Simunye's powerhouse new drama hit Gaz'Lam has been hammered by some of the Sunday gossips. But the series has nonetheless taken five major nominations in this year's Duku Dukus.
The influence of top soaps e.tv's Backstage and SABC1's Generations will also be tested as the popular shows come up against each other twice.
The weakest category is surely that of best male presenter with Hlomla Dandala (All You Need Is Love), Stone Seate (Castle Loud) and Justice Ramohlola (Soul Sounds) inspiring little excitement as none is particularly sizzling.
The toughest competition will be in the best female actor (drama) category as Gaz'Lam stars Mbali Ntuli and Bubu Mazibuko come up against Joyce Skefu of Muvhango.
Selimathunzi announced nominees in 10 categories this week, and said an additional two categories would be kept a secret, as is the venue at this stage. The Duku Dukus are in their fourth year and Joe Correira, Selimathunzi executive producer, says fans "should expect fireworks".
... and the nominees are: (our predicted winners in bold)
- Best television programme:Gaz'Lam, Popstars
, Backstage
- Best male actor (drama): Siyabonga Shiba (Gazlam); Menzi Ngubane (Gaz'lam)
and Jerry Phele (Emzini Wezinsizwa)
- Best female actor (drama): Mbali Ntuli (Gaz'Lam); Bubu Mazibuko (Gaz'Lam)
,
Joyce Skefu (Muvhango)
- Best male actor (soap): Rapulana Seiphemo (Generations); Clint Brink (Generations), Loyiso Mangena (Backstage)
- Best female actor (soap): Xolile Tshabalala (Generations), Sophie Ndaba (Generations)
, Kim Engelbrecht (Isidingo)
- Best male presenter: Hlomla Dandala (All You Need Is Love), Stoan Seate (Castle Loud), Justice
Ramohlola (Soul Sounds)
- Best female programme presenter: Unathi Nkayi (Castle Loud); Kim Engelbrecht (Take 5), Sheila Maseko (Mamepe)
- Best TV sport personality: Xolelwa Majeke (Woza Weekend)
, Carol Manana (Laduma on 1), Tshepo Mabona (e-Shibobo)
- Best television newcomer: Tafadzwa Kwya (Generations); Mpho Sono (SABC3 continuity), Loyiso Mangena (Backstage)
- Most controversial personality: Phat Joe, Lundi Tyamara
and Bonnie Mbuli