Lara Lourens opens up about her role as Koekie Koekemoer in KykNET’s Banana Air.
LARA LOURENS ON ‘BANANA AIR’ CHARACTER

Actress Lara Lourens plays the role of Koekie Koekemoer in the kykNET comedy Banana Air, which airs on Monday nights. Koekie is the energetic flight attendant in business class and a belly dancer in her spare time.

 
“Koekie Koekemoer is a character so close to my heart. Look, she’s really not book smart, but you shouldn’t underestimate her. Despite all the drama among the staff at Banana Air, Koekie is actually just grateful to have a job and to be part of the team,” said Lara.

As per KykNET, Koekie is not someone who plans ahead or thinks things through. She is impulsive and lives in the moment – resulting in unexpected romances and sticky situations.

According to Lara, developing her character was a process.

“Koekie is pretty far removed from who I am as a person. You always start with the script – the entire text for each episode – and by familiarising yourself with the dynamics of the characters and the storyworld, you can see how your character fits into it. Character analysis is just as important as text analysis. So, I had to make sure I understood Koekie’s thought process because it’s not necessarily how I would think or reason as Lara.”

Even though Koekie and Lara are vastly different, sometimes she wishes she could be as spontaneous and impulsive as Koekie. “I often overthink things, and I’m always analysing,” she added.

“I can’t speak for others, but I like Koekie because she doesn’t take herself too seriously and sometimes creates big drama without even realising she’s in the middle of it all. I really enjoyed playing the role. Koekie is a case of ‘what you see is what you get’. She is who she is, and she’s perfectly fine with that.”
LARA ON STARRING ACROSS HER BOYFRIEND

The actress stars across her boyfriend, Kaz McFadden, who plays the role of Brand.

“It was nice to act opposite my boyfriend, Kaz. We had so many moments on set that still make me giggle,” she said.

“During one scene, I had to jump off a chair and walk across a wooden deck with Danielle Retief (Barbie), but somewhere in the process, my heel shot off my foot and landed in the rafters. The camera was rolling, and I didn’t want to break character or laugh. So, Koekie resolutely bore down on Hester (Liane Heyl), limping in one shoe,” she continued.

Buyele’khaya focuses on helping homeless people return to their homes. This inspiring return proves second chances are real and no struggle is too big to overcome.

Moja Love publicist Nonzwi Cekete confirmed the return of Masuku and said the show will start on January 18 at 9pm.

 

 

 

 
“We are a channel that believes people deserve a second chance so we approached him. Viewers can expect to see families reunited with their loved ones. The road is full of twists and turns but a happy ending of reuniting loved ones is what we aim for,” she said.
Former Yizo Yizo Star Innocent Masuku Returns to TV as Presenter on Moja Love TV’s ‘Buyele Khaya’
After battling personal challenges, including a fight with drug addiction, the Yizo Yizo star known for his role as ‘Bobo’ or ‘Bukstina’ has made a remarkable comeback!
Now, he’s stepping into a new role as a presenter on Moja Love’s new show, Buyele Khaya, which focuses on helping homeless people return to their homes.
This inspiring return proves that second chances are real and that no struggle is too great to overcome. Tune in to see his incredible journey of redemption and transformation.
Efforts to contact Masuku were unsuccessful as he was unavailable. In a remarkable comeback story, Innocent Masuku, renowned for his memorable role as ‘Bobo’ or ‘Bukstina’ in the iconic series Yizo Yizo, has returned to the small screen as a presenter on Moja Love’s new show, Buyele Khaya. This inspiring transition comes after Masuku faced significant personal challenges, including a battle with drug addiction, highlighting his resilience and determination to reclaim his life.

Buyele Khaya is a show dedicated to addressing the plight of homeless individuals, providing them with support and resources to return to their homes. Masuku’s involvement in this project is particularly poignant, as it not only reflects his personal journey of redemption but also his commitment to giving back to the community. His experience resonates deeply with the show’s mission, as he embodies the belief that transformation and second chances are attainable, no matter the circumstances.

