Good news for South African actors: Rami Chuene has confirmed that the SABC will pay repeat fees for the hit telenovela Giyani: Land Of Blood, bringing relief and renewed hope for performers who rely on residual income.
Chuene, a well-known face in local television, announced the development on social media, celebrating the decision as a win for artists and a step toward fairer compensation practices. The move ensures that cast members receive payments when episodes are re-broadcast, an important source of income long sought by creatives across the industry.
Giyani: Land Of Blood, which premiered to strong viewership and critical attention, has kept audiences engaged with its mix of community drama, cultural themes, and gripping storylines. Repeat broadcasts extend the show’s reach and cultural impact — and with this agreement, they now translate into concrete financial benefit for the actors who brought the characters to life.
Advocates for performers have argued for years that residuals are essential for sustaining creative careers, particularly in markets where acting work can be intermittent. Chuene’s confirmation signals progress in that direction and may set a precedent for other productions and broadcasters to follow. For many cast members, repeat fees can mean covering living costs between jobs, investing in training, or supporting families.
The announcement has been met with praise across the entertainment community, from fellow actors to industry groups urging broader adoption of fair payment models. While details about the fee structure and rollout remain to be clarified, the confirmation itself is a morale boost — showing that collective effort and industry attention can deliver tangible results.
As South Africa’s television landscape evolves, measures like this could help make acting a more sustainable profession and encourage more diverse storytelling by ensuring creators are properly rewarded for their work.