Showmax has unveiled plans to adapt NBCUniversal’s smash-hit comedy, “Superstore”, into isiZulu of South African fans.
The announcement comes as the original series celebrates its tenth anniversary.
“Superstore” is the second comedy format adaptation for the platform, following their successful acquisition of “The Office” from BBC.
The original series by Justin Spitzer gained massive success during its six-season run, amassing over six million viewers per episode and winning multiple awards as one of television’s greatest workplace comedies.
The upcoming South African version will be produced by Barkers Media, who are behind popular hits like “Shebeen Queens” and “How to Manifest a Man”, together with Universal International Studios.
Production is set to start later this year, promising to inject a distinctly South African flair into the universally beloved narrative.
“The format is globally recognised and adored by audiences all over the world, so we’re looking forward to adding that distinctive South African flavour to it,” said Mpho Lengane, executive producer at Barkers Media.
Hannah Mabruk, vice president of Format Sales for NBCUniversal Formats, added that she cannot wait to see the show take on a “whole new life in South Africa”.
“It’s a format that resonates with audiences around the world because of its undeniable humour, heart, and universal themes of community and friendship flourishing in the workplace.
“Together with our long-time partners at Showmax and the team at Barkers Media, we look forward to bringing a uniquely South African spin to these lovable characters in a fresh and exciting new way,” said Mabruk.
The local adaptation promises to resonate with audiences, fusing the original’s timeless themes of community and workplace camaraderie with local humour and cultural nuances.
Nicola van Niekerk, executive head of programming at MultiChoice, commented: “I laughed my way through every episode of ‘Superstore’ and can’t wait to see how the funny and loveable characters are reimagined in our complex country.”
Below are three other great workplace series to binge-watch:
“2 Broke Girls”
This series follows the eventful lives of two young women in their mid 20s, Max (Kat Dennings) and Caroline (Beth Behrs) who become unlikely friends.
Caroline was raised as the daughter of a billionaire, while Max grew up in extreme poverty, resulting in differing perspectives on life, although together they work in a local diner, they attempt to raise funds to start a cupcake business.
“Kim's Convenience”
Mr and Mrs Kim are Korean Canadian convenience store owners who have worked hard to give their now-twenty-something children, Janet and Jung, a better life in Canada.
The comedy finds laughter in the trials of running the shop while raising kids in Moss Park, Toronto.
“The Bold Type”
Jane, Kat and Sutton are three friends who work for a prestigious women's magazine. They encounter different challenges in their careers alongside their romantic pursuits.