Queendom actors face a black Christmas as payment delays continue

The cast and crew of the BET Africa telenovela Queendom are facing a bleak festive season after the show’s producers failed to fulfill their promise of paying them on December 23. This announcement has left the team disheartened, with no clarity on when their overdue payments will be made.

A Disheartening Statement

Instead of receiving their long-awaited payments, the Queendom actors were met with another message of delay, shared by an anonymous cast member.

The producers’ statement reads:

“Dear team Queendom, it is with the heaviest heart that we have to inform you all that the promised payment today cannot be honoured. Nor can we provide clarity or confirmation on an updated payment date. Despite our best efforts and extensive negotiation with all stakeholders, the obligations required to ensure payment today could not be met.”

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The message acknowledged the gravity of the situation, particularly on the eve of Christmas. The producers expressed regret, stating that no apology could soften the impact on the hardworking team.

“Your work on this production has been incredible. It makes this news so much worse because none are more deserving of payment than this team. Once we have the clarity we require to commit to an updated payment date, we will do so. We hoped this would not be the message we are forced to deliver today.”

Months Without Pay

The delayed payments are the latest blow to the Queendom cast and crew, who claim they have not received salaries since October. This ongoing issue has not only affected their morale but also their financial stability, especially during the festive season.

Criticism of the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture

The cast’s grievances also extend to the government. In an open letter, they accused the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, led by Minister Gayton McKenzie, of ignoring their plight.

McKenzie, however, hit back, criticizing the way the cast sought assistance. He claimed they had not approached him directly but chose to air their grievances publicly instead.

“This approach helps no one. The National School of the Arts wrote to us, respectfully, and we helped them. Who among you approached me first? Now I’m catching smoke because I gave people concert tickets. Is this really how to ask for help?” McKenzie said.

The Producers’ Silence

The producers of Queendom have remained unavailable for comment, further frustrating the cast and crew. Their silence adds to the uncertainty surrounding the situation, leaving the team without answers or a timeline for when their financial concerns will be addressed.

Impact on Cast and Crew

The situation has left many cast members grappling with financial strain during what should be a joyous season. For many, this delay means they cannot celebrate Christmas with their families as planned or cover basic expenses.

Hope Amidst Uncertainty

While the situation remains unresolved, the cast and crew are hoping for swift action from the producers and relevant stakeholders. With their hard work on Queendom widely recognized, they await a resolution that acknowledges their dedication and provides the compensation they are owed.

The story of Queendom serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry and the importance of ensuring fair treatment and timely payment for all workers