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Somizi Mhlongo dated actress Palesa Madisakwane while in a relationship with an anonymous man.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailysun.co.za/News/Entertainment/palesa-opens-up-about-raising-a-child-with-somizi-20161010|title=Palesa speaks on co-parenting with somizi!|website=Daily Sun}}</ref> Leading him to [[Coming out|come out]] as [[bisexual]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/lifestyle/your-life-entertainment-your-life/entertainment-celebrities/1645243/when-my-daughter-was-conceived-i-thought-i-was-bisexual-says-somizi/|title=When my daughter was conceived I thought I was bisexual, says Somizi|website=The Citizen}}</ref> Palesa Madisakwane and Somizi welcomed their first child Bahumi Madisakwane on the 19th of February 1995. Somizi later came out as Gay which resulted to his split with Palesa. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2017-09-07-somizi-reflects-on-finding-out-he-was-going-to-be-a-father/|title=Somizi reflects on finding out he was going to be a father|website=TimesLIVE}}</ref>
Somizi Mhlongo dated actress Palesa Madisakwane while in a relationship with an anonymous man.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dailysun.co.za/News/Entertainment/palesa-opens-up-about-raising-a-child-with-somizi-20161010|title=Palesa speaks on co-parenting with somizi!|website=Daily Sun}}</ref> Leading him to [[Coming out|come out]] as [[bisexual]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/lifestyle/your-life-entertainment-your-life/entertainment-celebrities/1645243/when-my-daughter-was-conceived-i-thought-i-was-bisexual-says-somizi/|title=When my daughter was conceived I thought I was bisexual, says Somizi|website=The Citizen}}</ref> Palesa Madisakwane and Somizi welcomed their first child Bahumi Madisakwane on the 19th of February 1995. Somizi later came out as Gay which resulted to his split with Palesa. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2017-09-07-somizi-reflects-on-finding-out-he-was-going-to-be-a-father/|title=Somizi reflects on finding out he was going to be a father|website=TimesLIVE}}</ref>


Somizi has kept his relationships private,however,in 2017 rumors surfaced that he is dating a South African Model/entrepreneur Mohale Tebogo Motaung. The two confirmed these rumors in 2018. Somizi proposed to Mohale while on their vacation in [[Paris]], [[France]]. Somizi and Mohale got married in a traditional wedding on the 28th of September 2019, they proceeded with a white wedding on 30th of January 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2018-03-19-somizi-asked--mohale-said-yes-somhale-are-engaged/|title=Somizi asked & Mohale said yes! #Somhale are engaged|website=TimesLIVE}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.enca.com/life/pictures-somizi-and-mohale-tie-knot|title=IN PICTURES: Somizi and Mohale tie the knot|website=eNCA}}</ref>
Somizi has kept his relationships private,however,in 2017 rumors surfaced that he is dating a South African Model/entrepreneur Mohale Tebogo Motaung. The two confirmed these rumors in 2018. Somizi proposed to Mohale while on their vacation in [[Paris]], [[France]]. Somizi and Mohale got married in a traditional wedding on the 28th of September 2019, they proceeded with a white wedding on the 30th of January 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2018-03-19-somizi-asked--mohale-said-yes-somhale-are-engaged/|title=Somizi asked & Mohale said yes! #Somhale are engaged|website=TimesLIVE}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.enca.com/life/pictures-somizi-and-mohale-tie-knot|title=IN PICTURES: Somizi and Mohale tie the knot|website=eNCA}}</ref>


On February 14th 2020, the couple made a guest appearance on Metro FM-Morning Flava breakfast show. During the interview, Somizi said, they investing in a new home and they'll jet off on their honeymoon to Coachella and Dubai in April. They also hinted a third wedding in Italy.
On February 14th 2020, the couple made a guest appearance on Metro FM-Morning Flava breakfast show. During the interview, Somizi said, they investing in a new home and they'll jet off on their honeymoon to Coachella and Dubai in April. They also hinted a third wedding in Italy.

