The Hangout: From TV blockbusters to pass the remote
It was 1992 and television was a very different beast. There weren’t nineteen streaming platforms and six remotes to lose down the side of the couch.
I recall the first airing of Egoli: Place of Gold in 1992, a time when families gathered for Friday night card games and Sunday braais. TV presenters announced upcoming programs, and stars Scott Scott and Ashley Hayden were adored. Gone were the days of nineteen streaming platforms and countless remotes. Back then, when a show was on, everyone tuned in.
Egoli premiered on MNet on April 6, 1992, and captivated South Africans with its drama, glamour, and relatable characters. Families planned their evenings around their favorite shows, and missing an episode was a problem. A decade later, I became friends with one of the show's writers. I became an extra on Egoli and enjoyed behind-the-scenes access.
The show ran for 18 years, leaving a lasting impact on South African television. Alongside Egoli, we also enjoyed American and British series like Days of Our Lives, The Bold and the Beautiful, Fawlty Towers, and Coronation Street. The 2000s brought Desperate Housewives, Lost, Prison Break, and Grey's Anatomy, which captivated audiences.
With numerous streaming platforms now available, we have instant access to countless shows, often feeling disappointed by waiting a week for new episodes. South African television has thrived, with shows like Isidingo, Generations, 7de Laan, Scandal!, and Binnelanders becoming cultural staples. The local industry continues to produce exceptional content, celebrating the talent of South African actors, writers, directors, and crews.
As we celebrate our achievements, we can reflect on how far television has come since those family gatherings to watch Egoli.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