Masuku’s path has not been easy. The pressures of fame and the struggles of addiction took a toll on his life, leading him to confront his demons. However, through perseverance and support, he has managed to turn his life around. His return to television serves as a powerful reminder that struggles can be overcome and that hope exists for everyone.

Viewers can expect to witness Masuku’s genuine passion for helping others as he navigates the stories of those affected by homelessness. His empathetic approach and lived experiences will surely make a significant impact on the show’s audience, fostering a sense of understanding and compassion for those in need.

The show’s format aims to connect with individuals and families facing homelessness, providing them with practical assistance and emotional support. With Masuku at the helm, the program is set to shine a light on the importance of community and the role we all play in uplifting one another. His journey of redemption will not only inspire the guests on the show but also encourage viewers to reflect on their own capacity for empathy and kindness.

In a world where the stigma around addiction and homelessness persists, Masuku’s story offers hope and encouragement. His presence on Buyele Khaya symbolizes a shift towards understanding and support, emphasizing that recovery is possible, and that we can all play a part in making a difference in the lives of others.

As audiences tune in to witness Innocent Masuku’s incredible journey of transformation, they will also be reminded of the power of resilience and the importance of second chances. Buyele Khaya promises to be more than just a television show; it’s a movement toward healing, understanding, and community support.

Masuku’s return to television is not just about reclaiming his former glory; it’s about using his platform to inspire change and foster hope in those who may be struggling. His role on Moja Love’s Buyele Khaya is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the belief that we can all overcome our challenges with the right support and determination. Tune in to witness this heartfelt journey unfold!

Miss SA Mia le Roux showcased some of the outfits she will wear while in Mexico for the 73rd Miss Universe pageant during her farewell at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton on Thursday 24 October.
MIA LE ROUX ON COMPETING AT MISS UNIVERSE

Beauty queen Mia le Roux made history this year as the first-ever differently-abled person to be crowned Miss SA in August. Mia is now representing South Africa at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City, Mexico, on Saturday 16 November.

She expressed that she is working on elevating herself.

“The Miss South African Organisation team and I have been working on every aspect so I can be an elevated version of myself. I feel incredibly proud and honoured by this opportunity and privilege that has been entrusted to me. I cannot wait to highlight the beautiful diversity of our country and show that it is our biggest strength,” she said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Mia went on to say she is trying not to feel too much pressure as she walks in the footsteps of previous Miss South Africa title holders.

“I try to view this as the opportunity and experience of a lifetime where my voice can be heard and I can hopefully help to shine a light upon the blind spots of our world while carrying my beautiful country within my heart,” she said.

“I believe my advantage is that I have a powerful story that needs to be heard. Someone once said that I did well with Miss South Africa because of the struggle I represent. But I say I did well because of the victory I represent and I believe that is my advantage,” she continued.
MISS SA ON GROWING UP DIFFERERNTLY-ABLED

“My parents were unsure if I would ever speak and now I am using the very same voice to be heard like I have never been heard before. I am speaking for every excluded individual out there with the goal to bring a future of hope and opportunity to them. I am going to do my best to make them, and all South Africans, proud.”

She will also continue to shine the spotlight on her Miss South Africa advocacy campaign Mia Le Roux’s Movement, where she will be working with government, big corporations and NGOs to raise money for cochlear implants and continue promoting inclusivity among a number of projects.
MIA LE ROUX SHOWCASES SPECIAL OUTFITS

The beauty queen showed off some of the special outfits created for her to wear during her time in Mexico by Africa Fashion International (AFI), which is the official fashion sponsor for Miss South Africa 2024. AFI has been a catalyst for progress in African fashion since it was founded in 2007 by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe.

The two outfits shown at the event – both by the AFI Atelier designers – will be worn by Le Roux in the days leading to the finale.

