Yizo Yizo

About Yizo Yizo

Yizo Yizo is a South African television drama series that first aired in 1999. The show explores the challenges faced by students, teachers, and administrators in a fictional high school in Johannesburg. The title "Yizo Yizo" derives from township slang meaning "all sorts of problems" or "the whole shebang." The drama delves into various social issues prevalent in South Africa, including crime, poverty, drugs, and violence, providing a raw and realistic portrayal of life in the country.

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

The series follows the lives of students and staff at Supatsela High School, shedding light on the harsh realities of urban life in South Africa. With a focus on the struggles of youth, the show addresses themes such as gang violence, drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and the impact of poverty on education. Through its gritty storytelling and authentic performances, Yizo Yizo offers a compelling and unfiltered look at the challenges faced by the characters.

Making / Production

Yizo Yizo was created by Angus Gibson and Teboho Mahlatsi. The series was groundbreaking for its time, boldly tackling sensitive issues and portraying them with honesty. The show was praised for its realistic depiction of South African life and received critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and strong performances.

Actors

• Meshack Mavuso as S'dumo (headmaster)
• Don Mlangeni Nawa as Mr. Motsamai (teacher)
• Jerry Mofokeng as Uncle Stan (drug dealer)
• Connie Mfuku as Puleng (student)

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Yizo Yizo was one of the first South African TV shows to confront the realities of the post-apartheid era.
• The series faced controversy for its graphic depictions of violence and drug use.
• Yizo Yizo was praised for its powerful performances and raw storytelling.

Awards

Yizo Yizo won numerous awards for its groundbreaking storytelling and performances, including several SAFTA Awards for Best TV Drama.

Quotes

• "Yizo Yizo challenges us to confront the harsh realities of our society." - Critic Review
• "The performances in Yizo Yizo are raw and uncompromising, bringing the characters to life with authenticity." - Viewer Feedback

Music

The music in Yizo Yizo plays a significant role in setting the tone for the series, with a blend of South African hip-hop, kwaito, and traditional music adding to the authenticity of the storytelling.

Soundtrack

• "Yizo Yizo Theme Song" by TKZee
• "Soweto" by Brenda Fassie
• "Kwaito" by Trompies