Revision as of 20:31, 1 May 2020

Somizi Mhlongo
File:Somizi Mhlongo 2018.jpg
Born
Somizi Buyani Mhlongo

(1972-12-23) December 23, 1972 (age 51)[1]
NationalitySouth African
Other namesSomgaga,Som G
Occupations
Years active1978-present
Known forIdols South Africa (judge) Sarafina
Spouse
Tebogo Mohale Motaung
(m. 2019)
ChildrenBahumi Madisakwane

Somizi Buyani Mhlongo (born 23 December 1972) 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.[2] 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.[3][4]

After starring and taking part in choreography for Sarafina!, Mhlongo also appeared in several films including drama film Cry, the Beloved Country (1995).[5] Mhlongo ventured in music which was critical and commercial failure. He then made a revival with his song Ngibonile (2017) featuring house producer Heavy K.

With numerous television appearances, Mhlongo became one of the notable and successful personalities in South African industry. He appeared in various television shows, including Idols South Africa (2015–present), V Entertainment (2018–present), and his reality show Living the Dream with Somizi (2016–present).[6] Somizi is a beloved figure in South Africa, and is often referred to as the 'face of the country.'

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.[7] 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 .[8] In 1992, he then joined the musical and political film, Sarafina! in which he played his own name but given a nickname Whacko.[9] He also appeared in films including Kein Himmel über Afrika (1993) and Cry, the Beloved Country (1995).[10]

Mhlongo was featured on the television series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures in 1996.[11] Mhlongo's biggest judging duty was when he was appointed as the new judge for the eleventh season of Idols South Africa.[12] He was also a lead judge on the former SABC 1 competition show Dance Your Butt Off alongside actress and dancer Khabonina Qubeka.[13] In 2016, Mhlongo premiered his reality show Living the Dream with Somizi which aired on Mzansi Magic.[14] Other TV credits include City Ses'la, Ayeye and 10 Over 10.[15]

Mhlongo hosted various award shows notably being the South African Music Awards where he co-hosted for 3 consecutive years (2016, 2017 and 2018).[16] On April 26, 2018, Mhlongo was the featured roastee in Comedy Central's annual roast special.[17]

Choreography

Mhlongo's debut choreography work was on the musical film Sarafina!.[18] 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.[19] He also danced, and turned into a choreographer for the gospel choir, Joyous Celebration.

In 2017, Mhlongo released a dance workout DVD Grind! With Somizi which was available at Verimark.[20] 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.[21] 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.[22]

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.[23] He then endorsed with the Department of Water and Sanitation later that year.[24] He also endorsed with McDonald's South Africa in being the face of McCafé Coach Sessions.[25]

Writing

On June 29, 2017, Mhlongo released his autobiographical book named Dominoes, Unbreakable Spirit.[26] 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.[27]

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.[28]

Personal life

Somizi Mhlongo dated actress Palesa Madisakwane while in a relationship with an anonymous man.[29] Leading him to come out as bisexual.[30] Palesa Madisakwane and Somizi welcomed their first child Bahumi Madisakwane on the 19th of February 1995. Somizi later came out as Gay which resulted to his split with Palesa. [31]

Somizi has kept his relationships private,however,in 2017 rumors surfaced that he is dating a South African Model/entrepreneur Mohale Tebogo Motaung. The two confirmed these rumors in 2018. Somizi proposed to Mohale while on their vacation in Paris, France. Somizi and Mohale got married in a traditional wedding on the 28th of September 2019, they proceeded with a white wedding on the 30th of January 2020.[32] [33]

On February 14th 2020, the couple made a guest appearance on Metro FM-Morning Flava breakfast show. During the interview, Somizi said, they investing in a new home and they'll jet off on their honeymoon to Coachella and Dubai in April. They also hinted a third wedding in Italy.

