E.tv confirmed that its latest telenovela, Nikiwe produced by Thomas Gumede and Lungile Radebe’s Parental Advisory Productions has been cancelled. The show, led by The Wife star Lungelo Mpangase, will conclude with its last episode airing in early 2024.
The decision to end ‘Nikiwe’ comes after the show faced challenges, including a change in the head writer from Siphosethu Tshapu to Bongi Ndaba. The show’s underperformance prompted this move compared to other popular programs like Smoke and Mirrors, Scandal!, and House of Zwide.
ALSO READ: Two Limpopo Men Buried Alive While Digging A Hill
Viewer Reactions to the cancellation
Viewers expressed their opinions on social media, with many stating that they were not surprised by the cancellation. The show was competing in the 18:30 time slot with well-established programs such as Skeem Saam and Sibongile and The Dlaminis.
@mrcool_SIYA: “No shocked at all with the decision taken by the channel from the word go nje it was not make sure.”
@Thando_Zulu_: “Not surprised about this. We already have Skeem Saam and Sibongile and the Dlaminis to watch.”
@v_bonna: “We have a Nikiwe whose parents were killed in front of her, and I thought she’s about to get into bad b*txh mode of finding her parents’ killers and take over the business. Instead, they gave the business to Gogo and brought another son, then made Nikiwe a schoolgirl?”
@mmutugutugu: “It’s been coming. Lost its plot long ago…. They should have not killed off Bungane and wife.”
ALSO READ: Revealed! KwaZulu-Natal DA Chief Whip Received Death Threats Before His Murder
E.tv’s Official Statement
E.tv officially attributed the cancellation of ‘Nikiwe’ to low ratings. The channel released a statement explaining the show’s conclusion, acknowledging its struggle to compete in the highly competitive 18:30 time slot.