Renowned South African actress Rami Chuene has taken to social media to express her views regarding the unpaid wages scandal involving the cast and crew of BET Africa’s popular telenovela Queendom. Addressing an open letter sent to Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, Chuene emphasized the need for decisive action and industry reform.
“This has been going on for months. You should have stopped shooting a long time ago. No pay, no shoot.”
The actress also highlighted the importance of following the correct procedures before escalating the matter to the minister. She urged the crew to first approach the producer and then the broadcasting channel if no resolution is reached.
“If an agreement isn’t possible, the breach of contract clause in your agreement protects you as well. Don’t wait for them to admit they can’t pay.”
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Call for Collective Action and Accountability
Chuene criticized the lack of accountability within the entertainment sector, comparing the swift actions of service providers reclaiming assets to the slow response to contract violations by production houses.
“The urgency used to repossess your house or car should be the same energy applied to holding producers accountable.”
She also reflected on a recent tragedy on a different production set that went unaddressed.
“Wasn’t there a death on set recently? What happened? No outrage, no petitions, no letter to the minister—nothing. As long as we remain silent, production houses will continue exploiting us.”
Cast and Crew Demand Ministerial Intervention
The open letter to Minister McKenzie criticized his silence despite earlier promises to improve working conditions in the creative sector. The letter also questioned whether providing concert tickets to see international artist Chris Brown appropriately responded to the crisis.
“Is this your legacy, Minister of Happiness? When will we be paid?”
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Minister Gayton McKenzie Responds
Minister McKenzie, in his response, expressed disappointment at the approach taken by the cast and crew. He pointed out that no direct contact had been made with his office before the public letter.
“This doesn’t help anyone. The National School of the Arts approached us respectfully, and we assisted them. Who among you reached out to me first?”
McKenzie also defended his actions, suggesting that better communication could have led to a quicker resolution.
“Now I’m criticized for giving out concert tickets. Is this the best way to ask for help?”