From 101 to Ghetto Lingo and Jamali, Popstars has a track record of producing quality bands and groups. Problem is, the show - which used to air on the SABC - disappeared a while ago and hasn't been seen since.
Until now...
e.tv has confirmed that they have bought the rights to the singing talent contest and will be airing the show exclusively from 4 September this year.
The channel has promised to "bring more twists, turns and stings in the tail when aspiring singers compete for the ultimate prize: celebrity status as a Pop Star."
Popstars has enjoyed great success in South Africa and brought instant stardom to groups like 101, Adilah, Ghetto Lingo and Jamali.
Says Monde Twala, Group Head Channels Division at e.tv: "South Africa is blessed with talented individuals and e.tv Popstars spans beyond just showcasing talent.
"Popstars will search for the best and then nurture and encourage tomorrow’s stars and help fulfil their dreams beyond the TV show. It’s going to be fun, interactive entertainment at its best!"
In case you need a refresher course in the format of the show: wannabe singers go through a first audition with the judges, whereby they decide which aspiring stars make it through to the gruelling 'call-backs' round.
Contestants need to keep their wits about them if they want to impress the vocal coaches in the following rounds. Every move, note sung and word spoken by the wannabe’s will be monitored by the judges and this ultimately determines who will make it to the Top 10.
Once the Top 10 are chosen, the real hard work begins. From make-up sessions to photo shoots to group-singing and more training sessions with the vocal trainers – the Top 10 will really have to show what they’re made of.
Of those Top 10 contestants, a group will be chosen as the new Popstars. Aside from their looks and singing ability, they have to be able to perform under extreme pressure.
Popstars is produced by Mzanzi Crew (which Jamali forms part of) in conjunction with Tartan Sound and Video who brought Popstars to South Africa in 2002.
The Popstars brand also enjoys international exposure second to none. Some countries that have held successful Popstars have been the USA, France, Netherlands, Germany, Russia, Turkey, Spain, Romania, Slovenia and India.
"Prepare yourself for more tears, more talent and more music as we follow the stories of aspiring South African hopefuls as they are transformed into Popstars", says Brett Lindsay, who directs the show.
About the HostFormer member of Ghetto Lingo, Martin Phike, shows off his talents in a different way as the new host of Popstars.
Phike is making a name for himself in the South African entertainment industry. A career that started in high school at the age of 16 has opened lots of opportunities for him.
Martin has formed part of bands like Max cui, Inadiflo and Ghetto Lingo (Popstars winners). He has also worked with stars such as Brenda Fassie, Mandoza and TKZee.
His work in the South African television industry has included a role on the soapie Backstage and various others.