South Africa is basking in the global spotlight after earning a record-breaking four nominations at the 2025 International Emmy® Awards, the most ever for an African country in a single year.
From gripping thrillers and gritty crime dramas to documentaries that stir national pride and expose uncomfortable truths, the local TV industry has proved it can hold its own against the world’s best.
The four nominations are:
- Chasing the Sun 2
- Catch Me a Killer
- Koek
- School Ties
The nominations showcase the diversity of South African storytelling
“Chasing the Sun 2”, a triumphant look at the Springboks’ 2023 Rugby World Cup victory, scored a nod for “Best Sports Documentary”.
Showmax’s Afrikaans crime dramedy “Koek” is up for Best Dram Series”, following a suburban housewife’s descent into Cape Town’s criminal underworld.
“Catch Me a Killer” earned international recognition with British actress Charlotte Hope nominated for “Best Performance by an Actress” for her portrayal of forensic psychologist Micki Pistorius.
“School Ties”, which investigates sexual abuse scandals in elite boys’ schools, is shortlisted for “Best Documentary”.
And in children’s programming, “Play Room Live” received a nod in the “Kids: Factual and Entertainment” category.
This landmark achievement positions South Africa behind only the UK and Brazil
The nominated productions highlight the creative powerhouses driving local TV forward.
“Koek”, created by Christiaan Olwagen and directed by Johannes Pieter Nel, has already made waves at the Silwerskerm Festival with its sharp mix of dark humour and crime.
Meanwhile, “Catch Me a Killer”, based on Pistorius’ memoir, continues to travel globally after securing international distribution across Europe, Asia, and North America.
On the documentary front, “School Ties” has sparked fierce debate across the country for lifting the lid on abuse in elite schools, while “Chasing the Sun“ has given fans front-row seats to one of South Africa’s proudest sporting moments.
With its blend of hard-hitting themes and world-class storytelling, South Africa’s television industry has not only broken records but also proved it can compete, and shine on the world stage.
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