Mzansi Magic has revealed the dynamic Smash Afrika as the new host for the much-anticipated return of Big Brother Mzansi Season 5. Known for his infectious energy and undeniable charisma, Smash is ready to bring a fresh and thrilling edge to the beloved reality series. Smash Afrika, born Afrika Mdutyulwa, has long been a shining star in South African media. Hailing from Bloemfontein, he carved his place in the entertainment world through years of stellar work in radio and television. From electrifying the airwaves on YFM and 5FM to captivating audiences as the host of Massive Music on Mzansi Magic and Channel O, Smash has become a household name. Whether as an MC at events like Rocking the Daisies, Black Coffee’s Block Party, or the DStv Delicious Festival, Smash knows how to command a crowd.

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Speaking about his new role, Smash expressed heartfelt gratitude and excitement:

“I’m beyond grateful and honestly speechless because this opportunity was always meant to be. Looking back at my journey in radio and TV, it feels like everything I have done has been leading to this moment. I may not have shouted it from the rooftops or had it on a vision board, but deep down, I knew something big was coming.”

As the host of Big Brother Mzansi, Smash will guide viewers through the season’s twists, challenges, and dramatic moments, ensuring fans are on the edge of their seats. With his deep understanding of South African culture and a flair for storytelling, Smash promises to create an unforgettable viewing experience.

What excites him most about this new chapter?

“I’m hyped for the experience ahead and can’t wait to bring that energy to the audience at home and to the housemates whenever I can. I want to make sure everyone walks away feeling something good. The feel-good host is here, baby! Let’s get it!”

The return of Big Brother Mzansi is set to deliver a season brimming with surprises, fresh housemates, and gripping drama. Fans can expect nothing less than a wild ride as Smash Afrika brings his unique spark to the show. To stay updated on all things Big Brother Mzansi, visit the official pages on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X, or follow Mzansi Magic on the same platforms. Don’t forget to join the conversation using the hashtag #BBMzansi.

MORE NEWS UPDATES

9 January 2025 – Mzansi Magic is set and ready to reveal this season’s housemates live this Sunday, 12 January at 6pm as they prepare to take up residence in the newly redecorated Big Brother House. 

https://twitter.com/lamagafrica/status/1877369867503886677

Mark your calendars, set a reminder and gather your friends! Big Brother Mzansi S5 premieres on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) and will also be available for DStv Access viewers on Mzansi Wethu (DStv Channel 163) this Sunday, 12 January at 6pm – 8pm, thereafter, viewers can enjoy all the live action on the BBM 24-hour channel (DStv channel 198)!

13 January 2025 – Big Brother Mzansi season 5 kicked off with an electrifying launch hosted by Smash Afrika, whose high-energy presence and fashionable outfits set the tone for a thrilling season. The event introduced 20 housemates eager to make their mark, ready to bring drama and excitement.

A surprising twist added even more intrigue when four additional housemates were introduced through a housemate decider game, led by Bonnie Bee. The revamped Biggie’s mansion house added a lavish, high-energy backdrop for the season, promising a thrilling ride filled with surprises and unforgettable moments.

Meet your housemates:

1. Abobo (Abongile Salli) – (30) Educator, actor and football enthusiast from Khayelitsha, Cape Town. “I firmly believe that if you truly desire something, you can ultimately achieve it.”
2. Mandy Hagan (Amanda Makhathini) – (25) A Jo’burg supermum who loves dancing, singing and all things beauty. “I need to grow and prove that I’m capable of achieving anything I put my mind to. 
3. Ezra (Abongile Mhambi) – (27) A farmer and gym enthusiast from Butterworth, East London who is always proactive. He loves sports, animals, hunting, cooking, and baking. “Knowing a little about many things can always help.”
4. Sweet Guluva (Akhonamathemba Mbele) – (23) A student, upcoming actor, model, artist, football player, and barber from Cape Town. “I am a bubbly human and very open-minded. I am a person of value and respect.”
5. Ash-ley Ogle (Ash-ley Ogle) – (26) A lover of Christ filled with enthusiasm and a passion for fashion, from Durban. “The sky is too close to earth to be my limit. However, humility will always seize the day.”
6. Beekay (Bokang Chephetsa) – (23) A cable official from Qwaqwa with a passion for marketing, fashion, events management, and problem-solving. “I believe life is about creating unforgettable memories! I thrive in competitive environments and love pushing my limits, whether it’s conquering a mountain or mastering a new role.”
7. Bonni Bee (Bongiwe Booi) – (27) A verbal expressionist from Johannesburg who loves cooking and is a people’s person.  “Depending on the situation I’m an introvert but by nature I’m an extrovert.”
8. Kay B (Florence Mphirime) – (22) A final year education student from Bloemfontein and CEO of a training academy for aspiring models and actors who loves cooking and going out. “I am a model coach and a freelance professional model.”
9. Nate (Fortunate Setwaba) – (25) A medical orthotist by profession, Queer black woman, makeup artist, entrepreneur and a digital content creator. She is essentially a baddie with brains from Johannesburg. “I consider myself very funny, I like dark humour and practically bathe in it.”
10. Savage (Hassaan Rigney) – (29) International fitness director on a cruise ship and currently one of the best top 5 fitness directors across 200 cruise ships worldwide, from Johannesburg. “Anything is possible when you humble yourself, have a strong mindset, stay positive, and include fun in everything you do.”
11. Jojo (Karabo Sejojo) – (22) A fun, dramatic, moody, and energetic woman from Bloemfontein who loves reading, editing videos, and trading. “JoJo is a Pastor’s kid, so being around different personalities is no challenge.”
12. Luzuko (Luzuko Mashalaba)– (26) A Johannesburg-based avid sports enthusiast, reader of literature who loves debating and watching movies and series. “I like encountering and engaging with people because I believe there’s a lot we can learn from each other rather than being isolated.” 
13. Mata (Mathapelo Mashila) – (27) popularly known as Rainbow, she is an artist from Vaal who enjoys brainteasers and sporty activities. “Mata is fearless, strong-willed, adventurous, caring, smart and a fun young woman.”
14. Melino (Mmelesi Mothei) – (33) Super extroverted guy from Soweto who loves hiking, discovering new music, and travelling.  “Very adventurous, very passionate I’m shy at times. I’m [an] oxymoron at times. I like being extra.”
15. Gugu (Nokulunga Ndabezitha) – (34) From Johannesburg, loves creating looks for funeral homes (corpses), writing stories, being a corporate pitbull, and restaurant hopping. “I believe that the Big Brother universe is the only platform that can let me be me. I would like to show the world more about Gugu.”
16. Philile (Philile Nzama) – (31) A Zulu maiden from Durban, who has an identical twin sister. She loves reading, participating in sports, and partying. “My bright and beautiful smile can light up any room and one could say it’s my signature.”
17. Muzi-TheMbuzi (Muziomhle Mdluli) – (29) A bright and fun personality from Johannesburg who loves photography. “I’m a young talented individual who wants to see himself do well in life.” 
18. Nsuku (Nsuku Mabunda) – (29) From Johannesburg, is currently pursuing a second advanced diploma with a background in modelling and acting, also loves hanging out with friends. “My love for the truth drives me to speak honestly, even when it may be uncomfortable for others.” 
19. Sipha Lee (Sphamandla Mthembu) – (29) Fun and charming, a die-hard Man United fan and grassroots football coach from Johannesburg. “I love learning new things, be it a language or a culture. Oh yes, and I have a great sense of humour, haha.”
20. Mshini (Siphesihle Lekwadu) – (23) Tutor by profession. The “go-to ball of energy” who loves football and the spotlight, from Johannesburg. “I bring my A game to everything I do and thrive on trying new and turning ordinary into extraordinary.”
21. Siphesihle (Siphesihle Mabaso) – (28) A financial advisor from Secunda who enjoys modelling, singing and DJing. She is a go-getter with a silver tongue and truly embraces the phrase “Don’t limit yourself”.
22. Swiss (Siyabonga Mlangeni) – (28) Current cyber security student from Pietermaritzburg who loves coaching primary school basketball, camping, and being an MC. “I know I’m very capable of entertaining and bringing excitement to people, I know I’m destined for more than my current life right now.”
23. Tyrone (Tyrone Willard) – (26) A charismatic and vibrant multilingual sensation from Johannesburg who loves going to art galleries and museums and sleeping some days. “With pride and confidence, I carry myself with an irresistible charm, making everyone feel welcome and included.”
24. Uyanda (Uyanda Hlangabezo) – (23) A pedagogical practitioner from Gqeberha who loves going out. “I am a man with a positive aura, I’m fun, entertaining, and honest. I believe I have all that it takes to win the show.”