Mzansi Magic has refuted circulating media reports that two production crew members who were working on the set of the popular show Shaka Ilembe died of food poisoning.
The show, which is currently shooting its second season, chronicles the life of Zulu king Shaka Zulu. It is owned by Multichoice, produced by Bomb Productions and airs on Mzansi Magic, a division of M-Net focused on local productions. It also streams on Showmax.
According to Mzansi Magic spokesperson Portia Hlongwane, contrary to the media reports that two crew members died, the correct figure is one member who was a make-up artist on the set. The member was employed on the set for one and a half days before the health emergency. On her second day, she allegedly reported feeling weak with flu-like symptoms and was sent to see the production medic, after which her next of kin was contacted to collect her.
“Regrettably, her condition worsened, and she passed away 3 days later at home. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to her family and friends during this difficult time,” Hlongwane said.
Shaka Ilembe is currently one of the most popular shows in South Africa. Its first episode, which aired in June 2023, broke the Multichoice record for viewership of a drama series, clocking over 3.6 million viewers across DStv platforms in the country. The show also reached number 1 on the DStv App across Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia.