7de Laan staff down tools after SABC fails to pay

In July, it was announced that Afrikaans soapie 7de Laan which has been running for 23 years will be coming to an end in December. 7de Laan staff has since halted production following money matters.

7de Laan says the halt comes after payment delays by the SABC. “This decision has been made with careful consideration and is necessary to address ongoing financial challenges stemming from delayed payments. We want to emphasise that every member of our cast and crew has been paid in full for all the episodes they have delivered thus far.

Despite the production not receiving its scheduled payments from SABC, the production company used its own funds in order to continue production and ensure that our cast and crew received their salaries. “We remain hopeful for a resolution with SABC which will allow us to resume production in the near future. We appreciate the understanding and support of our viewers, staff, and stakeholders during this temporary pause.”

Danie Odendaal Productions responsible for the show sent letters to staff members stating the reasons for the downing of tools. “This letter serves to inform you that management has made a decision to suspend the normal 7de Laan operations with immediate effect due to insufficient funds to maintain salaries and other operations,” the letter reads. The broadcaster has been struggling to make the necessary payments timely to the production and making it difficult to maintain the daily productions requirements.” The letter states that staff is not required to be at the studios due to this. “Management will communicate as soon as possible when you can resume normal duties