e.tv Cancels SAFTA-winning Scandal! After Two Decades of TV Drama

Scandal! the SAFTA award-winning soap opera that has been the heartbeat of South African television for more than two decades, will conclude its broadcast on e.tv in June 2026.

After more than twenty years of keeping us on the edge of our seats, the beloved drama is taking its final bow.

Over the years and since its debut in January 2005, Scandal! became more than a TV show – it was, for many South Africans, an appointment that couldn’t be missed.

“The ever-changing television landscape requires broadcasters to consistently review all programming and scheduling, and we believe that Scandal! has reached the end of its life cycle,” e.tv said in a statement.

“We would like to sincerely thank the millions of loyal fans who have welcomed Scandal! into their homes over the years and supported it in becoming one of the most successful long-running soap operas in South African television history.”

What made Scandal! special wasn’t just its dramatic plot twists or memorable characters -though there were plenty of both.

The series became a mirror reflecting the complexities of everyday South African life, tackling real issues that resonated with viewers across the country. For almost two decades, it sparked conversations in homes, workplaces and social media spaces, providing entertainment that felt authentically local.

It gave local actors, writers, directors, and production teams a platform to showcase their talents while telling South African stories.

Helga Palmer, group head of local programming and strategy at eMedia, captured the bittersweet nature of this farewell:
“We are proud of what Scandal! has achieved, not only as a top-rated television property but also as a vital part of South Africa’s cultural landscape.

“We thank the entire production team, the cast past and present, and our loyal viewers for making this journey extraordinary.”

e.tv has extended heartfelt gratitude to Ochre Media, the production company that brought Scandal! to life throughout its run.

Stan Joseph, executive producer at Ochre Moving Pictures, reflected on what the series has meant to everyone involved:
“Producing Scandal! has been an incredible journey and a true labour of love. For close to twenty years, our writers, directors, actors and crew have poured their hearts into bringing authentic South African stories to life.”

Joseph continued: “We are deeply grateful to e.tv for their trust and to our audiences for their unwavering support. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye, we are proud of the legacy that Scandal! leaves behind.”

Scandal! will continue to air until the end of June 2026, giving viewers time to process this goodbye while ensuring the series receives the send-off it deserves.

For fans, this means they have a few more months to savour every episode, every plot twist, every character moment. *News24*