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IOL News
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Bonko Khoza opens up about life, fame and the pitfalls of the South African entertainment industry
South African actor Bonko Khoza opens up about fame, financial pitfalls and stresses in the entertainment industry. Image: Instagram During a visit to Lungelo KM's "Engineer Your Life" podcast, acclaimed actor Bonko Khoza delved deep into the intricacies of his life, his marriage and the challenges that come with fame. Khoza is currently the man of the moment on the small screen. He has earned high praise for his leading roles in the history-making Netflix movie, 'Heart of the Hunter' and the hit Showmax series, 'Red Ink' and "The Wife". Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ 'My heart is good' During the interview, Khoza reflected on his craft and exposed the harsh realities of the South African entertainment industry. Khoza began by discussing the awakening he has experienced regarding his personal philosophy. With a heartfelt message anchored in spirituality, he said: "My heart is good. I've been doing a lot of inner work with myself about the heart in relation to God. That's the heart's function in terms of cleaning out the tunnel between myself and God. "What I've come to learn, right now as I'm speaking to you, is that it's gratitude in terms of prayer, because it's validation of the present." Young hustler Rewinding to his early aspirations, Khoza shared a glimpse of his youthful pursuit of becoming a visual artist. He recalls starting out at an art school and juggling various odd jobs at Makro and Wimpy, as well as bartending. "I've been working for a long time, making my own pocket money or just cash to buy my own things." Addressing the sobering reality that many South African actors die broke, Khoza mentioned: 'The South African entertainment industry is no different in appearance or structure than anywhere in the world, but here we have real problems.' He pointed out that productions are often severely underfunded, leading to compensation that does not reflect the talent and dedication actors bring to their roles. 'I think there is a terrible stigma around producers underpaying people and I might put my head on the chopping block here, but the ecosystem is not that strong,' Khoza stated. 'Most of our legends die broke because, number one, it's not that glamorous, the fees aren't that great, and secondly, we don't have royalties.' Pay pitfalls He emphasised that actors remain financially vulnerable due to the nature of their contracts, which are often renewed annually, based on budget constraints. "At every job, you're just making enough for that job. It's crazy that the perception is that when someone sees you on TV, they think that you're making a crap ton of money, I don't know why human perception is that 'because I am public, I am rich'. "The people that are successful in the industry, I think have had great ways to manage that money or some kind of support. But if you are surviving purely on acting money, it's hard because you are not guaranteed your next job," he said. Reflecting on his exit from the popular show, "The Wife", Khoza shared that he does not allow public opinion to dictate his career moves. "I am never dictated by what other people think, not that I couldn't care less, I love an audience, I went to a theatre school, we engage with the audience, but my art is not measured by how someone else feels. Being human "I really try to do what I think is cool and what I think people will appreciate and just take it from there. "In this life now, the artist can quickly become the art. I am not the art, I am Bonko, I am the artist. Artists were never supposed to be famous. I was never supposed to be famous, I'm a piece of sh**. "I am not the cool guy, I've never been the cool guy. I'm introspective, I'm poetic, I'm deep, I cry, I am not the architype of a famous person and how that person suppose to engage." He acknowledged the precarious balance artists must maintain between their professional and personal lives, citing the stressors that arise when one neglects their humanity for the sake of their craft. "Being human is my job, everytime someone books me, I have to draw from the actual reality of it, and if I haven't lived the actual reality of it, there is nothing to draw from. "So when I was doing three season of 'The Wife' with barely no time to be human, it became dangerous to say at what point am I going to go back and be human again. And at the same time, the human was starting to go crazy." Watch the full podcast below.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Minnie Ntuli opens up about her feud with Londie London before 'The Real Housewives of Durban' reunion
Gagasi FM radio presenter Minnie Ntuli joined season five of the popular reality show "The Real Housewives of Durban" as a friend of the show. Image: Supplied Season five of 'The Real Housewives of Durban' has kept reality TV lovers glued to their screens as the drama unfolds. As with previous seasons, the new season trended week after week, but one cast member's name continuously trended. Love or hate her, Minnie Ntuli shook the tables on 'The Real Housewives of Durban.'. From addressing wig seller Precious about her treatment of her staff to addressing Londie London for returning to the group, Ntuli didn't hold back. What started as a minor squabble with Londie London quickly escalated into one of the season's most talked-about feuds. The fallout saw Ntuli losing her cool and being labelled a "mean girl" by some viewers online. Ntuli discussed the past season with Showmax before the eagerly awaited reunion. Addressing a key question from viewers about her difficult relationship with Londie London, she set the record straight, clarifying whether there was prior bad blood. 'There's no dramatic backstory or secret feud,' said Ntuli. Her arguments with Londie London began with criticism of outfits, which moved to Londie London's place in the group. Then things somehow moved to how people were raised and designer wear also in the mix, and how people allegedly make their money. 'What happened between us happened on the show, in real time, and, unfortunately, it spiralled. Emotions were high, egos were bruised, and communication broke down.' Ntuli revealed that she has since privately apologized to Londie London. 'What viewers saw wasn't the full picture, but my actions in those moments are on me,' she said. The radio star has received immense online criticism and social media backlash. She has even had to make her Instagram account private. 'People say hurtful things with zero context, and it stings. But I try to separate the noise from the truth. Ntuli handles the criticism by reading what she needs to grow, and releasing what doesn't serve her. 'I've had to remind myself daily that being flawsome means owning your mistakes, learning out loud, and giving yourself grace.' Participating in reality TV is challenging, and while Ntuli understands the nature of editing and its potential impact on viewers' perceptions, she gained valuable insights into both her strengths and weaknesses through the experience. IOL Entertainment
The South African
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Palace to prison: How did Nandipha meet Thabo Bester?
