South African broadcaster kykNET is expanding its local reality entertainment offering with Jagter. In this new hunting competition, 12 contestants compete for the title of South Africa's best ethical hunter.
Presented by Nico Panagio, the 10-episode series premieres on 9 December on kykNET (DStv channel 144). The programme is licensed from Die Jagter Productions and will test participants' hunting abilities, discipline, and knowledge of responsible hunting.
Created and executive produced by Louis Schoeman, Jagter aims to explore the principles of ethical hunting, with an emphasis on responsibility, respect for nature and the skills required in the field. According to Schoeman, the production seeks to highlight the values associated with responsible hunting rather than focusing solely on the competitive aspect.
The announcement comes amid ongoing controversy over hunting in South Africa. While regulated hunting has been seen as helping the country with wildlife management and developing the rural economy, opponents have raised concerns about its impact on wildlife and biodiversity.
The launch adds to kykNET's growing reality programming slate, following the channel's decision to move Moer 'n Boer from VIA to its schedule.
For independent producers, Jagter shows that kykNET is willing to license finished or producer-owned competition formats, not just commission in-house ideas. The producers frame the format around ethics, skills and values rather than trophies. Distributors working in niche outdoor and lifestyle content may find kykNET a buyer for similar titles, though the reaction to Jagter's launch will shape how far the channel goes.
