'7de Laan' comes to an end
After 23 years on air, SABC 2 and Danie Odendaal Productions announced that the long-running popular soapie '7de Laan' will not be recommissioned for another season when season 24 comes to an end in December 2023.
The brainchild of Danie Odendaal, '7de Laan' made its debut on SABC 2 on 4 April 2000, bringing to life much-loved characters such as Oubaas, Hilda, Charmaine, Aggie, Emma, and the Meintjies family who all became household names.
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'7de Laan' focuses on the lives of residents staying in and around the community of '7de Laan' in the suburb of Hillside. Originally presented in Afrikaans only, the show has gone through many transformations reflective of a changing society through the introduction of various dynamic characters, storylines and languages from other races and cultures, reflecting the rich diversity of our country.
'7de Laan' certainly made its contribution in assisting South Africans make the transition to a democratic state by dealing with issues such as interracial and homosexual relationships. Over the years it has also dealt with many social ills including gender-based violence, drug addiction, kidnappings and human trafficking. Many South Africans have also learnt to speak Afrikaans because of '7de Laan' by listening to the language and reading the English subtitles.
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In its trophy cupboard sits many awards that '7de Laan' has won throughout its life span including the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in the categories of Best Soapie and was voted as the Most Popular Soapie in the Royalty Soapie Awards this year and Outstanding Female Villain award won by Deirdre Wolhuter for her portrayal of Mariaan Welman.
Head of Content for Video Entertainment for SABC, Lala Tuku said that "SABC is proud to have worked with Danie Odendaal Productions and been part of the journey leading and producing the best Afrikaans soapie on local television for SABC 2. '7de Laan' has penetrated the hearts of millions of South Africans. With iconic characters over the years, that still hold a place in the viewers hearts, powerful storylines crafted by a talented writing team engaged the audience on relevant topics. After more than two decades on air, the award winning 7de Laan leaves a lasting imprint on the SA television landscape. SABC wishes all the dedicated and talented cast and crew of 7de Laan all the best on their future endeavours".
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"It has been an honour and privilege to produce a show that has touched the lives of so many South Africans for over two decades. As we come to the end of this chapter, we express our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated cast and crew who have poured their talent and passion into bringing the show to life. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the viewers and fans whose unwavering support has been the driving force behind our success. It is bittersweet to say goodbye, but we are filled with pride for the impact that 7de Laan has had on our society, addressing important social issues and fostering inclusively, the show has made its mark on South African television. Thank you for being a part of this remarkable journey with us.", says Thandi Ramathesele, Executive Producer of '7de Laan'.
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As we bid a fond farewell to the show, SABC 2 extends its deep gratitude to the dedicated cast and crew of '7de Laan' under the leadership of Danie Odendaal and later Thandi Ramathesele. Most of all, the channel thanks the millions of viewers and fans for tuning in every day Monday to Friday for the past 23 years. Your loyalty, commitment and support are greatly appreciated!