SAFTAs 17: MultiChoice Group wins 45 Awards

MultiChoice group marked a triumphant evening at this year's South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) held at the Gallagher Convention Centre.

This echoes the group’s commitment to celebrating African stories and talent, MultiChoice Group dominated both evenings by scooping a total of 45 awards. 

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All the big winners

Among the highlights, Lavish was recognised as the Best TV Drama, and Gaia secured its spot with the Best Feature Film Award while Legacy took home the Best Telenovela Award.

For her role in the popular Showmax comedy Tali's Joburg Diary, Kate Normington won her second SAFTA, making the total of Showmax wins 10. James Bothwick took his third SAFTA as best actor in a comedy for the character Ferdie in Hotel, 

The co-host for the night and the face of Big Brother Mzansi Lawrence Maleka exemplified his exceptional talent by winning Best Actor in a Telenovela for his role as Zolani in The River. The awards were broadcast live on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161).

"Tonight, more than ever, the MultiChoice group and all our beloved titles and brands reaffirmed our position as the true home of entertainment, our commitment to providing a stage for African storytellers to shine has never been stronger. Their narratives, their passion, and their talent are what drive us to excel," Nomsa Philiso, CEO: General Entertainment for the MultiChoice Group.

In a poignant moment of the evening, Derek Watts, a stalwart in South African television and investigative journalism, was honoured with the Lifetime Achiever Award. 

Click here for a full list of the winners from the Saturday, 30 September live event.

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