Picture: Instagram/ @KagisoyaBakwena
South African actor, director, and producer Kagiso Modupe starts a new chapter in his career, launching a new, innovative production company called Modupe Productions.
Also see: Kagiso Modupe speaks out on ‘Pimville’ payment controversy
Modupe Productions takes effect
The award-winning actor announced the launch of the production company, describing it as a contemporary approach to storytelling. The company will focus on films and short-form storytelling for audiences in South Africa and beyond.
According to the announcement posted on the actor’s Instagram page, Modupe Studios will produce a slate of new films, as well as vertical micro-dramas released exclusively on the African vertical streaming platform, Hektik.
IOL reports that this announcement comes months after Modupe was in the middle of controversy surrounding Bakwena Productions, the production company he co-founded with long-time business partner Rashaka Muofhe.
Also see: Inside Mandla N and Kagiso Modupe’s reported R4.2 million fallout
Moving from Bakwena Productions to Modupe Studios
The actor had a long-standing professional relationship with Muofhe, and it all strengthened when they built Bakwena Productions together. The production studio is behind projects such as Losing Lerato, Thando, Ingoma: The Song, Losing Lerato 2, and Pound 4 Pound.
However, the duo fell under immense pressure following issues that ensued surrounding the SABC 2 telenovela Pimville.
It’s reported that the SABC discontinued the series in May after 75 episodes, following unresolved contractual obligations. The broadcaster said it had fulfilled its contractual obligations to Bakwena and was up to date with its payments.
Modupe distances himself from the controversy
The Scandal! actor addressed the controversy back in May. He shared a video statement clarifying the role he played in the Pimville production amid reports that cast, crew and suppliers had not been paid.
In the same video, Modupe revealed that he had been working on rebranding Bakwena Productions into Modupe Studios for about a year. Further distancing the studio and himself from the Pimville controversy, suggesting this transition was in development prior to the controversy.
Also see: Kagiso Modupe’s SAFTA speech divides cast members still seeking payment
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