We’ve been talking all month about how the global Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted or caused the indefinite postponement of many of our favorite forms of media. Musicians can no longer organize concerts, Red carpet events are basically a thing of the past and film crews can no longer meet film deadlines. But this period is also producing its fair share of innovative ideas and truly transcendental media content, like the new MTV x Staying Alive Foundation initiative to produce a limited series around their critically acclaimed television series, MTV Shuga.

MTV Shuga has had seasons set in South Africa, East Africa and West Africa, unearthing world class talent like Lupita N’yongo, Nick Mutuma and Timini Egbuson (who recently won an AMVCA for his work on ‘Elevator Baby’). However in the franchise, with the exception of a handful of characters, there really haven’t been any major cross overs between the regional shows, and now that is finally about to change. Fan favourites from Timini Egbuson, Jemima Osunde, Nick Mutuma and Lerato Walaza are all lending their acting talent with support from  a Pan-African cast from Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire to create a limited series called ‘Alone Together’, which is set in the MTV Shuga universe but shifts its focus towards adding to the conversation around the Coronavirus.

MTV Shuga’s ‘Alone Together’ will have 60 parts in total (mad right?) and will be shot remotely by the stars themselves, with direction and scripting from Tunde Aladese. The first few episodes go up on the 20th of April. The entire thing will be told via a series of video calls, capitalize heavily on how the lock down is changing social interactions.

MTV Shuga Alone Together will educate viewers across the world about how practicing hygienic habits, social distancing and self-isolation are critical to fighting the spread of the coronavirus. From tackling COVID-19 myths and stifling the spread of fake news, to keeping a close eye on mental health while staying home, the pan-African production, shot entirely by the actors during lockdown, will be a window into the real-life effects of the pandemic, including the lesser discussed rise in drug addiction, domestic violence and depression. To check out the first few episodes, check out their dedicated website: www.mtvshuga.com/alonetogether

Hashtags: #MTVShugaAloneTogether #AloneTogether

The show will be funded independently, so help with your coins if you’re so inclined by visiting: https://mtvstayingalive.charitycheckout.co.uk/cf/covid19appeal