Rami Chuene sparks hope for actors after SABC repeat fee announcement

by Zintle Mdaka
Rami Chuene sparks hope for actors.

South African actress Rami Chuene has sparked widespread optimism in the local entertainment industry after reports that the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) had agreed to begin paying repeat fees to actors whose work continues to air on its platforms.

Also see: Rami Chuene urges artists to read their contracts

The development has been widely welcomed as a long-awaited breakthrough for performers who, for years, have raised concerns about not receiving additional compensation when productions are rebroadcast. Rami, who has been vocal about artists’ rights and fair pay in the industry, described the move as a significant step forward for creatives who rely on royalties and residual income.

Recently, Rami took to her X (formerly Twitter) page to announce that she had received communication from the SABC telling her they will be paying her repeat fees for her work on Giyani: Land of Blood. 

A long-standing issue for SA actors

For decades, many South African actors have argued that while their performances continue to generate value through reruns and syndication, they often do not benefit financially beyond their original contracts. The introduction of repeat fees is therefore being viewed as a potential shift toward fairer industry practices.

Industry stakeholders say the move could help stabilise performers’ income, especially in a sector where work is often inconsistent and freelance-based.

Rami’s response resonates

Rami’s reaction to the news quickly gained traction on social media, where many users echoed her sentiment that actors deserve compensation for the ongoing use of their work. Her comments have reignited broader conversations about labour rights within South Africa’s creative industries.

Fans and fellow performers also praised the development, calling it a “victory for persistence” and a step toward aligning local broadcasting standards with global practices.

Also see: Sindi Dlathu, Rami Chuene to feature in new Tshedza Pictures show

What this could mean for the industry

If implemented consistently, repeat fees could reshape how contracts are structured between actors, production companies, and broadcasters. It may also encourage greater transparency around royalties and intellectual property rights in television and film.

Also see: Rami Chuene to publish 2nd edition of her book

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