On 13 and 14 March 2026, the 19th Annual South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs19) hosted the long-awaited awards ceremony at the Gallagher Convention Centre. This event marked a significant moment in South Africa’s entertainment calendar celebrating the outstanding talent and creativity that have influenced the nation’s film and television industry over the past 18 months.
Under the unifying theme, “One Story. One Industry. One Future. – Celebrating South Africa’s Screen Legacy, Together,” SAFTAs19 offered a captivating tribute to 50 years of South Africa’s television storytelling. The ceremony spanned two nights, starting with the Craft awards streamed live on the SAFTAs YouTube channel. This was followed by the Red Carpet and Main Awards shows which were broadcast simultaneously on SABC 2 and Mzansi Magic (channel 161). The simulcast ensured wide accessibility, attracting viewers from diverse backgrounds to witness the celebration of outstanding work in film, television, soaps, dramas, and telenovelas.
The event was a star-studded gathering that brought together beloved actors, presenters, directors, producers, and behind-the-scenes professionals, showcasing the dedication required to create world-class content. This was captured beautifully in the layered décor and stage design. Guests included a mix of celebrities, government dignitaries, and key industry players, all joining forces to celebrate the exceptional contributions that continue to elevate South Africa’s screen industry.
As a display of both historical brilliance and contemporary talent, SAFTAs19 not only acknowledged past and present achievements but also ignited excitement for the future of South African storytelling. The awards ceremony reaffirmed the critical role of the industry in reflecting the nation’s diverse narratives and cultural heritage, while fostering a collective vision for its continued growth and innovation.
Hosting the main awards show were the witty, humorous, and charismatic duo of Anele Mgudlwa and Simphiwe “Alphi” Mkhwanazi. The Red Carpet show, was hosted by the young, talented pair of Pamela Mntanga and Katleho “Kat” Sinivasan, while Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp and Moshe Ndiki hosted the craft awards ceremony, which streamed live on the SAFTAs YouTube channel.
Guests and viewers were treated to a dynamic showcase featuring revered legends and rising stars of the South African music scene, creating an atmosphere rich in cultural pride and artistic excellence.
The main awards show opened with stirring performances by iconic figures Thebe and Mdu, setting a powerful tone that bridged the past and present of South African music. Esteemed artists Early B and the closing act, Kamo Mphela, captivated the audience. A deeply moving gospel tribute by Hle solemnly anchored the in-memoriam segment, honoring those who have passed but whose legacies endure.
Meanwhile, the Craft Award show featured beloved fan favorites such as the stylish Motswako rapper Khuli Chana, the pop, dance sound of guitarist Amy Tjasink, and Toss, with his upbeat Kwaito music and high-energy performance.
The SAFTAs congratulates all winners, who were honoured with the prestigious Golden Horn trophy—an emblem of excellence in South African film and television. This celebration not only highlights the creative brilliance within the industry but also underscores the rich musical heritage that continues to inspire and unite audiences in South Africa.
Tshedza Pictures scooped the most wins across both nights with 7 awards, including multiple wins for the critically acclaimed series iThonga, which secured awards for Best Actor in a Telenovela and Best Actress in a Telenovela. Gqeberha: The Empire won the Best Supporting Actor in a Telenovela. Other productions include Youngins winning Best Telenovela, Best Achievement in Directing – Telenovela, Best Achievement in Original Music/Score – Telenovela, and Best Achievement in Editing.
Quizzical Pictures and Wolflight Films closely followed with 6 Golden Horns each, while Ochre Media scooped up 5 Golden Horns.
Key Award Winners:
- Best Feature Film: Death of a Whistleblower
- Best Documentary Short: Mathonga Elizwe
- Best TV Drama: Reyka 2
- Best TV Soap: SCANDAL!
- Best Telenovela: Youngins
- Best TV Comedy: The Morning After
- Best Actress in a Feature Film: Sandra Prinsloo (A Kind of Madness)
- Best Actor in a Feature Film: Ian Roberts (A Kind of Madness)
- Best Actress in a TV Drama: Gail Mabalane (Unseen – Season 2)
- Best Actor in a TV Drama: Frank Opperman (Nêrens, Noord-Kaap Deel 2)
- Best Actress in a Telenovela: Nelisiwe Sibiya (iThonga)
- Best Actor in a Telenovela: Bonko Khoza (iThonga)
- Best Actress in a TV Comedy: Desire Gardner (Magda Louw Season 2)
- Best Actor in a TV Comedy: Hannes van Wyk (Magda Louw Season 2)
- Best Achievement in Directing – TV Drama: Catch Me A Killer
In the public vote categories, Fezile Mkhize won the Flight Centre sponsored Best TV Presenter award which will give him an all-inclusive 7-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise onboard the new Celebrity Xcel in a veranda state cabin for 2. The prize includes return economy flights, pre and post accommodation and transfers, valued at R160 000. The Most Popular TV Soap or Telenovela award was taken by the newcomer telenovela that has the country’s tongues wagging, The Milton Empires’ Inimba S1.
Bobby Heaney, a distinguished television, film, and stage producer and director, was honored as one of the two recipients of the Lifetime Achiever Award. He is renowned for his dedication to nurturing new talent and has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of filmmakers. He personally mentors each student, guiding them through the intricate aspects of framing, conceptualization, and ethical production, fostering both their creative and professional growth.
The other recipient of the Lifetime Achiever Award was Magic Hlatshwayo, an industry legend who has made significant contributions to the South African film and television landscape. Known for many roles in the 1980s, including his unforgettable role as Madlanduna on Kwakhala Nyonini, his illustrious career continues to shine bright, and his dedication to the craft inspires the younger generation of actors.
Erik Holm, who was honoured with the Outstanding Person with Disability Contributor Award, is a distinguished figure in South African television. His impact on the industry is showcased by his nuanced portrayal of Rian Malherbe in the TV soap Binnelanders. Holm’s work embodies representation, depth, and authenticity in storytelling.
Additionally, Eastern Cape-born Sandulela Biyana was honoured with the Youth Achiever Award, and Ntokozo Mlaba received the Emerging Filmmaker Award, marking the next generation of South African film and television talent shaping the future of the industry.
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) would like to express its gratitude to all the jury members for ensuring the integrity of the judging process was maintained. The thorough judging process has bought us to this moment, where the nation proudly celebrates the best of the South African film and television industry.
Ms. Onke Dumeko, Acting CEO of the NFVF, captured the spirit of this milestone, acknowledging the collective effort behind it. She stated, “Today marks the culmination of many sleepless nights, unwavering dedication, and the sheer determination of every talent we honour. The 19th edition of the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) stands as a testament to the NFVF team’s effort to solidify the SAFTAs’ place as one of the premier events on the South African calendar. We also appreciate our broadcast partners, Canal+ and SABC, whose support has been invaluable in ensuring that all South Africans can see and engage with the SAFTAs. Likewise, we thank our sponsors, The Flight Centre SA, Icebolethu Group, the Gauteng Film Commission, First for Women, Magical Marble Family Festival and AVANTE for their contributions to the success of SAFTAs19’ this year.”
The SAFTAs19 committee is grateful to our sponsors, Icebolethu Group, Flight Centre SA, First For Women, Magical Marble, and the Gauteng Film Commission for sponsoring six categories this year: Best TV Presenter, Best Actress in a Telenovela, Best Actress in a TV Soap, Best Children’s Programme, and the In Memoriam category.
Black Swan Media, once again, put together a brilliant, well-thought-out SAFTAs production that intentionally highlighted the importance of the evolution of SA film and TV over the past 50 years.
The full list of winners can be found on all SAFTAs social media platforms, under the #SAFTAs19 hashtag, and on the NFVF website at www.nfvf.co.za.
Congratulations to all the winners!
SOURCED FROM SAFTAS WEBSITE.
