Soapies & TV shows

8 South African Actors who were earning a million rands and above in 2024 !!

8 Actors Who Earn Big in 2024

8 South African Soapies Actors Who Earned over a million rands per month

South African television is more vibrant than ever, with soap operas continuing to dominate the small screen.
Whether it’s the cutting-edge drama of House of Zwide, the gripping family dynamics in Skeem Saam, or the emotional rollercoasters in Generations: The Legacy, the country’s soapies have become a staple in many households. But behind the scenes, there are actors who are raking in substantial paychecks for their iconic roles.

Here, we take a closer look at the highest-paid South African celebrities of 2024 across popular soap operas like House of Zwide, Skeem Saam, eTV Scandal!, Isitha: The Enemy, and Generations: The Legacy.

1. Connie Ferguson – Generations: The Legacy (R5.5 million per month)

Connie Ferguson, an iconic name in South African entertainment, continues to break records in 2024. Her role as the ruthless and powerful Karabo Moroka in Generations:

The Legacy has cemented her as one of the highest-paid actresses in the country.

The Mzansi Magic soapie, which has been a household favorite for years, thrives on its gripping storylines and stellar performances—and Ferguson’s portrayal of Karabo has become legendary.

Her contract with the show alone brings in an impressive R5.5 million per month.

Beyond her soapie income, Ferguson’s earnings are boosted by her successful production company, Ferguson Films, and lucrative brand endorsements.

She remains a dominant figure in both the TV and business spheres, with her name synonymous with top-tier South African television.

2. Shona Ferguson (Posthumous) – The Queen & Kings of Joburg (R4.8 million per month)

Although Shona Ferguson passed away in 2021, his influence continues to generate massive earnings.

As the co-founder of Ferguson Films, his contributions to The Queen and Kings of Joburg remain a goldmine.

In 2024, Shona’s estate continues to benefit from his creative work on soap operas, films, and other productions.

His legacy, both on-screen and behind the scenes, continues to generate millions each month. His role as Jeremiah in The Queen and his involvement in several successful series ensure that his estate is still one of the highest earners in South African television.

3. Kgomotso Christopher – House of Zwide (R4.2 million per month)

 

Kgomotso Christopher’s character Shoki in House of Zwide is one of the most talked-about roles in 2024. Her commanding presence on screen has made her one of the most beloved actresses on the show.

Known for her depth of character and sharp delivery, Christopher’s performance has earned her a significant monthly salary of R4.2 million.

Her portrayal of a woman navigating both personal and professional battles has resonated deeply with audiences, further solidifying her status as one of the top earners in the local soapie industry.

Additionally, Christopher has a number of brand endorsements and acting opportunities outside of House of Zwide, making her one of the most financially successful stars in South Africa.

 

4. Moshidi Motshegwa – eTV Scandal! (R4 million per month)

Moshidi Motshegwa is a force to be reckoned with, and her 2024 earnings prove just that.

As Dintle in eTV Scandal!, Motshegwa continues to captivate viewers with her multifaceted portrayal of a strong yet vulnerable character. Her role in the long-running soapie has earned her a reported salary of R4 million per month.

In addition to her role in Scandal!, Motshegwa has starred in several hit films, further contributing to her wealth.

Her performance in Scandal! has garnered critical acclaim, and she is one of the few actresses whose career continues to ascend with every role. Her versatility in both drama and film solidifies her status as a top South African celebrity.

 

5. Maps Maponyane – Isitha: The Enemy (R3.8 million per month)

One of the breakout stars of 2024, Maps Maponyane’s role as Lwandle in Isitha: The Enemy has skyrocketed his earnings.

The show, which is a thrilling mix of action and suspense, has become a fan favorite, and Maponyane’s character has been at the center of its gripping storylines. His natural charisma and ability to bring depth to his role have earned him an impressive R3.8 million per month.

 

Aside from his role in Isitha: The Enemy, Maponyane is also a well-known TV host, entrepreneur, and social media influencer, which significantly boosts his total income. His multifaceted career has made him a rising star in South African entertainment.

6. Melusi Yeni – Skeem Saam (R3.5 million per month)

 

Known for his portrayal of Melusi in Skeem Saam, Melusi Yeni continues to earn substantial paychecks in 2024.

As one of the more established actors on the show, Yeni’s role as the family patriarch has earned him a steady R3.5 million per month.

His compelling performance as a father and a teacher has resonated with audiences, making him one of the most popular characters in the soapie.

Besides his work on Skeem Saam, Yeni is also involved in various stage productions and acting workshops, adding to his impressive portfolio and wealth.

7. Kgomotso Christopher – Skeem Saam (R3.2 million per month)

Kgomotso Christopher is one of the standout stars of Skeem Saam, where she plays Nontle.

Her powerful portrayal of a woman caught in complex family dynamics has earned her widespread admiration.

With an income of R3.2 million per month, she ranks among the top-earning South African soapie stars in 2024.

Beyond her role in Skeem Saam, Christopher has a robust career in theatre and other television projects, which further enhances her wealth and visibility.

8. Vusi Kunene – Generations: The Legacy (R3 million per month)

Vusi Kunene’s portrayal of Jack Mabaso in Generations:

The Legacy is as captivating as it is intimidating. Kunene, with his sharp acting skills, has firmly established himself as one of the highest-paid actors in South Africa, earning R3 million per month. His character’s complex nature and his ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats have made Jack Mabaso a fan favorite. Kunene is also one of the most respected actors in the industry, with decades of experience in film, television, and theatre.


Conclusion: South Africa’s Soapie Stars Are Making Bank!

In 2024, South African soapies continue to dominate the TV scene, with talented actors commanding impressive salaries.

From House of Zwide to Generations: The Legacy, Skeem Saam, Isitha: The Enemy, and eTV Scandal!, these stars prove that South African television offers substantial rewards for the best in the business.

The combination of talent, dedication, and the ability to resonate with audiences is what drives these actors to the top of the salary ladder.

With the ongoing success of these shows and the increasing demand for local content both domestically and internationally, these celebrities are not just stars—they’re also business moguls in the making.

8 most paid South African actors
8 most paid South African actors in 2024

As we move through 2024, expect their earnings to continue to rise as they cement their positions as South African entertainment royalty.

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