Generations saga in new twist

THE “Generations 16” are planning to pull the rug out from under the feet of the soapie’s founding producer, Mfundi Vundla by launching their own series.

JOHANNESBURG — THE “Generations 16” are planning to pull the rug out from under the feet of the soapie’s founding producer, Mfundi Vundla by launching their own series.

This development, classified “top secret” by those leading the plan, was revealed by one of the players involved in the coup.

Durban multimillionaire power couple Sbu and Shauwn Mpisane were reportedly going to pour millions into the new soap.

Sophie Ndaba, who played Queen and Winnie Ntshaba (Khethiwe) are understood to be the kingpins behind the move.

Plans of the new series were discussed last week in Durban at Ntshaba’s birthday party.

Generations was suspended from SABC1 at the end of September after months of wrangling between Vundla and the actors over salaries.

The soapie is expected to return in December.

The youth education drama Skeem Saam has been slotted into the popular 8pm spot while Vundla and crew are cooking up a new show.

Shauwn Mpisane denied they were bankrolling the new venture.

“Why would I fund a soapie? I was not approached to fund any soapie and it’s not my territory,” she said.

But a production member of the new soapie, who did not want to be named, said the plans were at an advanced stage, though the Mpisanes were angry when they heard the secret was out.

“Obey Muchipisi, who is a scriptwriter for Generations, was approached by Mcoseleli Mlobeli (producer and director) to write the treatment for the new story. They had disagreements and Obey didn’t want to be part of the plot against his employer,” said the source.

Mlobeli said: “I can’t comment because that thing got very ugly. I don’t want my name involved in that conversation.”

Muchipisi said: “Too much drama. No further comment.”

The source said Ntshaba was furious when she heard that the “top secret” was out.

“She called Obey, who told her that he had a story that would suit the fired actors. She then asked him to e-mail her so that she can take it to the Mpisanes.”

Our mole said the Mpisanes were curious to know who might have leaked the news.

Ndaba said she knew nothing about a new soap. Vundla said it was news to him. – Sunday World