Idols SA and other talent shows making a big return to TV
The South African television landscape is gearing up for the return of some beloved talent shows.
Entertainment analyst Phil Mphela announced on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, that Idols SA, The Voice SA, and Project Runway SA will be making their way back to audiences thanks to a new production partnership.
The cherished singing competition Idols SA was discontinued in 2023 after completing 19 seasons, leaving a significant number of fans disheartened.
Thanks to a joint effort between Primedia Studios and Opulent Entertainment Group, this show, along with two other prominent franchises, is set for a revival.
“Primedia Studios has struck a collaboration agreement with Opulent Entertainment Group, and as part of the arrangement, they will co-produce South African variations of talent shows. The press release specifies that we can expect to see Idols SA, The Voice SA, alongside Project Runway SA make their comeback on our screens,” Mphela disclosed.
However, he noted that the shows might not appear on their former platforms.
“Even if those titles return, it doesn’t guarantee they will be seen on the same channels as before — Idols SA could find its home on either Netflix or SABC, rather than Mzansi Magic,” he explained.
Fans took to social media to express their enthusiasm about the news, with some proposing suggestions for improving the shows.
Mphela himself expressed his approval of the developments, remarking: “I love and miss family-friendly television. I’m all in. It would be nice to try and produce original South African concepts, but my emo-tainment and telenovelas fatigue means I’m happy to take this.”
TITBIT:
Idols SA and The Voice SA revival?
Primedia Studios has signed a collaboration deal with Opulent Entertainment Group, and as part of the deal, the pair will co-produce South African versions of talent shows.
According to the press release, we are set to see Idols SA,… pic.twitter.com/wM881DYZIf
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) September 3, 2025
