Somizi Mhlongo Net Worth, Bio, Age, Husband, Career

Somizi Mhlongo Bio, Wiki

Somizi Mhlongo, whose birth name is Somizi Buyani Mhlongo, is a versatile South African media personality known for his roles as a television presenter, actor, choreographer, and socialite.

He rose to prominence in 1992 after appearing in the musical and politically-themed film “Sarafina!”, which brought him widespread fame during that era.

After achieving success with “Sarafina!”, Mhlongo continued his career as the main choreographer for various performances and events. This included his significant role in choreographing the grand opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

In addition to his work in “Sarafina!”, Mhlongo expanded his acting career, appearing in various films, including the drama “Cry, the Beloved Country” in 1995. He has also been a prominent presence on South African television, participating in shows such as “Idols South Africa” and “V Entertainment.”

Somizi Mhlongo Age

Mhlongo was born in Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa on December 23, 1972. He will be 50 years old in 2023.

Somizi Mhlongo Height

Mhlongo’s height measures 1.71 meters.

Somizi Mhlongo Family

Mhlongo was born to his parents South African actress Mary Twala and actor-comedian Ndaba Mhlongo. Growing up in an environment shaped by his parents’ involvement in the entertainment industry, he was introduced to it from a tender age. He had a single sibling, his brother Archie, who tragically lost his life in a fatal stabbing incident in 1985.

Somizi Mhlongo Spouse/Husband

Mhlongo was initially in a relationship with an unnamed man while dating actress Palesa Madisakwane, which prompted him to publicly come out as bisexual. During this time, Madisakwane and Mhlongo welcomed their first child, Bahumi Madisakwane, born on 19 February 1995. Subsequently, Mhlongo later identified as gay, leading to the end of his relationship with Madisakwane.

Mhlongo has typically kept his romantic relationships out of the public eye. However, in 2017, there were speculations about his involvement with South African model and entrepreneur Mohale Tebogo Motaung. These speculations were confirmed in 2018 when Mhlongo proposed to Motaung during their vacation in Paris, France. The couple had a traditional wedding on 28 September 2019 and a white wedding on 30 January 2020.

Somizi Mhlongo Career

Film and television

Mhlongo embarked on his acting career at the age of 13 when he made his debut in the film “Scavengers” in 1987. In 1992, he had the fortunate opportunity to play a noteworthy role in the music and politically-themed movie “Sarafina!” In the film, he portrayed a character named Fire, affectionately referred to as “Whacko.” His filmography also includes appearances in movies like “Kein Himmel über Afrika” (1993) and “Cry, the Beloved Country” (1995).

In 1996, Mhlongo ventured into television, featuring in the series “Tarzan: The Epic Adventures.” He gained prominence as a judge, notably on the eleventh season of “Idols South Africa.” Additionally, he served as a lead judge on the former SABC 1 competition show “Dance Your Butt Off,” alongside actress and dancer Khabonina Qubeka. In 2016, Mhlongo introduced his reality show titled “Living the Dream with Somizi,” which aired on Mzansi Magic. His television credits also encompass shows such as “City Ses’la,” “Ayeye,” and “10 Over 10.”

Mhlongo further expanded his hosting repertoire, including his role as a co-host for the South African Music Awards for three consecutive years (2016, 2017, and 2018). On April 26, 2018, he was featured as the roastee in Comedy Central’s annual roast special.

In December 2020, he co-hosted the KZN Entertainment Awards alongside Pearl Thusi.

Choreography

Mhlongo made his choreography debut in the musical film “Sarafina!” He showcased his choreography skills on a grand scale, participating in significant events such as the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He also choreographed various award shows such as Miss South Africa, the Metro FM Music Awards, the South African Music Awards, and the Channel O Music Video Awards. Additionally, he was a dancer and choreographer for the gospel choir Joyous Celebration.

In 2017, Mhlongo released a dance workout DVD titled “Grind! With Somizi,” which was available through Verimark. This workout routine incorporated various South African dance elements. He also created several workout videos on YouTube under the name “Kwaitone Dance Fitness with Somizi.”

Radio

Beginning on April 3, 2017, Mhlongo served as one of the co-hosts for the Metro FM breakfast show called “The Fresh Breakfast Show,” alongside DJ Fresh as the lead host and soccer presenter Mpho Letsholonyane. However, on March 30, 2019, it was revealed that he would be substituted by Relebogile Mabotja as part of a station reshuffle. Subsequently, Mhlongo was reassigned to co-host “#TheBridge,” which was the show that followed the original timeslot of “The Fresh Breakfast Show.”

In 2017, Mhlongo was appointed as the ambassador for the satellite service DStv due to his prominence on Idols South Africa, which is broadcast on two of their channels – M-Net and Mzansi Magic. Later that year, he also entered into an endorsement partnership with the Department of Water and Sanitation. Additionally, he became the face of McCafé Coach Sessions, endorsing McDonald’s South Africa.

Writing

Mhlongo published his autobiographical book, “Dominoes, Unbreakable Spirit,” on June 29, 2017. He collaborated with journalist and author Lesley Mofokeng to co-write the book, which delves into his experiences in the entertainment industry, childhood, family dynamics, exploration of his sexuality, and the significance of friendship in his life.

Music

In the 2000s, Mhlongo experimented with a combination of Kwaito and gospel elements in his song releases, but these attempts were met with both critical and commercial disappointment.

However, in 2017, he made a shift towards a more house-focused and gqom-influenced style with the release of his track “Ngibonile,” featuring DJ and record producer Heavy K.

Then, in 2021, Mhlongo was featured as an artist in Vusi Nova’s song “Ntandane,” which was part of Nova’s Gospel-influenced album, “Ngumama.”