Gareth Cliff‘s recent comments on Rachel and Siya Kolisi‘s divorce were met with widespread criticism.

Speaking to author Sunil Osman on his podcast The Gareth Cliff Show, the former 5FM radio presenter brought Rachel’s race into the conversation.

“I am heartbroken for Siya and Rachel Kolisi, weeahhh,” he said.

Cliff then asked Osman if he was upset about the couple’s divorce.

 
“I am more upset, I’m going to get into trouble for this but I’m more upset for the coloured community.”
Gareth Cliff faces criticism over his comments on Rachel and Siya Kolisi

Cliff claimed he only learnt recently that Rachel Kolisi was white.

“It took me a long time to even realise that because I don’t pay attention to sports, I don’t watch a lot of of sport and I don’t read like, ‘YOU’ magazine, so I didnt even know, I thought Rachel was black for a long time until I saw a picture of her.”
“I feel kind of sorry for Rachel and Siya just because they are in the public eye and now everybody is going to want(what happened),” he said.

Osman joked that Siya and Rachel would still be together if their marriage was arranged.

Gareth Cliff responded: “Maybe hey, that’s what we have learnt, go get your marriage arranged and then it will last.”

@lee09_26 wrote: “It has nothing to do with black and white here. I don’t even know why that needed to be included.

@carlyviolinist wrote: “Sorry but you really have to be living under some rock to miss the culture of Siya’s wife, nevermind being a South African public figure.”

Social media users are bringing receipts about why they believe Siya Kolisi and his wife Rachel have gone their separate ways. And according to many, the tell-tale signs were mentioned in the Springbok captain’s 2023 documentary called Rise.

The doccie – released ahead of the World Cup – was based on Siya’s autobiography of the same name.
SIYA KOLISI DOCCIE: CONFESSIONS OF CHEATING, ABUSE

According to one TikToker – @okuhle.is.here – possible causes for Siya Kolisi’s marriage demise were mentioned in his documentary, Rise.

 

 

 

The production – which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival – reflected on the life of South Africa’s first black Springboks captain. It also touched on his tough and poverty-stricken upbringing and broken family life. This included witnessing his mother’s abuse at the hands of her romantic partners, navigating her untimely death, his estrangement from father, as well as finding his half-siblings, who had been placed in foster care.

The doccie also touched on Siya in his role outside of rugby – as a father to his two kids and husband to his wife Rachel.

The TikToker revealed that Siya had made many confessions about cheating in past relationships and how he navigated fame and female fans as a married man.
siya kolisi, rachel kolisi, DMs
Siya Kolisi admitted to pursuing Rachel while he was dating another woman. Images via Instagram: @rachelkolisi

The rugby hero also spoke about the side nobody knew – his heavy drinking, frequenting strip clubs, and reckless spending. The issues were also mentioned in his autobiography.

Okuhle said: “[The documentary is about the] love story between Rachel and Siya. And the things Rachel has had to go through…the cheating, the abuse. All of these things were addressed in the documentary.

“But people were too busy focusing on the rugby story and him being a star, so they brushed over all of the things Rachel was talking about having to go through in order to make this marriage work.”

The TikToker explained that Siya’s childhood likely led him to exhibit “toxic and abusive behaviours.”

She added, “Even he acknowledges that he put her through a lot. We are not surprised that they are getting a divorce.”

@okuhle.is.here Reflections. #fyp #rachel #siya #kolisi #marriage #divorce #relationships #reflections #lessons ♬ I Wanna Know Jesus – Josué Novais Piano Worship

‘FOOLING AROUND WITH WOMEN’

In his autobiography, also titled Rise and released shortly before his documentary, Siya Kolisi also discussed his marriage to Rachel and his role in their struggles.

Some of it came even before their 2016 marriage. In 2015, just months after Rachel had given birth to their first child, Nicholas, Siya flew to England to play in the World Cup.

He was not a regular fixture in the squad and claimed he used his time off to drink himself into oblivion.

