A spin-off of The River, the highly anticipated Mzansi Magic show Co-Breezy is making headlines for all the wrong reasons, as sources have accused the production of neglecting its extras. The show, currently being filmed in the notorious neighbourhood of Yeoville, Johannesburg, has sparked concerns over long working hours, lack of security, and allegations that extras are not being provided with food on set.
Among the cast is Presley Cheneyagae, who stars in the new series, but it’s the treatment of the extras that has raised eyebrows. Sources close to the production have come forward to ZiMoja, describing a working environment where extras are expected to work tirelessly from as early as 6 a.m. in the morning but are reportedly not given adequate care and food.
According to an insider, extras are required to be on set as early as 6 a.m. but struggle to get even the basics, like breakfast. “For them to even get breakfast is something else. They arrive before some of the cast, and even though they don’t complain, because they need the work, most days they spend the entire day on set without being fed,” the source said.
The lack of food has been one of the major complaints, with extras reportedly going without meals throughout long filming days. In the entertainment industry, providing meals to extras is standard practice, especially given the demanding hours, yet sources claim this isn’t being followed on the Co-Breezy set.
Adding to the growing list of grievances, there are serious concerns about the safety of the crew and staff on set. Yeoville, the filming location, is known for its high crime rates, including drug-related issues, and sources allege that the production is operating without any security measures in place. “There’s no security whatsoever. The staff’s lives are at risk,” said another insider. “Someone from the community who knew about the lack of security came to warn us. They said we were in danger, and it’s clear that the equipment and our safety are at risk too.”
Despite these concerns being raised by staff members, there has been no official action to address the security lapses. “They’ve raised the issue, but no one is doing anything about it,” the source continued. “It’s very discouraging, and now the staff just doesn’t know what to do anymore. This is a major production for Mzansi Magic, and the conditions on set are just not right.”
Mzansi Magic has swiftly denied the allegations, with spokesperson Portia Hlongwane responding to the claims. “We can confirm that there has never been an instance where extras have not been fed,” Hlongwane said, adding that there was “always enough food on set,” and that any leftover food was given to local community members to avoid waste.
Despite the network’s denial, the reports from staff members paint a starkly different picture, leading many to question the treatment of workers on the production. As Co-Breezy continues to film, it remains to be seen how these allegations will affect the show’s reputation and whether any changes will be made to improve conditions on set.
