Latest news with #RelebogileMabotja
News24
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News24
Dawn Thandeka King opens up about her divorce on Untied: ‘That killed me'
Behind the spotlight, celebrities are often perceived as having it all together - flawless careers, perfect marriages or relationships, and Instagram worthy lives. But what happens when the curtain is pulled back? Showmax has recently launched a show called 'Untied' which reminds us that even the brightest stars are human, with emotions, struggles, and imperfections. A force in South African entertainment, Dawn Thandeka King is a SAFTA-winning actress, musician, motivational speaker, radio personality, and fashion entrepreneur. She's currently captivating audiences as Mkabayi on Shaka iLembe on Mzansi Magic and will star in BET's new daily drama Black Gold from next month, but on Untied, we meet the woman behind the roles. Hosted by the award-winning broadcaster Relebogile Mabotja, this episode offers a rare, intimate look at Dawn like never before. Read more | 'This is who he is': Norma Mngoma on explosive Showmax tell-all about ex Malusi Gigaba Here's why you need to watch: She opens up about her spiritual journey Dawn shares a deeply personal look into her spiritual awakening, how her connection with her ancestors and faith guided her through some of the darkest moments of her life, and how her gift also guided her into a career as an actress and her breakthrough into the industry: 'Because I then found an agency, and then my agency found me a job, and that was my first acting gig in 2012. I often wonder whether it was the reason I went through this journey that opened that door.' She gets real about motherhood As a mother of five, Dawn speaks candidly about the joys and challenges of raising children while juggling fame, heartbreak, and personal growth. She also opens up about the difficult time when she had to leave her kids and husband in Joburg to join Uzalo, where she played Lindiwe Xulu. 'I don't know when it became an 'I' thing. I moved alone to Durban.' She confronts infidelity and heartbreak For the first time, Dawn opens up about the alleged infidelity in her marriage, how it affected her emotionally, how she processed the betrayal, and the journey to reclaim her peace. She also spoke about how her husband at the time was not speaking to her about his issues – but was rather opening up to someone else. 'He wasn't saying that to me. He was saying it to someone else. I think that killed me. I felt abandoned.' She talks about choosing herself Dawn reflects on the courage it took to walk away from her marriage and rebuild her life. Her story is a testament to self-worth, healing, and the strength it takes to start over, even when it hurts. We are halfway through Untied but there is so much still to come including reality TV star Beverley Steyn, actress Mona Monyane, and media personality Zandi Nhlapo, who are set to open up and share their journeys.
Mail & Guardian
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mail & Guardian
The art of holding space: Relebogile Mabotja on love, loss and Untied
A listening ear: Relebogile Mabotja hosts and is the associate producer of Untied, a series in which each episode focuses on one woman's story of breakup and healing. Relebogile Mabotja is no stranger to the spotlight. From radio to television, she has built a reputation for her sharp intellect, commanding presence and the gift of making the most delicate conversations feel like home. But in her latest Showmax series, Untied, in which she is host and associate producer, she shifts the spotlight off herself and onto the experiences of women navigating the messy terrain of separation, heartbreak and healing. The result is raw, riveting and deeply human. The show features Beverly Steyn, Nonku Williams, Dawn Thandeka King, Mona Monyane, Palesa Madisakwane, Zandi Nhlapo and Sonia Booth. We meet through a video call. It's one of those afternoon meetings that feel more like a catch-up with a cousin than a formal interview. Before we dive into the depths of the show, I have to get this out of the way: the outfits in Untied? Absolutely breathtaking. 'Oh, thank you,' she beams. 'I wish I could take credit, but there's an amazing stylist behind that. They made sure everything was perfect.' But what Untied gets right beyond the aesthetics is its unwavering emotional honesty. It's not just another heartbreak show. It's a tribute to resilience. Each episode gives space to one woman's story of love lost, relationships redefined and the quiet courage it takes to begin again. At the centre of it all is Mabotja, a host who doesn't posture or pry but gently holds space. 'What draws you to these kinds of stories?' I ask. Her answer is simple: curiosity. 