A new South African wedding show that premiered on Sunday [September 6] on popular channel Moja Love is caught up in controversy as a young writer is alleging the channel stole the concept from her. She is now considering taking legal action against the channel.
‘You Promised To Marry Me’ is Moja Love’s latest offering. Hosted by rapper turned on-air personality Jub Jub Molemo Maarohanye, it helps disgruntled individuals confront their romantic partners over why they have not fulfilled their promise to walk down the aisle. Host Jub Jub brings the bride, dressed in her wedding finery, to her hesitant groom to confront him and the drama ensues.
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However, upcoming TV writer Masilive Tati from Durban alleges she was the original creator of the concept, and the channel stole it from her after she submitted a proposal to them twice in June.
“Early in June I saw an advert that Moja Love needs proposals for new TV shows. I ran the idea past my younger sister and I thought it was a good idea since there was nothing like that on television,” she told The Star.
“The show was to provide a platform for women to ask the question undishada nini (when are you marrying me) and to find out if they’ve been living on empty promises in those long-term relationships.”
“From the proposals submitted thus far the channel has not selected any. As the amount of proposals is overwhelming and we are in the process of setting up a dedicated committee to manage the workflow,” he told The Star.
“The channel has been working on the show format for You Promised to Marry Me since last year as a spin off of Uyajola 9/9.”
Tati is adamant that they have stolen her idea, but admits it was not protected by copyright.
“I didn’t think it would have been necessary at that point and I don’t have any knowledge on how these things work. I am definitely seeking legal advice on the matter. I am hoping that Moja Love can credit me or compensate me.”
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