Nandipha Magudumana's appearance in court alongside her co-accused Thabo Bester has left many South Africans wondering what went wrong for the former doctor. Known for her glamorous appearance, successful businesses, perfect family life, and beautiful homes, many believe that the woman in the dock is a shadow of her former self. Nandipha and Bester are currently facing charges of orchestrating his 2022 prison escape, defrauding the public, and violating multiple bodies. They appeared at the Free State High Court for a pre-trial hearing, which has been postponed to 19 September. While Thabo Bester appeared as suave as his charming personality, Nandipha Magudumana looked gaunt and run-down in the courtroom. Bester – has has been previously convicted of murder, rape and fraud – wore a black stylish coat and a pair of trendy spectacles. Nandipha – who donned red lipstick and a hoodie – displayed hollow cheeks and expressionless eyes. Her appearance quickly became a trending topic on social media. Entertainment reporter Phil Mphela posted on X: 'A whole DOCTOR, wasted her life on this. Thabo Bester is gaining weight while she is withering away'. Businesswoman and PR exec Farah Fortune agreed, posting: 'Look at Nandipha. Next time you wanna do stupid s**t to please a man'. Fellow X user @BedworthTimes added: ' Look at the glow-up turned glow-down. Sis has aged fast. Prison will humble even the baddest baddie. Not for the faint-hearted, shame!' According to GroundUp – which broke the news of Thabo Bester's prison escape – Nandipha Maguumana began visiting the convict in prison in 2017. At the time, Bester was serving three concurrent life sentences, which he was handed down in 2011 and 2012. They were for two counts of rape, one count of murder, and armed robbery with aggravating circumstances. 'She visited him several times over the coming years. There was even one booking on Valentine's Day', claimed journalist Daniel Steyn in Showmax docuseries Tracking Thabo Bester. Thabo Bester and his lover Dr Nandipha reunited in the dock. Image: Twitter @LindA_MniSii/@pmcafrica However, in her sworn statement since her arrest, Nandipha claims she met Thabo Bester at Wits University in 2006, where he allegedly studied theology. The Department of Home Affairs has since revealed that Bester only has a grade 7 education. Nandipha also claims that she and Bester began dating in 2017, and he paid lobola for her in 2020. In 2022, weeks after Bester's escape, Nandipha approached the Free State High Court, claiming she was Bester's 'customary wife'. The doctor had demanded to collect his 'body' after the prison fire, where he had faked his death. Meanwhile, Nandipha married her lawful husband, Mkhuseli Magudumana – also a doctor – in 2013. The former couple shares two daughters together: Ayana and Aziza. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Ofentse Tsipa breaks parenting myths with real talk
Ofentse Tsipa is a shining example that dreams do come true. Her name, meaning 'Christ has conquered,' honours her mother's resilience after several miscarriages before her birth. Today, Ofentse is a transformational coach based in Kenya. She juggles motherhood, marriage, and studies at United States International University-Africa, while helping others manifest love and financial success. With a Dutch husband, two children, and a passion for self-discovery, Ofentse shares her journey openly on her popular podcast and social media. She keeps it real, discussing everything from life hacks to personal struggles. Her story resonates deeply, especially with South Africans familiar with the Tsipa name, according to Showmax Stories. Her brother Lemogang Tsipa is a beloved South African actor who famously portrayed Shaka Zulu on Mzansi Magic's hit show Shaka iLembe. Now, Ofentse steps into the spotlight on Showmax's newest reality series, which follows affluent Nairobi mothers navigating parenting, and high-society drama. Known for her monthly 'Mommies and Mimosas' events, she brings sparkle and connection to the show's cast of moms. On motherhood, Ofentse says her coaching has transformed her approach. 'I'm all about manifesting magic! I've learned to feel my feelings and be present. This helps me walk alongside my kids as equals, real human beings with their thoughts and feelings. Forget the old-school 'children should be seen and not heard' mindset! My kids are both seen and heard.' Ofentse Tsipa adds that her coaching makes her more intentional and analytical about her children's emotions and creativity. Being part of a multicultural family enriches her parenting style. 