allegations
Bomb Productions has initiated an investigation into these allegations. “We have been informed that certain independent casting and extras agencies have been deceitfully using our production and company name to recruit people,” the company stated. “This is a matter of serious concern for us. We have begun an urgent investigation into these alleged agencies. We have also alerted all agencies providing extras to our productions that any breach of conduct will result in immediate disengagement.”
Official Statement on Food Poisoning Allegations
On May 21, Mzansi Magic addressed the rumours regarding food poisoning on the Shaka Ilembe set. “Mzansi Magic can confirm that there was no incident of food poisoning on the set of Shaka Ilembe,” the statement read. “The makeup artist in question was only employed for a day and a half. On her second day, she reported feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms. She was immediately sent to see the medic, and her family was contacted to take her home. Tragically, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away three days later at home. Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”