Sizwe Dhlomo dragged for defending the Fergusons – They took all the risks
Sizwe Dhlomo found himself in the midst of a Twitter storm on Monday evening when he was accused of defending Connie and Shona Ferguson, owners of Ferguson Films, against allegations of mistreating actors.
Sizwe weighed in on claims contained in an open letter by iGazi actress Vatiswa Ndara to arts and culture minister Nathi Mthethwa on Monday.
Responding to a tweet saying actors were generally exploited, Sizwe said the industry was broke.
“In a lot of ways, this is true but also the industry is broke if we’re being honest. Cats just won’t tell you that.”
A follower then said the Fergusons were part of the problem.
Sizwe told the fan the couple had taken a risk and if people wanted to be bosses they must “pay the cost”.
“Sho, I hear that and I don’t even know the Fergusons but from what I’ve seen, they took all the risks. Quit their jobs at SABC to build their own thing. If cats want to be bosses, they must also pay the cost ke. Not to say that people must get exploited kodwa.”
While some agreed with Sizwe, many slammed him for “defending” the power couple and said he was blind to the mistreatment many actors in Mzansi faced.
Sizwe…. sometimes… just don’t. https://t.co/tbkBFJZVlO
— PennyLebyane💚Penny Lebyane (@PennyLebyane) October 7, 2019
These kind of ignorance is what keeps our people at the perfect position for exploitation.
— PennyLebyane💚Penny Lebyane (@PennyLebyane) October 7, 2019
Meanwhile, iGazi actor Anga Makubalo applauded Vatiswa for speaking out. He also said the show may soon be recast.
Enkosi Sis V 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 let us pray that our cries will finally be heard.
— Anga Makubalo (@NaakMusiQ) October 7, 2019
The 80k is ONCE OFF!!! After the 5 weeks you have to go find another Job as an actor! That 80k will run out while the producers are making millions off the talents art. Why is everyone thinking it’s 80k a month? Did no one read the letter? https://t.co/LHvnmISknv
— Anga Makubalo (@NaakMusiQ) October 8, 2019
We will probably be recast! https://t.co/cji0H8LsCw
— Anga Makubalo (@NaakMusiQ) October 7, 2019
Actress Pearl Thusi said mistreatment was the reason she had not worked on local production in years.
Why I haven’t worked in local productions in years clearly apparent in tonight’s discussions.
Why I had over 4 jobs at some stage to afford my home and pay my bills also apparent.
🍿🍿🍿
Why actors need to strengthen the union also apparent.
Good night kids ❤️
— #QueenSono (@PearlThusi) October 7, 2019
Florence Masebe, a strong advocate for actors’ rights in SA, said more brave voices were needed but warned that those who spoke up were often victimized.
We need more gatvol voices to call out the mess in the South African television industry. Thank you Vatiswa Ndara for your bravery. We have to stand with you. All of us. @theVati_Can
— Mme a Masakona (@FloMasebe) October 7, 2019
Victimization is rife. Those who dare speak their truth in the arts are often ostracized. There are many who want to scream out their version of the prevalent exploitation. Scary, unbelievable stories. They are afraid. Understandably so. #IstandWithVatiswa 🎭
— Mme a Masakona (@FloMasebe) October 7, 2019
In other news – Keke Mphuthi says she almost lost her baby due to stress caused by the Fergusons
Vatiswa Ndara’s open letter to minister Nathi Mthetwa inspired other actors to share their stories of exploitation.
An open letter to Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa written by actress Vatiswa Ndara has inspired other South African actors to speak out at the exploitation they have faced at the hands of local production houses and distribution channels. continue reading
Source: TshisaLive