'We are 100% multicultural! My husband is Dutch with French influence, I'm South African—Tswana with Zulu roots—and we live in Kenya. I like to call myself a global mama raising global citizens. We celebrate Christmas Dutch style but also honour Zulu traditions.' Ofentse employs two nannies and offers advice for other mothers. 'Trust your gut during interviews—chemistry is everything. Hire for character, not skills. Skills can be taught. I've trained my nannies in the Montessori method, focusing on the child's interests and individuality. To keep them happy, we have weekly check-ins. It's all about teamwork and respect. I give them autonomy and don't micromanage.' Asked which mom from the show she'd swap lives with for a day, Ofentse Tsipa says, 'Jackie. She's solo, balancing work and parenting. This is similar to my life, but on a smaller scale. I'd love to experience navigating dating again and rebuilding co-parenting relationships.' If her kids Google her one day, Ofentse hopes they find inspiration and pride. 'I want them to see a legacy of helping people become their best selves, authenticity, and loving life while growing. I want them to feel contentment and say, 'That's my mom.'' Ofentse Tsipa also opened up about postpartum struggles: 'No one prepares you for it. It's like stepping into motherhood and realising, 'Welcome to hell.' We talk about it on the show because it's raw and real. We need to talk about it more.' Her biggest joy? 'Unconditional love—it's unmatched. I love my kids more every day.' And a parenting myth she's debunked? 'You can't control kids. I used to judge moms when their kids threw tantrums—until it happened to me! It's about allowing them to feel and express themselves.' People often mistake her for a snob, but Ofentse Tsipa laughs it off: 'Then they meet me and say, 'Oh my goodness, you're so nice!'' Her favourite reality show? ' The Mommy Club franchise—the SA original and Sugar & Spice editions.' Ofentse Tsipa's story is one of resilience, authenticity, and joy—a global mama with South African roots making waves across Africa. Her journey inspires mums and dreamers alike. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
6 days ago
- Business
- The South African
DStv bleeds 6 300 subscribers PER DAY over the last 12 months
MultiChoice has reported a major slump in its subscriber base, losing 2.3 million active DStv customers over the past year – the second consecutive year of steep decline. The drop includes 614 000 subscribers in South Africa and a further 1.73 million in the Rest of Africa, reflecting a continued deterioration in the pay-TV giant's core markets. The figures were disclosed in the group's financial results for the year ending 31 March 2025, released last week. The numbers paint a troubling picture: group revenue dropped 9% to R50.8 billion, driven largely by an 11% decline in subscription income, while trading profit fell to R4 billion. The number of 90-day active subscribers – defined as those with an active subscription within 90 days prior to the reporting date – dropped from 20.93 million in 2024 to 18.59 million in 2025. South Africa: from 8.55 million to 7.94 million from 8.55 million to 7.94 million Rest of Africa: from 12.38 million to 10.66 million That's a drop of around 6 300 per day . This trend follows last year's decline and has impacted all DStv segments – premium, mid-market, and mass-market: South Africa Premium: -10% Mid-market: -6% Mass-market: -7% Rest of Africa: Premium: -13% Mid-market: -12% Mass-market: -14% MultiChoice said the broad-based contraction reflects continued economic hardship, exacerbated by load shedding, high unemployment, and a cost-of-living crisis that has forced many households to cut back on non-essential spending like pay-TV. 'Households are struggling to make ends meet, and many have no choice but to give up their DStv subscription,' the group stated. In South Africa, DStv is also facing structural headwinds. Consumers are increasingly turning to cheaper streaming platforms, free video content, and pirated services, all of which offer greater flexibility and lower costs. 'The negative trend was evident across all three market segments, suggesting that economic hardship and affordability remain a challenge across the board,' the report noted. Even Showmax, the group's streaming arm, was not immune to financial pressures, with revenue and trading profit also declining during the period. With very few indicators of a turnaround, MultiChoice is now under pressure to reinvent itself in a changing media landscape. The company says it is focusing on improving customer experience, diversifying revenue through new business lines like fintech and insurance, and forming strategic partnerships to support growth. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
