PICTURE: X/ IDOLS SA
The collaboration deal between Primedia studios and Opulent Entertainment Group may see South African versions of talent shows returning on screens.
Among those shows are Idols SA, The Voice SA and Project Runway SA. Upon hearing the news, some netizens were excited while some questioned their return.
Entertainment commentator, Phil Mphela took to his X (former Twitter) page to break the news. He reported that Primedia Studios has signed a collaboration deal with Opulent Entertainment Group, and as part of the deal, the pair will co-produce South African versions of talent shows.
“Primedia Studios serves as a content licensor in South Africa in that it aquifers rights for existing IPs then produces for local broadcasters. While those titles may return, it doesn’t mean they will be on the same platforms they were before — Idols SA may end up on Netflix or SABC and not Mzansi Magic,” he said.
TITBIT:
Idols SA and The Voice SA revival?
Primedia Studios has signed a collaboration deal with Opulent Entertainment Group, and as part of the deal, the pair will co-produce South African versions of talent shows.
According to the press release, we are set to see Idols SA,… pic.twitter.com/wM881DYZIf
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) September 3, 2025
Idols SA was a singing competition that showcased the singing talent of unsigned artist. The show ended after its 19th season in 2023.
X users weighed in:
As for idols I personally feel they had become less representative of the broader South African diversity.
— Lorrenzo Diego (@lorrenzom) September 3, 2025
Imagine Khaya Mthethwa, Zonke & Langa Mavuso as Judges🤭
Mara no SomG is needed somehow
— Menzie Sphesihle kay🌈 (@SphesihleVil) September 3, 2025
What I would like to see is a similar concept to Coca-Cola popstars where artists, producers and songwriters come together to create beautiful jams. I think Eurovision is a similar concept.
I’m tired of watching people perform covers of songs.
— Siya Tshabalala (@Siya_Tshabz) September 3, 2025