Entertainment
Actress Xolile Urges Fair Treatment of Actors Amid Ongoing Challenges in South Africa’s Film and TV Industry
Veteran South African actress Xolile Tshabalala has publicly raised concerns about working conditions within the local film and television industry, calling on producers to address what she describes as ongoing exploitation of actors and crew members, particularly during a time of broader economic pressure.
In an emotional Instagram Reel shared recently, Tshabalala clarified that her message was not directed at ethical producers who treat creatives fairly, but rather at those she believes contribute to systemic problems through unfair labour practices. She warned that continued exploitation risks weakening an industry already under financial strain.
In the video, Tshabalala spoke directly about issues related to unpaid work, delayed payments, and wages that do not reflect agreed-upon budgets. She criticised situations where productions claim limited funds while visible spending elsewhere suggests otherwise.
“I want to speak specifically to the producers who ill-treat actors, who don’t pay actors and crew, who don’t pay them fairly,” she said, adding that transparency around budgets is often lacking.
Her comments reflect long-standing concerns raised by industry professionals about inconsistent payment structures and the lack of enforcement mechanisms to protect freelancers and contract workers in the creative sector.
Tshabalala also addressed what she described as a culture where actors are labelled as “difficult” for requesting fair compensation or basic labour protections such as overtime pay. According to her, this environment discourages performers from speaking up out of fear of losing future work.
She further criticised intimidation tactics where actors are told they can be easily replaced if they decline low-paying offers, arguing that such practices undermine professionalism and mutual respect within the industry.
One of the central points in Tshabalala’s message focused on veteran and elderly actors. She expressed concern that many long-serving performers are being sidelined and left in financial hardship despite decades of contribution to South Africa’s cultural landscape.
Her comments echo broader public conversations about the lack of long-term security, pensions, and institutional support for creatives once their on-screen opportunities decline.
The actress’s message resonated with many social media users, including fellow actors and fans, who shared their own concerns about the state of the industry. Several commenters highlighted past instances where well-known performers reportedly faced financial struggles later in life, calling for structural reform and accountability.
While some have expressed hope that government intervention or policy reform could help stabilise the sector, Tshabalala cautioned that meaningful change would require ethical conduct from within the industry itself.
“We’re in this together. When this industry dies, we all die,” she said.
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