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 popular South African soapie 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.
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 to 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 citizens have also learnt to speak Afrikaans because of 7de Laan by listening to the language and reading the English subtitles.
7de Laan’s impact and successful run
The much-loved series won a range of awards 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.
“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” – Head of Content for Video Entertainment for SABC, Lala Tuku
“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.” Thandi Ramathesele, Executive Producer of 7de Laan
As we bid a fond farewell to the show, SABC 2 has extended its deep gratitude to the cast and crew of 7de Laan. The channel also thanked the millions of viewers and fans for tuning in every Monday to Friday for the past 23 years.
