The 2nd annual National Film & TV Awards South Africa was nothing short of spectacular.
Held on 9 November 2024 at Pretoria’s iconic State Theatre, the event was a brilliant showcase of the nation’s finest talent in film, television, and digital media.
NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS HOSTS
Dynamic personalities Jordan Kensington, Lesedi Phala, and Nicole Watson (of Real Housewives of Johannesburg fame) hosted the event.
The night dazzled attendees and viewers alike with its star-studded atmosphere and electrifying energy. The National Film & TV Awards South Africa is part of the National Film Academy.
This is a global body that has celebrated the best in entertainment for over 26 years, according to Biz Community..
NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS ON RECOGNISING TALENT
With a massive membership of 7.5 million worldwide, the Academy has become synonymous with recognising excellence in film and TV.
Since its expansion into South Africa in 2023, the awards have gained significant momentum. It has now become a prominent event on the country’s entertainment calendar.
The ceremony opened with a moving prayer, setting a tone of reverence and anticipation.
This year’s event saw 3.7 million votes from across South Africa.
This is a clear indication of how engaged the public is with their favourite stars and shows.
THE BIG WINNERS AT THE NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS
The night honoured the winners for their exceptional contributions to the industry.
Among the night’s biggest winners were Bonko Khoza, who took home the award for Best Actor 2024 for his role in Red Ink.
Nambitha Ben-Mazwi won Best Actress 2024 for her performances in Savage Beauty and Empini.
“I am truly humbled to be recognised by the public. This award is not just for me but for every actor who’s put in the hard work,” said Ben-Mazwi during her acceptance speech.
SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Other standout moments included Skeem Saam being crowned Best TV Drama Series 2024.
Heart of the Hunter dominated the film categories, winning Best Feature Film and Best Director for Mandla Dube.
“It’s a great honour to be part of a project that resonates so deeply with South African audiences,” Dube said, whose work on the film received critical acclaim.
The TV category also saw major wins as Skeem Saam’s S’dumo Mtshali won Best Actor in a TV Series.
OTHER MAJOR AWARDS AT THE NATIONAL FILM & TV AWARDS
Zikhona Sodlaka won Best Actress in a TV Series for Gqeberha – The Empire.
The awards also celebrated the talents of Tumi Morake, who took home the Best Comedian award.
Devi Sankaree Govender also won Best TV Presenter, Devi has been known to engage in superb interviews, making her a household name, according to Times Live.
Podcast and Chill by MacG claimed the Best Podcast award, earning special mention, it has been making waves nationwide, according to IOL.
Other major awards included Best Producer 2024, which went to Simoné Pretorius and Dries Scholtz for Som van twee.
TREVOR NOAH’S VIDEO MESSAGE
Celebrity Personality of the Year 2024 went to Trevor Noah.
Noah sent a video message from abroad: “This recognition means the world to me. Thank you for supporting me, South Africa!”
THE AFTER PARTY
The evening concluded with a VIP afterparty where nominees, winners, and industry leaders gathered to celebrate their achievements.
With the success of this year’s event, the National Film & TV Awards South Africa is poised to continue its legacy of elevating African talent on the global stage.
WHICH WINNER SURPRISED YOU THE MOST?