MC Kats Slams TV Stations for TikTok-Driven Presenter Recruitment

Edwin Katamba, widely known as MC Kats, has expressed his dismay over the current recruitment practices in Ugandan television. The seasoned broadcaster believes that the industry has veered off course, prioritizing online popularity over professional broadcasting skills and experience.

MC Kats, who has graced screens at prominent stations like WBS TV, NTV Uganda, and NBS TV, shared his concerns during a recent podcast appearance. He stated that his decision to step back from national television stemmed from observing the shift in talent acquisition.

“Before quitting TV, I looked at different TV stations and their respective presenters, apart from the seniors like Dagy Nyce, Douglas Lwanga, and Calvin Da Entertainer, and I was like, ‘I can’t be on TV with a TikToker who blasphemes, with a girl who just showed her nudes and they’re working on national TV. I can’t be in this box anymore!’” MC Kats revealed.

He elaborated that the traditional avenues for securing a television role, such as rigorous screen tests, have been largely supplanted by social media metrics. According to MC Kats, a presenter’s ability to generate buzz and followers on platforms like TikTok now holds more sway than formal training or on-air experience.

“Social media numbers hold the power now. You think people still go for screen tests as I went to WBS TV? It’s about how many people you have on TikTok, how much noise you make on TikTok, and you’re given a TV show. You learn from the job,” he explained, highlighting the perceived decline in industry standards.

His comments highlight a broader conversation about the increasing influence of social media personalities on mainstream media and the evolving criteria for television talent. This shift raises questions about the future of broadcasting quality and professional development within the industry.

Read more at: https://www.howwe.ug/news/entertainment/43416/mc-kats-criticizes-tv-stations-over-tiktok-based-recruitment