'I'm drawn to human experiences. I've always been curious about what we go through as people, and love and loss are something we can all relate to.' She didn't think she'd be chosen to host the show. 'I pitched for it and didn't get it,' she laughs. 'When they called me, I said, 'Are you sure? I thought someone who'd gone through what some of these ladies have been through would be more relatable.' But they were clear. They wanted me. And once it started, I understood why. It was meant to be.' For Mabotja, this moment aligns with a deeper calling. 'I was already intentional about being the go-to person for sensitive conversations. I don't think of myself as someone who only facilitates divorce stories. I'm drawn to vulnerable, complex stories, ones that ask us to show up fully.' Watching Untied, you feel the safety in the room. These women, many of whom are telling their stories on camera for the first time, offer their truths freely. I ask how she manages to create such trust. Her answer feels less like technique and more like an ethic of care. 'I ask myself, how would I want someone to ask me a difficult question?' she says. 'Some therapists have told me, 'You're in your therapy era,'' she chuckles. 'But really, I've always believed in talk therapy and the power of different kinds of healing. I try to create a judgment-free zone, a space with a listening ear that comes in without assumptions.' Some of the guests she knows. Many she doesn't. But she approaches each conversation with radical openness. 'If I'm not careful, my own biases could steer the conversation in a direction that's not true to them. So I have to stay open.' One episode in particular stayed with her long after the cameras stopped rolling. It hasn't aired yet, but it involves the death of a child. 'That one touched me in ways I can't explain,' she says. 'As a parent, you become more sensitive to certain topics. You hear people say, 'When a mother loses a child, every mother grieves with her.' And it's true. Even when I knew beforehand what the episode was about, I could never prepare myself emotionally. You don't get desensitised to that kind of pain.' There's a depth of emotional labour involved in work like this. But Mabotja doesn't rely on scripts or autopilot. She prepares in a deeply personal way. 'The team gives me a brief based on the pre-interviews, but before I sit down, I disconnect from everything else in my life. I have to fully arrive. I don't work with a script, I rely on active listening. That's how I stay present.' In a world of hot takes and hyper-reactions, Untied is refreshingly unhurried. It doesn't weaponise pain for ratings. It listens. Mabotja was determined to keep it that way. 'I told myself from the beginning: I'm not going to cry for the sake of crying or become someone I'm not. I've never been a sensationalist. It doesn't interest me and it doesn't align with who I am.' That refusal to perform pain or exploit it for entertainment is what gives Untied its emotional credibility. 'Yes, sometimes I can be funny or spicy,' she says, 'but I always try to be authentic. If a viewer feels like they're eavesdropping on a conversation between friends, then I know I've done my job.' Has the show changed her view on love, separation or healing? She says: 'What it's really shown me is how much we can carry as human beings. We are far more resilient than we realise. Some of these women have gone through so much and come out the other side wiser, more grounded, more whole. It's not just about love or marriage or divorce. It's about capacity. About growth.' I ask what it looks like for her, personally, to be 'untied' from something emotionally heavy. She pauses. Her answer is layered. 'My dad always says, 'It's okay to pause it.' When something is overwhelming, we want to fix it now. But sometimes, you just need to put it down for a while. Not because it's not important, but because you need to protect your own capacity.' She also speaks about changing the narratives we tell ourselves. 'You can talk about your past without letting it define you. I've had to untie myself from stories like 'I'm not worthy' or 'I'm not good enough.' Those stories are not the truth, they're just the stories I told myself once.' And finally, she says, it's about updating the tools you use to survive. 'There could be a time where someone who operated from scarcity can now be scared of not having money, for example. But when that phase of your life is over, you can't keep using the same tools. You've got to grow with the problem. That's part of the untying too.' Our time runs out, but the conversation feels unfinished in the best possible way, like one you'll return to later, when you need to. That's what Untied does. It doesn't wrap things up in a neat bow. It sits with the mess, the grief, the beauty, and the strength that comes with being human. 'I just hope people see themselves in these stories,' Mabotja says, 'and realise they're not alone.'
