M-Net’s newest soap will air its 100th episode this week, with viewers responding positively to characters and storylines so far. The Wild arrived on television screens in April this year.
According to the director of M-Net General Entertainment, Theo Erasmus, M-Net is proud of this pioneering production. “The Wild is unlike anything that has been produced for South African television before. In terms of logistics, we have learnt many valuable lessons on how to turn such an outdoor venture, which is dependent on the elements of nature, into a well-oiled machine.
“The show will undoubtedly go from strength to strength and it’s encouraging to know that the target audience loves the characters and storylines, as proved during recent research done by the channel. Well done to the cast and crew, whose pioneering spirit, enthusiasm and dedication have quickly turned this into a world-class series.’
Looking back at the first 100 episodes, the cast commented as follows:
Shona Ferguson, who plays the role of the love-to-hate character, Itumeleng Tladi: “I’m honored to be part of such an unusual production like The Wild. It has really been a WILD ride. It amazes me how we manage to shoot a daily soap on location and still be standing after 100 episodes; and going even stronger. I’m looking forward to the next hundred and more.’
Putla Sehlapelo, better known to The Wild’s audience as Tiro Lebone: “Being on The Wild has been like test driving a car. We all know what it feels like to finally drive your dream car and that is how I feel about working on The Wild. It feels like I have just bought myself that car.’
Tyrone Keogh, the actor behind sexy game ranger, Jack van Reenen: “My absolute highlight on the show has been working with Ian Roberts (Karel). The script has been amazing and the directors are incredible. Wow, here’s to a hundred more years.’
Connie Ferguson, who plays matriarch Marang Lebone: “After being in the industry for as long as I have been, being on The Wild is like a breath of fresh air, it pushes me to the limits and allows me to enjoy life and acting all over again. I feel like a kid in a candy store, excited and looking forward to tasting all the sweets available to me.’
In the next month viewers can look forward to more gripping episodes. Itumeleng has some dodgy stuff up his sleeve, while Jack is in serious trouble.
