A few days ago TVSA asked TopTV if they had acquired the rights to the new reality series Being Mandela, starring the former president's granddaughters, Swati (33) and Zaziwe (35), who spent their childhood years in exile in the USA.
The broadcaster denied they had the show, claiming they couldn't afford any new shows as they are in business administration, but today announced via press release that somehow, magically, they have indeed acquired the programme for an April premiere.
Here's the release:
FOX International Channels (FIC) has announced a multi-market deal for the highly anticipated "Being Mandela" reality series. FIC will be the exclusive first window pay-TV broadcaster in Africa, Latin America and Finland. The series is slated to debut internationally on the second quarter of 2013 across certain FIC's networks.
FOX International Channels (FIC) is expanding in the African TV market, by bring what the brand with fans is globally synonymous for; exceptional and exciting television programming through its first commission of a local TV reality show.
"We are excited about the growth of FIC in the burgeoning African market and are constantly working to integrate global shows with strong local programmes that will resonate with our region's TV audiences" said FOX International Channels Africa Director; Thandi Davids.
FIC develops and distributes wholly- and majority-owned entertainment, factual, sports, and movie channels in all markets across Africa, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The launch of "Being Mandela" will see FOX (Entertainment) begin to reclaim its position as the flagship channel for the company and a globally strong choice for entertainment lovers.
We look forward to continually ensuring that our strong programme mix of series, documentaries and riveting action are enjoyed by as many people as possible throughout Africa," she added.
With a stable of 30+ channel brands, FIC broadcasts over 200 television services in 35 languages. These networks and their related mobile, non-linear and high-definition extensions, reach over 380 million subscribing households worldwide.
In Africa, the company is home to FX, FOX Entertainment, FOX Retro, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Adventure, Nat Geo Gold, Fuel and BabyTV. The channels are available across Sub-Saharan Africa to viewers through multiple affiliate partners.