He wrote in the book: “Rachel [my wife] had come out with baby Nick, and this would have been the perfect opportunity to spend some time with them; but no, I preferred to be out with the boys.
Siya
Excerpts of Siya Kolisi’s book have resurfaced. Image Instagram @siyakolisi/ X @mercyca2

“It was an awful time for her, and I was too selfish to realise. In the end, Rachel got fed up with me being a jerk and flew home a week early.”

“Rachel had had enough. If it had been an isolated incident, that would have been one thing, but it wasn’t.”

Siya also alluded to cheating on Rachel when his Christian mentor Ben Schoeman told him: “Siya, you drink a lot, you fool around with women, you go to strip clubs. You post on social media about your faith in Christ, but you’re lying to yourself and everyone else.”
WHERE TO WATCH ‘RISE: THE SIYA KOLISI STORY’?

Rise: The Siya Kolisi Story was initially released on M-Net and Showmax last year.

However, Showmax’s spokesperson Kevin Kriedmann confirmed to The South African that their licence to air the production has since expired.

He added that the streaming platform is “trying to get it back, but there is no confirmed timeline yet.”

On Tuesday, 22 October, South Africa’s favourite couple, Siya and Rachel Kolisi, dropped a bombshell when they announced they had separated and were awaiting a divorce.
SPRINGBOK CAPTAIN SIYA KOLISI AND WIFE RACHEL ANNOUNCE DIVORCE

The two announced the news through a joint statement on their Instagram handles.

News of their divorce has since undoubtedly grabbed headlines across the globe, with many trying to understand the reasons behind their fallout.

 

 

 

 

 

 
Despite the news, Rachel Kolisi has since changed her Instagram bio, leaving many convinced that the two are heading for divorce. She has since removed ‘wife’ from her bio.

Rachel and Siya Kolisi’s love story began in 2012. Years later, the two tied the knot and were blessed with two children, Nicholas and Keziah.

However, the two adopted Siya Kolisi’s orphaned siblings, Liyema and Liphelo.News of their divorce has since undoubtedly implicated their fortune into the mix.

With an illustrious career spanning years, Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has earned a fortune from his big-money contracts to endorsement deals.

He is said to be one of the top-earning rugby players in South Africa and the world at large.

On the other hand, Rachel Kolisi has made a fortune from her gigs and businesses, which are reportedly under her watch.

Surprisingly, despite being one of the most followed and celebrated couples, Siya Kolisi and his wife Rachel have managed to keep their private lives under wraps, leaving many to guess.

RUMOURED MANSIONS

Against the trends The South African has connected the dots about some of their rumoured assets that often thrust them into top trends.

To cap their glitz and glamour lives, the Kolisis have splurged thousands, if not millions, on some of the world’s finest cars and properties.

Reports allege that the two own two mansions in South Africa, one in Cape Town and the other in KwaZulu-Natal.

Orlando Pirates have had a defensive star in Thabiso Sesane since last season. The 24-year-old did not have an easy rise.
TWO LOAN SPELLS

After shining in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) reserve league before, Sesane was promoted to the first team in 2020/21. He was soon loaned out from Orlando Pirates to Jomo Cosmos and later All Stars in the lower divisions.

 
“[2021/22] Pre-season in North West, I think I got injured, so when we got to Johannesburg, I got a call from the office. They told me, ‘We’re loaning you out because we don’t think your space is available this season,” Sesane told PiratesTV on BucsCamp.

“I was shocked, I said, ‘Its fine’, then they said, ‘Its Jomo Cosmos’. It was tough though [at Cosmos], I won’t lie, I was always crying. I was calling my mother and telling her I was thinking of leaving this whole thing [playing football].

“To be honest, when I left Jomo Cosmos [at the end of the season], I felt I had already given up. I felt like a loan player, I think I played 15 games at Cosmos,” Sesane added.
ORLANDO PIRATES INJURY NEWS

Orlando Pirates are in action this weekend against Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout. The game will kick off at 15:00 from the Orlando Stadium.