The South African
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Norma Mngoma to share divorce journey on Showmax's 'Untied'
Showmax's groundbreaking talk show Untied continues to make waves in South Africa. The show offers a raw look into the complexities of divorce through the eyes of high-profile women. Since its debut three weeks ago, the series has captivated audiences with its unfiltered conversations. It sheds light on the emotional journeys of women ending their marriages. Hosted by award-winning media personality Relebogile Mabotja, Untied dives deep into stories that are often hidden behind closed doors. The show refuses to shy away from the pain, growth, and resilience that define the divorce experience, according to Showmax Stories. 'For too long, women's pain has been edited, softened, or silenced,' says Graeme Swanepoel, creator and executive producer of Untied at GOAT. 'This show is about handing the mic back to them, letting them narrate their healing.' Next week, viewers will hear from Norma Mngoma, who will share her journey through marriage, divorce, and the strength it took to rebuild her life. Her episode airs on Tuesday, 15 July, promising an intimate and inspiring story that resonates with many navigating similar paths. But Norma's story is just the beginning. The series will also feature four more powerful women. This includes reality TV star Beverly Steyn and Shaka iLembe actress Dawn Thandeka King. Each will open up about their own experiences, giving viewers a rare glimpse into the emotional toll and eventual empowerment that comes from divorce. The show's bold approach is a breath of fresh air in South African media. It challenges the stigma around divorce and encourages open dialogue. By focusing on women's voices, Untied highlights the strength and resilience that often go unnoticed. Relebogile Mabotja emphasises the importance of these stories. 'It's not just about divorce,' she explains. 'It's about healing, reclaiming your narrative, and finding freedom in the aftermath.' Untied airs exclusively on Showmax, making it accessible to South African audiences eager for authentic storytelling. The series not only entertains but also educates, fostering empathy and understanding around a topic that affects many families across the country. In a society where divorce is often met with judgement or silence, Untied breaks the mould. It offers a platform for women to speak their truth and inspire others to do the same. As Swanepoel puts it, 'This is about empowerment through storytelling. It's about showing that there is life after divorce, and it can be a powerful, positive chapter.' Untied's compelling narratives and fearless honesty will make it a landmark series in South African television. The show invites viewers to witness the messy, emotional, and ultimately hopeful journeys of women who refuse to let their past define them. 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.
News24
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
‘No one-size-fits-all': Relebogile Mabotja on tackling divorce stigma on new show Untied
Relebogile Mabotja told News24 that she creates safety for the guests by remaining 'open and not overly prepped'. Be among those who shape the future with knowledge. Uncover exclusive stories that captivate your mind and heart with our FREE 14-day subscription trial. Dive into a world of inspiration, learning, and empowerment. You can only trial once. Show Comments ()
The Citizen
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Rebecca Malope to receive lifetime honour at Basadi in Music Awards
The awards recognise women across a range of categories in music, media, and entertainment. Legendary gospel artist Dr Rebecca Malope will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Basadi in Music Awards. The 4th annual ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, 2 August, at the Joburg Theatre. 