TV soapie Scandal! to End After More Than 20 Years on screen
One of South Africa’s most beloved soap operas, Scandal!, will come to an end in June 2026, e.tv announced this week. The show, which has been a fixture on the channel for over two decades, will air its final episode next year, marking the end of an era in local television.
Launched in 2005, Scandal! quickly grew into a household name, entertaining millions of South Africans with gripping storylines, unforgettable characters, and powerful performances. The show’s creators consistently set new benchmarks in local television, often reflecting the complexities of everyday life while sparking national conversations.
According to e.tv, the decision to bring the curtain down on Scandal! was influenced by the evolving television landscape, where broadcasters must regularly review programming to keep up with changing audience needs. “We believe that Scandal! has reached the end of its life cycle,” the channel said in a statement.
Helga Palmer, Group Head of Local Programming and Strategy at eMedia, praised the production team for their contribution to South African television culture. “We are proud of what Scandal! has achieved, not only as a top-rated television property but also as a vital part of South Africa’s cultural landscape. We thank the entire production team, the cast past and present, and our loyal viewers for making this journey extraordinary,” she said.
The series was produced by Ochre Media, whose team worked closely with e.tv for nearly two decades. Stan Joseph, Executive Producer at Ochre Media, described the journey as a “true labour of love.” He added: “For close to twenty years, our writers, directors, actors, and crew have poured their hearts into bringing authentic South African stories to life. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye, we are proud of the legacy Scandal! leaves behind.”
Fans can still look forward to new episodes until June 2026, when the show will officially air its final curtain call. e.tv has assured viewers that the finale will be a memorable one, giving audiences the chance to continue enjoying the drama as it moves toward its conclusion.
The channel also expressed gratitude to the millions of loyal viewers who supported Scandal! throughout its run, helping it become one of the most successful long-running soap operas in South African history.