According to the club’s latest post, the Sea Robbers will be without the likes of Olisa Ndah, Tapelo Xoki, Zakhele Lepasa and Bandile Shandu.

Full Statement by the club:

“Orlando Pirates will play host to newly promoted club Magesi FC at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday in their Carling Black Label Cup opener. Unfortunately, the Buccaneers will be without key defender Olisa Ndah, who faces an extended period on the sidelines.

“The Nigerian international who missed out on playing the MTN8 final after suffering an injury in the league match against Polokwane City, is expected to be out on the sidelines for a lengthy spell. The Bucs medical department has confirmed that the 26-year-old has suffered a tibia fracture. Due to the location and nature of the injury; the decision on surgery is not straightforward but based on this type of injury, Ndah has been ruled out for the rest of the year.

In addition to Ndah’s injury, the medical department provided updates on other players in recovery:

Thalente Mbatha

“Continues to undergo rehabilitation regarding the injury he suffered in Pirates 3-1 win over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8. The Bucs medical team will continue to monitor his progress this week before clearing him to return to full training.

Bandile Shandu

“Has started full training with the team. He has also begun playing 35 minutes for friendly matches. This load will increase every week until he reaches 90 minutes without feeling any discomfort.

Tapelo Xoki

“Has been cleared to return to full training , with focus on agility drills before being allowed to participate in friendly matches.

Goodman Mosele

“Is currently undergoing intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started jogging and the team has slowly introduced heavy loaded weight training.

Zakhele Lepasa

“Like Mosele, Lepasa is also currently undergoing intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started running on the field and strength training.

Thabiso Lebitso

“Has started running as part of his progression. Scheduled to start plyometric training as of next week.
Continues with external biokinetic training to improve strength in hamstring and quadriceps.

Sandile Mthethwa

“Sustained an abdominal muscle strain during training. He is attending rehabilitation sessions with a visceral therapist that deals with this type of injuries.

Sports fantic Mama Joy stirred up controversy with her online comments regarding the divorce of Siya and Rachel Kolisi.
MAMA JOY WEIGHS IN ON THE KOLISI’S DIVORCE

Rachel and Siya sparked a frenzy on Tuesday afternoon after announcing their separation in a joint statement. The news surprised many people, including Mama Joy, whose real name is Joy Chauke.

She reacted to their separation announcement on X- but her reaction was not well received. This comes after saying that she didn’t notice any sign of Siya and Rachel’s separation.

 
“You invited me when you launched your ⁦⁦@KolisiFdn in Paris. The video you played about your lives, guys, I didn’t see any sign of divorce; RWC final, you came and fetched your family and celebrated with them inside the pitch. ⁦@SiyaKolisi, I am shocked,” Mama Joy wrote.
MAMA JOY GETS DRAGGED FOR HER TWEET

X users have dragged the sports enthusiast for her intrusive comments and failure to respect the couple’s privacy as they navigate their separation.

@African_Spring: wrote “The divorce doesn’t have to be about you though”

@_Thembalihle_: wrote “This was unnecessary, you even tagged them”

@vbthoughts_001: wrote “What kind of tweet is this?! I would have expected a more matured, sound, positive message…instead, you seem to want to solicit gossip,, Am disappointed”

@GetrudeM: wrote “This is unnecessary. Why not send them texts?”

In a surprising move, e.tv has announced the cancellation of *Isiphetho: Destiny*, just nine months after it premiered. The drama series, which captured the attention of viewers with its gripping storyline and a stellar cast, will not return for a second season.

The cast of *Isiphetho: Destiny* featured some of South Africa’s most talented actors, including Gugu Gumede, Linda Sokhulu, Mjosti Mbhele, and Mbalenhle Mavimbela. Despite this star power, the show has been unable to secure a future on the small screen.

