‘Just like Jonasi, it thought it was untouchable’: Joburg tears down The Polygamist billboard in cheeky crackdown

Johannesburg

Johannesburg – The City of Johannesburg has removed several illegal billboards, including one promoting Netflix’s hit series The Polygamist, as part of a bylaw enforcement operation targeting non-compliant advertising structures.

The billboard, which featured characters Joyce and Jonasi Gomora, was taken down alongside other advertising from sports betting companies during the city’s latest crackdown.

City officials used the moment to draw a tongue-in-cheek comparison between the show’s storyline and the enforcement action, saying the “empire crumbled” just like the character Jonasi’s downfall in the series.

“Much like Jonasi, this billboard thought it was completely untouchable behind a polished image.

“But just like the show’s plot twist, local authorities came through, the empire crumbled, and the sign was completely taken out of the picture! Safe to say, Jonasi isn’t the only one facing strict accountability in Joburg today.

“We are keeping the momentum going. No exceptions, no shortcuts. If it’s illegal, it comes down!,” the city’s X account tweeted.

The city has vowed to continue removing illegal signage, saying there will be “no exceptions” or “shortcuts” for non-compliant advertisers.

The Netflix series, based on a novel by Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi and produced by Thuli Zuma and Gugu Zuma-Ncube, has gained global popularity and appears in the Top 10 lists in over 75 countries.

Actor Sdumo Mtshali, who plays Jonasi Gomora, responded lightheartedly to the city’s remarks.

The character itself is fictional, according to the author, who says its popularity comes from its relatability rather than being based on any real individual, according to told The Herald.

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