Mzansi’s beloved soapie "Skeem Saam" faced a frightening setback after a fire reportedly broke out on set at Sasani Studios, leaving one crew member hospitalised.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela broke the news on Monday via his verified X account. According to the post, the fire erupted while an episode was being filmed, and one crew member found themselves trapped in the studio, sustaining injuries before being rushed to hospital.
Mphela shared: “Skeem Saam set goes up in flames - crew member hospitalised. (The) fire broke out during shooting on the set of Skeem Saam at Sasani Studios. Sadly, one crew member got stuck in the studio and sustained injuries. The individual was taken to hospital.”
While the extent of the damage to the set remains unknown, and it's unclear whether the incident will disrupt the show’s production schedule.
NEWS:
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) February 24, 2025
Skeem Saam set goes up in flames — crew member hospitalized
Fire broke-out during shooting on the set of Skeem Saam at Sasani Studios.
Sadly one crew member got stuck in the studio and sustaining injuries. The individual was taken to hospital. #KgopoloReports pic.twitter.com/XvX0nApf80
Sasani Studios is no stranger to high-profile productions, filming some of Mzansi’s biggest TV shows, including “Generations: The Legacy,” and “Scandal!.”
Given its significance in South Africa’s entertainment landscape, any disruption at Sasani has a ripple effect across multiple productions.
This isn’t the first time a tragic incident has occurred on a TV set. In a previous case, a crew member passed away after suffering injuries on the set of “Scandal!" sparking discussions about safety.
During routine operations on Friday, November 22, crew member Gary Megit sustained severe injuries while assisting in moving a section of the set.
But despite prompt medical attention, Megit succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
We are saddened by the loss of our dear crew member, Gary Megit, after a tragic on-set accident. Our hearts go out to Gary’s family. He was cherished, and his loss will be felt by all who worked with him. He will remain in our hearts forever. #GoneButNotForgotten pic.twitter.com/8BAzr2fj34
— Scandal! (@etvScandal) November 26, 2024
This incident has intensified discussions about on-set safety protocols within the local entertainment sector.With the latest fire incident at “Skeem Saam,” concerns about working conditions and fire safety measures have once again come under scrutiny.
While “Skeem Saam” producers have yet to release an official statement, the South African Guild of Actors (SAGA) and other industry bodies have long advocated for stricter safety protocols to protect cast and crew members.
“Skeem Saam” has been a staple in South African television since 2011, with millions of loyal viewers tuning in every weekday. Any delays in filming could impact future episodes, though the studio has yet to confirm if adjustments will be needed.