Somizi Buyani Mhlongo is a South African television presenter, radio personality, choreographer, actor and singer. In 1992, he appeared on the musical and political film, Sarafina! which gained his prominence. Mhlongo became lead choreographer for numerous shows and events, including the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Early Life
Somizi Buyani Mhlongo was born on December 23, 1972, in Soweto, a borough of Johannesburg, to a veteran actress, Mary Twala, and the late actor and comedian, Ndaba Mhlongo. With the experience of both his parents, he became exposed to the entertainment industry at a very young age.
Career
Film and Television
Mhlongo’s acting career began when he was 13, appearing on the film Scavengers in 1987 . In 1992, he then joined the musical and political film, Sarafina! in which he played his own name but given a nickname Whacko. He also appeared in films including Kein Himmel über Afrika (1993) and Cry, the Beloved Country (1995).
Mhlongo was featured on the television series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures in 1996. Mhlongo’s biggest judging duty was when he was appointed as the new judge for the eleventh season of Idols South Africa.
He was also a lead judge on the former SABC 1 competition show Dance Your Butt Off alongside actress and dancer Khabonina Qubeka. In 2016, Mhlongo premiered his reality show Living the Dream with Somizi which aired on Mzansi Magic. Other TV credits include City Ses’la, Ayeye and 10 Over 10.
Mhlongo hosted various award shows notably being the South African Music Awards where he co-hosted for 3 consecutive years (2016, 2017 and 2018). On April 26, 2018, Mhlongo was the featured roastee in Comedy Central’s annual roast special.
Choreography
Mhlongo’s debut choreography work was on the musical film Sarafina!. He choreographed many prominent events including the opening and closing ceremonies for the huge international football association FIFA for the 2010 hosting in his home country South Africa. Mhlongo choreographed various award shows and events including Miss South Africa, Metro FM Music Awards, South African Music Awards and the Channel O Music Video Awards.
In 2017, Mhlongo released a dance workout DVD Grind! With Somizi which was available at Verimark. The workout choreography had many elements of South African dance moves. Mhlongo also did several YouTube workout videos under the name, Kwaitone Dance Fitness with Somizi.
Radio
Since April 3, 2017, Mhlongo was one of the co-hosts of Metro FM breakfast show The Fresh Breakfast Show alongside the lead host DJ Fresh and soccer presenter Mpho Letsholonyane. On March 30, 2019, it was announced that he will be replaced by Relebogile Mabotja as the station reshuffled. Mhlongo was then moved to co-host #TheBridge – the show after the set and airing of The Fresh Breakfast Show timeslot.
Other ventures
Endorsements
In 2017, Mhlongo was named the ambassador for the satellite service DStv as for his notability on Idols South Africa which airs on two of their channels – M-Net and Mzansi Magic. He then endorsed with the Department of Water and Sanitation later that year. He also endorsed with McDonald’s South Africa in being the face of McCafé Coach Sessions.
Writing
On June 29, 2017, Mhlongo released his autobiographical book named Dominoes, Unbreakable Spirit. He co-wrote the book alongside with journalist and author Lesley Mofokeng. The book shares his life in the showbiz, childhood, entertainment biz, parents roles, sexuality and friendship.
Music
Mhlongo incorporated in Kwaito and Gospel for his songs releases on the 2000s decade which critically and commercially failed. As for 2017, he released his house-focused and gqom-influenced revival song called Ngibonile featuring DJ and producer Heavy K.
Personal life
Mhlongo met actress Palesa Madisakwane while he was in a relationship with an anonymous man. They then started dating leading Mhlongo to come out as bisexual. Before Madisakwane noticed they were expecting their first child named Bahumi, the couple split as Mhlongo realised he was in effect gay and not bisexual.
Mhlongo is currently in a relationship with Mohale Motaung who he engaged while on their vacation in Paris, France.
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