Netflix Sets Second Original from South Africa

Blood & Water has been revealed as Netflix’s second original series from South Africa.

Blood & Water will be a teen-led drama that follows a local teen uncovering her family’s secret past and navigating the complicated world of a South African high school. Nosipho Dumisa, who made her mark globally with Nommer 37, is directing.

The series is due to start production in 2019 and is expected to launch globally in 190 countries in 2020.

“Gambit Films and I are so excited to be working with Netflix on this explosive young adult drama, with not only a cool look at strong female leads but also a powerful mystery at its core,” Dumisa said. “As a director who loves genre, this series combines the best of so many and isn’t shy to delve into the real issues of youth culture, whilst jam-packing it with twists that will keep viewers guessing.”

“We are delighted to be investing further in African content and to partner with Nosipho and the team at Gambit Films to bring our second original series from South Africa to Netflix,” said Kelly Luegenbiehl, VP of international originals for Europe, Turkey and Africa at Netflix. “Great stories are universal, so we expect this gripping teen drama, with its view on contemporary high school life, to appeal to young adults from South Africa, as well as the rest of the world. Following on the heels of Queen Sono, Blood & Water is the next step in our further investment in original African content and we’re excited to explore more projects across the region.”