In another global first for BET Africa (DStv 129), a star studded local cast headlines the launch of a gripping and sensational BET Africa Original daily drama titled Isono (The Sin). Airing on BET Africa from 27 July at 21:30, the vernacular titled daily drama is co-produced by BET Africa and Clive Morris Productions.
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The introduction of a telenovela format for the BET Africa channel is a significant investment into the local production industry. Isono will broadcast to audiences across the continent and is set to take African storytelling to the world.
Isono is based on the story of a dysfunctional family and a heroic son who searches within himself for the strength to stand up against a powerful and evil matriarch who will stop at nothing to serve her own needs.
The edgy and fast paced telenovela features legendary and award winning actors, Nthati Moshesh and Rami Chuene who bring gravitas to the new show.
Nthati Moshesh will play the protagonist and the antihero Mary, a ruthless woman of faith. Rami Chuene joins the cast as Jumima aka Juju, an eccentric gossipmonger who often buys into occasional conspiracy theories and gets the wrong end of the stick by making odd connections and pronouncements.
Introducing Jumima aka AuntyJuju on @BET_Africa’s Original daily Drama #IsonoBET. Catch this #BETAfricaOriginal with @CMPTVee starting 27th July every Mon-Fri @ 21:30 CAT. pic.twitter.com/fIGCZ5M1GS
— Rami Chuene🌈🏳️🌈 (@ramichuene) June 11, 2020
“Africans are amongst the most passionate and dedicated viewers of daily dramas. We are proud to be able to contribute to this rich culture of authentic local storytelling. ISONO features an award winning cast who deliver an edgy storyline that is set to resonate with local viewers. The daily BET original production will inspire, vividly entertain, intrigue and also educate audiences with surprising twists and unexpected cliff hangers. 21:30 weekday viewing is set to change. Be sure to watch this groundbreaking TV experience,” says Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Editorial for ViacomCBS Networks Africa.
“I cannot express what a milestone this is for the South African entertainment industry. To take such an admired art form, celebrated by millions of South Africans and put it on a global platform is an accomplishment we can all be proud of. I am humbled by the opportunity and look forward to sharing this powerful story with audiences across the world,” says Nthati Moshesh, lead cast member and one of South Africa’s most revered actresses.
Senzo Radebe and Bohang Moeko are cast to play smoking young guns who will bring passion, excitement and betrayal into the storyline. By bringing young complex black characters to the screen, BET Africa continues to do what it’s celebrated for as a black entertainment platform; amplifying and educating global audiences about the richness and nuances of black culture.
Also joining the cast are celebrated actor and entertainer – Anga ‘Naakmusiq’ Makubalo, rising star – Tokollo ‘TK’ Sebothoma and 2019 winner of the Naledi Theatre Award – Didintle Khunou.
Isono will be the first African telenovela to air to an international market and is produced by Clive Morris Productions (CMP), who have successfully produced award winning content, have a depth of industry understanding and won accolades both locally and internationally.
Clive Morris, founder and CEO of CMP added, “We’ve been knocking on this co-producing door for some time now – and it’s wonderful to see it swing wide open with BET. It is a maturing of our industry. It’s a privilege that BET Africa partnered with us to bring their very first telenovela to life.”
“Developing young black talent is one of my passions and this project has enabled that in a big way. I watch with pride as new voices are breaking free and taking their gifts of storytelling to the world. Our COO, Khaylihle Dom Gumede and MD, Lala Tuku, are working tirelessly behind the scenes to raise the bar with ISONO, and we believe that with the dynamic, talented cast and crew, this show will be a trend setter,” concludes Morris.
The Isono daily drama brings to audiences the suspense and intrigue of the dual nature of human personalities; the things we reveal about ourselves and the things that make people wonder: “what are you hiding?”
Isono premieres on BET Africa (DStv 129) on 27 July at 21:30. For more information, visit https://www.dstv.co.za/whats-on/shows/best-of-local/isono/
Watch Isono Trailer below:
Image Courtesy: supplied