'We are proud to announce our Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Dr Rebecca Malope… Her soul-stirring voice and unwavering dedication have shaped the heartbeat of our nation's music for decades,' the organisation announced. Malope, often referred to as the Queen of Gospel, has had a career spanning more than three decades and remains one of South Africa's most celebrated artists. In addition to Malope's honour, the awards will recognise women across a range of categories in music, media, and entertainment. ALSO READ: Wilson B Nkosi to receive Lifetime Achievement honour Full list of Basadi in Music Awards 2025 nominees The awards will be held over two days, starting on Friday, 1 August 2025, with the Vanguard Awards, which honour women working behind the scenes in entertainment. The main Basadi in Music Awards ceremony will take place the following day, Saturday, 2 August, at the Joburg Theatre, recognising musical excellence across a wide range of genres and categories. The Vanguard Awards – Day 1 Artist Manager of the Year: Hloni Hlo Mohlala Phindile Matroshe Tholsi Pillay Maphuthi Perez Miss T Thwala Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year: Relebogile Mabotja – 702 Unplugged Sessions Lootlove – The Touchdown on Metro FM Hlekani Shikwambana – Capricorn Experience, Capricorn FM Lebo Maoela – Lesedi FM Kgomotso Meso – Kaya 959 Mannehileng Letuka – Lesedi FM Entertainment Journalist of the Year: Keitumetse Maako – News24 Joy Mphande – TshisaLIVE Nokuthula Zwane – Media24 Mbali Mbatha – City Press Mapule Pule – Maftown Online Choreographer of the Year: Delta the Leo Bontle Modiselle-Moloi Tlhogi Molefi Entertainment TV Presenter of the Year: Lerai Newsish – MTV Base Zanele Potela – Hotspot Seli Mpumi Mlambo – Ushuni Womhlaba, SABC 1 Best Styled Artist of the Year: Faith K Moozlie Kamo Mphela Anele Zondo (Ney the Bae) Entertainment TV Producer of the Year: Relebogile Mabotja – Tyla's Showmax Homecoming Concert Dineo Lusenga – The Orbit (YouTube) Entertainment Radio Producer of the Year: Tlou Tlonae – Capricorn Breakfast, Capricorn FM Phindile Mthombeni – The AM Prime Show, Emalahleni FM Noni Khumalo – The Lunch League Y Dineo Lusenga – The Midday Link Up, Metro FM Make-Up Artist of the Year: Bongi Mlotswa Nomsa Madida Nono Linchwe Stephy Kwanaite Hairstylist of the Year: Hair by Nana R Ntombomzi Lekgoro Mbalezwehair Jullz_Hairstylist Tumelo Mj Afrobotique Podcast Presenter of the Year: Pharoahfi – Popcorn and Cheese Relebogile Mabotja – The Relebogile Mabotja Podcast Laconco – Timeline with Laconco Si Jones – Si Sessions Africa The Music Awards – Day 2 Afropop Artist of the Year: Zethe – Abantu Nomakhosini – Angsafuni Ngami Motlanalo – Goya Goyile Naledi Aphiwe – Romeo and Juliet Lwah Ndlunkulu – Mnakwethu Amapiano Artist of the Year: Kamo Mphela – Woza Pabi Cooper – Pabi Jo Zee Nxumalo – Ngisakuthanda Bassie Kwelanga – 2.0 Babalwa M – Bothata Sofnfree Artist of the Year: Zee Nxumalo – Ngisakuthanda Xolly Mncwango – Liyabasebenzela Kamo Mphela – Woza Nontokozo Mkhize – Esandleni Makhadzi – Number 1 Collaboration of the Year: Cici & Liema – Pantsi Impumelelo Babalwa M & Yallunder – Mthuthuzeli Mpho Sebina & Lioness Ratang – Lioness Nosipho, Cici & Liema – Home Boohle, DEE Koala & K Mat – Iskhath' Sam Manje Dance Artist of the Year: Manana Highness – Mdali Makhadzi – Number 1 Shandesh – Sdudla/Slender Kharishma – Chokesmal Azana – Abogogo DJ of the Year: Lerato Kganyago DJ Tshepi Lamiez Holworthy DJ Zinhle Kele Megano Gospel Artist of the Year: Mapula Monyepao – Hale Phirimile Nontokozo Mkhize – Esandleni Sneizy Uyinqaba – Yethu Xolly Mncwango – Liyabasebenzela Sindi Ntombela – Ulithemba Lethu Hip Hop Artist of the Year: Ms Kulie – Dyi Baddie Nadia Nakai – No Problems Gigi Lamayne – Bleed Mama StaticFlo – Seven7 Faith – K Qosh Jazz Artist of the Year: Salphina Kadiaka – Champaign Rorisang Sechele – Tsoga Tshenolo – Freedom Song Gabi Motuba – Order My Steps Reggae Artist of the Year: Dimahr – Dry Tears Undefynd – Danceholic Lani M – Carried Away Sankie Fayauman – Motherland MadaGlory – Graceful Dub Traditional Artist of the Year: Phumla Music – Makhonjwa MmaAusi – 2 Pula Esther Mphahlele – Basadi Miss Hillary – Hangwani Song of the Year: Zee Nxumalo – Ngisakuthanda Bassie Kwelanga – 2.0 Nontokozo Mkhize – Esandleni Aya Msani – Dubai 2.0 Lwa Ndlunkulu – Mnakwethu Songwriter of the Year: Bongiwe Mngomezulu – Uyangihola Liema Pantsi – Let Me Be Cnethemba Gonelo – Lindishonele Motlanalo – Goya Goyile Zoe Modiga – Uyakhazimula Newcomer of the Year: Nonny Muji – Nguye Ayarhkay – Hamba Lani M – What You Made Of Mega Snowflake – Aketeng Pop Artist of the Year: Chante – Stay the Night Tasha Baxter – Bipolar Bear Jamie Lee Sexton – Missing Anica Kiana – Kiss Me Hard Music Video of the Year: Liema Pantsi – Let Me Be Zee Nxumalo – Ngisakuthanda Naledi Aphiwe – Ngiyabonga Kharishma – Chokeslem Pabi Cooper – Pabi Jo NOW READ: Like father, Like son: Dr Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh earns law degree
