Mzansi Magic is bidding farewell to two of its popular telenovelas, ‘Genesis’ and ‘iThonga,’ as production has officially wrapped on both series after a run of 260 episodes each. The conclusion marks the end of storylines crafted with definitive arcs, according to the broadcaster, but promises a dramatic finish for viewers.
Even as fans brace for the final chapters, the end dates differ for each display. ‘iThonga’ will air its last episode next Friday, February 27th, at 8:30 PM, bringing the story of the twins Banele and Sanele to a close. ‘Genesis,’ which uniquely explored the world of gospel music, will continue to air until April 2026, allowing audiences more time with its characters and unfolding drama. This decision to conclude both series after a set number of episodes reflects a strategic approach to storytelling, ensuring narratives reach a natural and satisfying conclusion.
Tebogo Matlawa, Head of Scripted Content: Middle & Mass at MultiChoice Group, a CANAL+ company, expressed excitement for viewers to experience the remaining episodes. “We are so excited to see how fans enjoy the rest of the respective seasons of Genesis and iThonga,” Matlawa said. “These shows were written with fixed storylines and character arcs in mind and produced to the highest level of quality for our viewers to enjoy. As those stories have now run their charted courses, they’ll take their place in the Mzansi Magic library of thrilling telenovelas, with exciting novel shows in the works to take their place.”
A Unique Space in South African Television
‘Genesis’ distinguished itself as a first-of-its-kind series in South Africa, delving into the complexities of the gospel music industry. The show’s producers, Singa Vision Productions, are being lauded for maximizing all 260 episodes to deliver a “powerful, well-researched, and impactful story,” according to Matlawa. Executive and series producer Sinini Mati explained the intention behind the show was to create relatable characters and authentically portray the intersection of faith and business. “Genesis was about setting a relatable world and characters that people could identify with. We felt we had a fresh approach to bringing back gospel music in our homes, while showing that it’s as much a business as the rest of the music business,” she stated. The series also featured appearances from prominent gospel artists, including Mmatema Moremi, Thinah Zungu, Lebo Sekgobela, Xoli Mncwango, and Rebecca Malope, adding to its authenticity and appeal.
Honoring Culture and Storytelling in ‘iThonga’
‘iThonga’ has been praised for its culturally rich storytelling and the cast’s compelling performances. Matlawa highlighted the show’s sensitivity and respect in portraying sacred customs, particularly through Bonko Khoza’s dual role as twins Banele and Sanele. “iThonga has continuously showcased incredibly versatile storytelling in fully embracing some of the culture’s most sacred customs and playing them out on screen with sensitivity and respect. The cast did a phenomenal job… portraying traditional rituals, from burial rites to issues of surrogacy and dealing with grief, with honour and faithfulness,” she said.
Phathutshedzo Makwarela, the creator and writer of ‘iThonga,’ confirmed that the storyline of the twins was always intended to be self-contained within a single season. “When we began telling the story of Sanele and Banele, we knew that it was a story that would have its beginning and conclusion in a single season. It has been an honour to witness the crafting of every character, every plot twist and every moment and we are grateful to the viewers who have made this a pleasurable and unforgettable journey,” Makwarela explained.
Despite the completion of filming, Matlawa assured viewers that plenty of drama remains in store before both series conclude. Pre-production is already underway for a new Mzansi Magic telenovela, promising a fresh world and story for audiences to engage with. The broadcaster is committed to continuing to deliver high-quality, engaging content to its viewers, building on the success of shows like ‘Genesis’ and ‘iThonga.’
As ‘Genesis’ continues its run through April and ‘iThonga’ prepares for its final broadcast, fans are encouraged to tune in for the concluding chapters of these beloved series. The end of these telenovelas signals not just the close of compelling narratives, but also the beginning of a new era for Mzansi Magic, with exciting new stories on the horizon.
What are your thoughts on the endings of ‘Genesis’ and ‘iThonga’? Share your favorite moments and predictions for the final episodes in the comments below!