Entertainment News
Entertainment News From South Africa
South Africa's entertainment landscape is vibrant, with notable developments across music, film, television, and cultural events.
Music
Tyla's Meteoric Rise: Twenty-three-year-old South African artist T
...South Africa's entertainment landscape is vibrant, with notable developments across music, film, television, and cultural events.
Music
Tyla's Meteoric Rise: Twenty-three-year-old South African artist Tyla has captivated global audiences with her unique fusion of pop, R&B, Afrobeats, and amapiano. Her 2023 hit "Water" amassed over 10 billion views on TikTok, propelling her to international fame. Despite challenges, including safety concerns and misconceptions about her identity, Tyla remains committed to representing South African culture. She aspires to expand her influence into acting, beauty, directing, and fashion.
30th Annual South African Music Awards (SAMA30): Held on November 2, 2024, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, the SAMA30 celebrated outstanding musical talents. Tyla emerged as the most awarded artist, securing four accolades. The event also honored Sipho Makhabane and Ringo Madlingozi with Lifetime Achievement Awards, while Oskido received the Chairperson's Award.
Film and Television
"Granny Lee" Biopic: Production is set to begin in April 2025 for a biopic titled "Granny Lee," chronicling the life of Johannesburg's 1980s disco icon and transgender trailblazer. South African actress Soli Philander will portray Granny Lee, with Alexandra Billings serving as executive producer. The film aims to highlight Granny Lee's influential role during the Apartheid era and the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
"Drag Race South Africa" Announcement: The globally renowned "Drag Race" franchise is expanding to South Africa. Officially announced on October 20, 2024, "Drag Race South Africa" is slated to air on WOW Presents Plus, marking the franchise's first foray into the African continent. Casting for the inaugural season is scheduled to commence in 2025.
Showmax's New Original Series: Streaming platform Showmax has unveiled several South African original series, including "Youngins," a young adult drama set in a boarding school, and "Wyfie," an Afrikaans drama focusing on four university roommates. Both series premiered on February 12, 2024, showcasing local storytelling and talent.
Cultural Events
Earthshot Prize Awards in Cape Town: On November 6, 2024, Cape Town hosted the prestigious Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, initiated by Prince William to recognize innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The event featured appearances by celebrities such as Nina Dobrev and Heidi Klum, with performances by artists including Davido and Diamond Platnumz. South African TV presenter Bonang Matheba co-hosted the ceremony, marking the first time the event was held on African soil.
"I'm A Celebrity...South Africa" Returns: The spin-off series "I'm A Celebrity...South Africa" is set to return later in 2025, following the success of its inaugural season. The show features former contestants from the original series competing in challenges within South Africa's Kruger National Park. The upcoming season promises to bring more excitement as celebrities face the rugged wilderness.
South Africa's entertainment industry continues to flourish, with its artists and cultural events gaining international acclaim and contributing significantly to the global arts scene.
Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry Thrives: Music, Film, Fashion, and Cultural Heritage in the Spotlight
As of February 27, 2025, the Nigerian entertainment industry continues to thrive, showcasing remarkable achievements across music, film, fashion, and cultural heritage.
Music
Mobo Awards 2025: The recen
...As of February 27, 2025, the Nigerian entertainment industry continues to thrive, showcasing remarkable achievements across music, film, fashion, and cultural heritage.
Music
Mobo Awards 2025: The recent Mobo Awards celebrated outstanding contributions to music of Black origin. British-Nigerian artist Darkoo secured accolades for Best Female Act and Song of the Year with "Favourite Girl." Nigerian singer Ayra Starr was honored as both Best African Music Act and Best International Act, underscoring her global influence.
Qing Madi's Debut Album: Eighteen-year-old Nigerian singer-songwriter Qing Madi released her debut album, "I Am the Blueprint." The 13-track collection reflects her personal growth and aims to resonate with Nigerian and African female audiences, making them feel heard and understood.
Asake's "Lungu Boy" Album: Nigerian artist Asake unveiled his third album, "Lungu Boy," blending Afropiano, hip-hop, and neo-fújì genres. The album narrates his journey from humble beginnings to global fame, featuring collaborations with artists like Stormzy and Travis Scott.
Film
"Tokunbo" on Netflix: The Nollywood thriller "Tokunbo" has garnered attention on Netflix. The film follows the protagonist, Tokunbo, a skilled driver entangled in a web of crime and political intrigue. Despite a complex plot, the movie's visual style and compelling performances have been praised.
Fashion
Lisa Folawiyo's Influence: Renowned Nigerian fashion designer Lisa Folawiyo continues to make significant strides in the fashion industry. Known for blending contemporary tailoring with traditional West African prints, her label, Jewel By Lisa, has gained international acclaim, with celebrities like Lupita Nyong'o and Issa Rae donning her designs.
Cultural Heritage
Revival of the Lijadu Sisters' Music: The music of the Lijadu Sisters, prominent in the 1970s and 80s, is experiencing a resurgence among a new generation of listeners. Their unique blend of juju, jazz, disco, funk, and Afrobeat, coupled with themes of social justice and women's rights, continues to inspire and resonate today.
The Nigerian entertainment scene remains vibrant and dynamic, with artists and creators making impactful contributions both locally and globally.