26 June 2024

016FM S1

To save their much-loved community radio station in the Vaal from closing, two polar opposite DJs prepare to compete in a radical, live on-air programme battle (Kwaal). They know it will be a fight to reclaim the hearts of listeners and advertisers, but don’t realise they will also have to oust a dangerous, shadowy syndicate that has infiltrated the station.

SAFTA nominee Mpho Sebeng (Ring of Lies, Miseducation), who tragically passed away in May 2024, stars as DJ Whiskey - his last role. His co-stars include Joseph Sedibo (Rhythm City) as DJ Tsietsi and the likes of four-time SAFTA winner Nthati Moshesh (Saints & Sinners, Isono), SAFTA winner Sophie Ndaba (Lockdown), Sello Motloung (The Wife), Katleho Mabote (Outlaws), Mapula Mafole (Rhythm City), Noni Mafani (1802: Love Defies Time), Mapaseka Koetle (Lenyalo Ha Se Papadi) and YFM DJ Caddy Tsotsetsi.

016FM is executive produced by Motswako star DJ Lemonka and author Tuelo Gabonewe, as the first scripted series from their production company, 2gotomedia. Nolo Phiri (Umkhokha: The Curse, eHostela) and Percy Vilakazi (The River) are producing.

“The Vaal is the Little Italy of South Africa,” says DJ Lemonka. “It’s a hotbed of creativity and musical influence that extends across South Africa, but that hasn’t received the props it deserved until now. I think people are going to be amazed by how much talent there is in The Vaal.”

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