Model Millions axed

2008-11-11 08:01

Thinus Ferreira

Cape Town - The troubled SABC3 reality series Model Millions, of which only two episodes were broadcast - both late - and which has not been aired or produced for weeks, received the final blow on Monday.

The money for the find-a-model reality series, which was filmed in Cape Town, had dried up.

Behind the scenes the programme had accumulated a mountain of debt and was plagued by massive production problems and bad weather.

SABC3 was still not prepared to take any responsibility for the series, the R1m prize money for a lucky viewer, or the collapse of the production, although the channel had broadcast it, and also marketed it with great fanfare before the start of the series.

Extensive damage

The beleaguered channel admitted that it had suffered extensive damage due to the Model Millions chaos and blamed the producers for the debacle.

"It was the producers' responsibility to secure sufficient funding for the production of a series of this magnitude," said Gesh Conco, SABC3's head of publicity.

"After continuous discussions with the producers, the channel has taken the decision to end the programme and focus on the stability of the channel schedule - and we admit that the programme's financial dilemma is a gigantic obstacle in this effort."

Die Burger was told that SABC3 had decided on Thursday to axe Model Millions, but the paper doesn't know yet which programme will replace the series in the Wednesday evening slot.

The executive producer of the series, Wayne Kyle, is said to be very sad. The stress has had a detrimental effect on his health and he is apparently severely depressed.

'Only I am to blame'

Kyle has made an agreement with SABC3 that he would issue a short media announcement and say that only he is to blame.

"I am the one who let down the production, because I failed to ensure the financial security of the series.

"Thanks to the participants, the production team and the suppliers who had been so patient while we tried to salvage the series.''

The model Kerry McGregor, who presented the series along with her sister Tracey, said their names in the industry have also been damaged.

Viewers who voted in the SMS competition during the two episodes that were broadcast, may claim back their R2 per SMS if they send an e-mail to the producers at [e-mail] with their cellphone numbers.

The details will be checked by the auditors and a refund will be arranged.

- Die Burger