Filmography

Film

Year Title Role Notes
1986 Scavengers Jeffrey
1992 Sarafina! Fire (as Somizi "Whacko" Mhlongo)
1994 Kien Hiüber Afrika Himself Cameo appearance
1995 Cry, the Beloved Country Young Thief
2006 Black Beulahs Himself Television film

Television

Year Title Role Notes
1993 African Skies Juice 1 episode
1996 Tarzan: The Epic Adventures 1 episode
2004 Zero Tolerance Danielle
2007 City Ses'la Madam Gigi Guest
2010–2012 Dance Your Butt Off Himself Judge; All episodes
2013 and 2016 10 Over 10 Himself Commentator; Season 1 and 4
2013 Zaziwa Himself Guest
2014 The Comedy Central Roast of Kenny Kunene Himself Roaster
2014 Reality Check Himself 1 episode
2015 aYeYe Baps 1 episode
2015–present Idols South Africa Himself Judge
2015 All That BS Himself 1 episode
2016–2018 South African Film and Television Awards Himself Red Carpet host; Performer - 2018
2016–present Living the Dream with Somizi Himself Main role
2016 22nd South African Music Awards Himself Co-host
2017 23rd South African Music Awards Himself Co-host
2017–present V Entertainment Himself Co-host
2018 The Comedy Central Roast of Somizi Himself Roastee
2018 24th South African Music Awards Himself Co-host
2018 Tropika Smooth Fan Himself Contestant
2018 Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 Himself Red Carpet host

Choreography

  • Miss South Africa
  • Metro FM awards
  • Afcon 2013 Opening and Closing Ceremonies
  • South African Music Award (SAMAs)
  • Fifa World Cup 2010 Opening and Closing Ceremonies

References

  1. ^ "Somizi Mhlongo reveals his age". The Citizen. Retrieved 27 November 2016.
  2. ^ "Gaga over Somizi". SowetanLIVE.
  3. ^ "How Somizi won South Africa's heart". Channel24.
  4. ^ Mbele, Gabi (13 January 2013). "Spectacular ceremony to kick off Afcon". Sunday Times. Johannesburg. Retrieved 21 April 2019.
  5. ^ "Cry, the Beloved Country (1995)". IMDb.
  6. ^ "Somizi and Nomuzi score gig on revamped V- Entertainment". TimesLIVE.
  7. ^ "Somizi On His Parents' Love". People Magazine.
  8. ^ "Somizi Mhlongo". Famous Faces.
  9. ^ "Sarafina! (1992". IMDb.
  10. ^ "Somizi Mhlongo". IMDb.
  11. ^ Tiwane, Bonginkosi (13 January 2013). "Celebrating Somizi the idol". Sowetan. Johannesburg. Retrieved 21 April 2019.
  12. ^ "Somizi is Idols SA's newest judge". eNCA.
  13. ^ "Dance Your Butt Off". TVSA.
  14. ^ "Living The Dream With Somizi". Mzansi Magic.
  15. ^ "Somizi Mhlongo". TVSA.
  16. ^ "Somizi leads the SAMA24 host team". SABC.
  17. ^ "Who Passed And Who Failed At The Roast of Somizi". People Magazine.
  18. ^ "Watch: Somizi shows off Sarafina! choreography". Bona Magazine.
  19. ^ "Somizi Steps Up". e.tv.
  20. ^ "You have to watch Somizi's Verimark ad". Channel24.
  21. ^ "DJ Fresh teams up with Somizi on The Fresh Breakfast Show". News24.
  22. ^ "Somizi 'Grateful' as he joins #TheBridge on Metro FM". SA Breaking News.
  23. ^ "Somizi Mhlongo is a living legend". News24.
  24. ^ "WATCH: Somizi's hilarious water campaign video". eNCA.
  25. ^ "Somizi announced as the face of McCafé Couch Sessions". Channel24.
  26. ^ "Dominoes: Unbreakable Spirit - The Somizi Mhlongo Story - Signed Pre-order Edition". Exclusive Books.
  27. ^ "Somizi's new book 'Dominoes: Unbreakable Spirit' will release this week". YoMzansi.
  28. ^ "You can download Somizi's new single with Heavy K here". Channel24.
  29. ^ "Palesa speaks on co-parenting with somizi!". Daily Sun.
  30. ^ "When my daughter was conceived I thought I was bisexual, says Somizi". The Citizen.
  31. ^ "Somizi reflects on finding out he was going to be a father". TimesLIVE.
  32. ^ "Somizi asked & Mohale said yes! #Somhale are engaged". TimesLIVE.
  33. ^ "IN PICTURES: Somizi and Mohale tie the knot". eNCA.