On Sunday night, in 90-minute landmark episode, the longest running current affairs show, "Carte Blanche," will celebrate its 30th year of daring storytelling.
The show will look back on many of the highlights and memorable moments that created appointment viewing over three decades of cutting-edge television journalism.
Viewers will relive "Carte Blanche"’s coverage of epic moments in history as it exposed wrongdoing of all kinds, interviewed global icons, kept viewers informed about the latest technology, and showcased remarkable achievements of South Africans from all walks of life. Among other highlights, the special Carte Blanche 30th Birthday edition will feature the following not-to-be-missed inserts:
Three Decades of History
In August 1988, the first episode of Carte Blanche was broadcast. South Africa was a very different country at the time. PW Botha was state president, Nelson Mandela was behind bars, townships were aflame, and a repressive state of emergency was being fiercely opposed. Since then, unimaginable changes have taken place in our history and Carte Blanche has been there to cover many of these human triumphs and tragedies.
Investigations and Scams
Investigative reportage has been the cornerstone of Carte Blanche for 30 years, busting corruption, cruelty and trickery, from car dealers to shady politicians, animal abusers to scamsters of every type. It still inspires countless people to write to us every day. We recall the highlights in our investigative journey and reflect on the sometimes entertaining and always enlightening responses of those in the crosshairs.
The Bizarre, the Adventurous and the Extraordinary
While it may be known for its investigative prowess, Carte Blanche has over the years explored bizarre and extraordinary lifestyles and adventures. From adult “babies” in nappies, to the first South African Everest expedition – we’ve captured these moments and met courageous men and women who have pushed the boundaries of modern-day adventure.
Sport, Celebrities and Golden Moments
Carte Blanche’s very presence made – and recorded – magic. Devi’s iconic confrontation of Eskom’s Matshela Koko. Derek’s meeting with Mark Shuttleworth before he ventured into space. Macfarlane’s scowl as he descended into Johannesburg’s sewers with zama zama miners looking for treasure, and the wonder on Claire’s face as she tested some of the first virtual reality phone devices. Moments like these have made you stay with us and have propelled us into the future.
Catch Carte Blanche on Sunday at 7pm on M-net (DStv channel 101).