POPULAR TV series MTV Shuga Down South will be returning to the small screens on 25 June.
The 10-episode season will premiere on MTV (DStv channel 130), with Ayanda Makayi and Dee Rasedile reprising their roles alongside an all-new cast.
The new cast members were found through public auditions, which were held in 2022.
The show announced the auditions in November.
The new cast members are Zazi Kunene, Ziya Xulu, Tyson Mathonsi, Ayakha Ntunja, Ayanda Nzimande, Chidera Nwoha, Lobisa Tsatsi, Naret Loots, Palesa Mothopi, as well as Alex Aduka.
Tshireletso Yvonne Diogo, country director of MTV Staying Alive Foundation, said they are excited to introduce the new cast.
"Their talent and passion for storytelling brings fresh energy to the multi-award-winning TV series that addresses important social issues experienced by young Africans as they navigate their way through adolescence and young adulthood. We can't wait for viewers to see them in action," she said.
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The show teaches about HIV prevention, sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis and issues involving the LGBTQI+ community.
Monde Twala, senior vice president and general manager at Paramount Africa & Lead BET International, said they are working with female directors.
"We're thrilled to bring back MTV Shuga Down South for another season. The series has been a powerful voice for young people on the African continent and has tackled some of our society's most pressing issues.
"This series is a vital part of Paramount Africa's approach to storytelling as it keeps us true to our mission of telling authentic African stories as well as providing platforms for growth, inclusivity, identity ownership and mirror reflective authenticity.
"In this light, we're delighted to be working with an all-black-female team of directors from the leading South African production company Burnt Onion, and to have given 16 young people an opportunity to participate in the production of the series through our internship programme," Monde said.
Seasoned actors Nimrod Nkosi, Seiphemo Motswiri, Thuli Thabethe, Josias Moleele, Lerato Mvelase and Leera Mthethwa also join the series as new cast members for the third season.
