Primedia Studios in South Africa has acquired the format rights to produce localised versions of two entrepreneurial reality shows, Side Hustlers and Double the Money, in collaboration with ITV Studios. These programs are poised to air on South African television to promote economic growth and small business development.
Notably, South Africa will be the first country to adopt the Side Hustlers format for a local audience. The show, originally developed by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, showcases ambitious female entrepreneurs who strive to turn their passion projects into viable, investment-ready businesses. Throughout the competition, participants balance demanding day jobs while receiving mentorship and guidance from two successful female business leaders. They undergo a rigorous boot camp to prepare them for the challenges ahead.
Side Hustlers first premiered on the Roku Channel in the United States and has since been renewed for a second season due to its popularity.
In contrast, Double the Money, an original format from the UK, challenges pairs of aspiring entrepreneurs to rapidly double their starting funds through creative money-making ideas. They leave without earnings if they fail to achieve this goal during the show’s various challenges.
Denmark was the first country to adopt Double the Money, and now South Africa joins as the second international market thanks to Primedia Studios.
Jan du Plessis, president of Primedia Studios, expressed enthusiasm for adding these two innovative shows, stating, “We are incredibly excited to include these refreshing and entertaining formats in our lineup. Side Hustlers and Double the Money aligns perfectly with our goal to deliver exceptional video content to diverse African audiences while prioritising socio-economic transformation.”
Du Plessis added that the shows would inspire contestants to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and provide valuable insights for viewers looking to enhance their business ideas.
President of global partnerships at ITV Studios, Ruth Berry, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are thrilled to see these entrepreneurial formats making their way to South Africa in partnership with Primedia Studios, and we believe these fresh concepts will resonate with our audience.”
