Filmmaker Sonia Mbele is under fire for not paying the Real Housewives of Johannesburg Cast months after filming.
The Glitzy American Franchise
The Real Housewives of Johannesburg is a South African reality television series that follows the lives of several wealthy and glamorous women living in Johannesburg. The series is an international instalment of the American The Real Housewives franchise, and the first one set in Africa. It has aired three seasons since 2018.
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The third season of Real Housewives of Johannesburg (RHOJ) premiered on 19 May 2023 and aired 13 episodes until 25 Aug 2023. The season featured an all-new cast, with some familiar faces, such as Lebo ‘ Jojo’ Mokoena and Lethabo ‘LeJoy’ Mathatho, who returned from season 2. Four other cast members were Keabetswe Marema, Thobekile Mdlalose, Nicole Watson and Mamus Koka.
The season showcased their successes and struggles in their personal and professional lives and the drama and glamour that ensued when they got together. It got rave reviews from fans and critics alike, who praised the show for its authenticity, diversity and entertainment value.
Sonia Mbele Yet To Clear Payment To Real Housewives of Johannesburg Cast
However, there seems to be so much drama behind the glitz and glamour viewers see on screen. Reports suggest that the RHOJ cast has not yet been paid. Sonia Mbele Films produces the franchise.
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Entertainment reporter Phil Mphela revealed:
“No payment for Real Housewives of Johannesburg cast [one week] before Christmas, and there is no Yuletide cheer for the cast of RHOJ season 3, produced by Sonia Mbhele’s company. The cast has not been paid their outstanding salary for shooting the season, which aired on 1Magic this year. Some outstanding invoices go as far back as July 2023.”
He added that Sonia Mbele Films is still awaiting outstanding payments from the broadcaster. Phil said:
“Real Housewives of Johannesburg budgeted at R13 million. The reality show’s third season was initially proposed at R15m but ended up being approved for less. Sonia Mbele Films has conceded that R12 million was paid, but there is an outstanding R600k plus.
“The production company is still expecting from the broadcaster, per communication I have been made privy to. As I reported, the cast has been paid partially for their shoot and are still chasing an outstanding salary balance from Sonia Mbele Films.”