 

 
The Final Episode

e.tv confirmed that the current season will continue to air until its scheduled end on 4 April 2025. While the show will come to a close, the channel expressed its appreciation for the work done by the cast and production team. Vuyelwa Booi, Manager of Local Programming at e.tv, shared the channel’s gratitude for the effort poured into the series.

“The channel would like to express its sincere thanks to Black Brain Pictures for their dedication to bringing this story of community, friendship, and second chances to life,” Booi said in a statement. “The captivating tale of four friends in Mzimhlope resonated with viewers, sparking conversations and keeping them glued to their screens.”

Despite this praise, the show’s journey will not continue beyond the first season. The decision to cancel *Isiphetho: Destiny* is a disappointment for fans, many of whom were captivated by the rich storylines and dynamic characters.

### No New Seasons

Mpumelelo Nhlapo, Executive Producer at Black Brain Pictures, also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to create the show. “It has been a privilege to bring *Isiphetho: Destiny* to life,” Nhlapo said. “We would also like to thank the entire production team for their hard work and dedication in making this project possible.”

Although the show will not continue, the creators and the network are both proud of what they accomplished during its short run. The show offered a look into the complex lives of four friends in the township of Mzimhlope, exploring themes of friendship, community, and redemption.

### What’s Next?

As *Isiphetho: Destiny* prepares to air its final episodes, viewers are left wondering what will fill its time slot. e.tv has yet to announce what show will replace *Isiphetho: Destiny* but the channel is known for introducing new and engaging local content.

For now, fans can look forward to enjoying the rest of the season, while appreciating the unique story that *Isiphetho: Destiny* brought to South African television.

Stay tuned for more updates on the new show that will be taking over, and don’t miss the remaining episodes of *Isiphetho: Destiny* as the beloved series reaches its conclusion.

Music producer and reality TV star Bongani Fassie reportedly spent over R400,000 in two months after receiving royalties from her mother’s catalogue.

 
According to reports, the star lives like a rock star despite being kicked out of his apartment after failing to pay rent. His two children are also not attending school, according to reports.
BONGANI FASSIE SPENDS R400 000 IN TWO MONTHS

Speaking to ZiMoja, a close source to the star said, “The kids have been sitting at home and not going to school since then, and he doesn’t seem to care.

“He keeps saying he is Brenda Fassie’s son when we try to talk to him about taking his life seriously, especially for the sake of his children.”

Last year, Bongani Fassie took his kids, Brenda and Bongani, from his on-and-off partner Buhle, who has also been with former Springboks ‘bad boy’ Sbu Nkosi.

No doubt, the damning rumours have since thrust Bongani Fassie into the top trends.

Rumour has it that Bongani Fassie was locked out of his Fourways apartment after failing to pay the R17 500 rent. This seemingly forced him to squat with his kids at his friend’s place.

However, celebrated producer and music executive Chicco Twala came to his rescue, but Bongani Fassie is seemingly blowing the cash he has received from his late mother’s producer.

Confirmed reports have it that he first received R80 000 cash but failed to pay rent and settle his debts.

An additional R100 000 was organised from one of the royalty distribution companies to assist Bongani Fassie. At the time, he had also received R200 000 in royalty payments.

“In short, he received over R400 000, but he doesn’t have money to pay school fees or consistently pay rent. He blew it all. He blew that money on alcohol and hosting parties.

“Bongani is 40 years old but doesn’t want to grow up. He is living like a rock star, and it’s affecting his children,” revealed the source to ZiMoja.
MAKING HEADLINES

After all, Bongani Fassie is not new to drama. Last year, he made headlines when he appeared on I Blew It. He revealed how he splurged more than R4 million on drugs while living in a R70 000 per-month apartment.

Over the years, Bongani Fassie has made it known that he intends to have complete control of his mother’s estate.

In recent years, Brenda Fassie’s estate has made headlines for the wrong reasons. It was reported that 25 million allegedly went missing from the estate without accountability.