Series shot at Valley

An exciting new South African series is in the works and parts of it were filmed at Graaff-Reinet's very own Valley of Desolation.

Blood Psalms, created by award-winning producers Layla Swart and Jahmil XT Quebeka, is a 10-part series inspired by a Xhosa legend.

Actress Bokan Phelane plays the African princess Zazi, who must lead her people wars, politics and a world-ending prophecy. The series' cast includes over 50 South African actresses and actors.

"This is epic, authentic, original African storytelling like never before," said Yolisa Pahle, MultiChoice Group CEO for General

Entertainment, in a press release.

Filming, under strict lockdown rules, started in April in the Eastern Cape, with parts also shot in Gauteng and North West. Locals will be happy to hear that the beautiful Valley of Desolation, which forms part of the Camdeboo National Park outside Graaff-Reinet, will also feature in the series.

"The story of Blood Psalms not only entertains but also contributes to the preservation of African culture and languages as authentically told by Africans, to be enjoyed by the world," said Swart about the project.

Blood Psalms will be aired on Showmax in 2021. Producers are still keeping the release date a secret.