Somizi Buyani Mhlongo, born 23 December 1972 in Soweto, Gauteng, is one of South Africa’s most recognizable media personalities. At 53 years old, he has built a remarkable career spanning over four decades as an actor, choreographer, television presenter, singer, and businessman. Known affectionately as Somgaga, he rose to prominence through his role in the iconic musical film Sarafina! in 1992 and has since become a household name across Africa.

His journey from a child actor in Soweto to a multi-faceted entertainer and fashion designer exemplifies determination and versatility. Mhlongo continues to evolve, recently graduating from the Villioti Fashion Institute in 2025 to become a qualified fashion designer, proving that reinvention is at the core of his enduring success.

Personal Information

Full name: Somizi Buyani Mhlongo

Other name: Somgaga

Date of birth: 23 December 1972

Age: 53 years old (as of 2026)

Place of birth: Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa

Nationality: South African

Occupation: Media personality, actor, choreographer, singer, television presenter, businessman, socialite

Years active: 1978 to present

Known for: Idols South Africa (judge), Sarafina!

Political party: African National Congress

Parents: Ndaba Mhlongo (father), Mary Twala (mother)

Children: 1 daughter (Bahumi Madisakwane, born 19 February 1995)

Partner: Mohale Motaung (married 2019 to 2021)

Early Life and Family Background

Somizi Buyani Mhlongo was born on 23 December 1972 in Soweto, the largest township in Johannesburg, to two entertainment industry icons. His mother, Mary Twala, was a celebrated South African actress, and his father, Ndaba Mhlongo, was a respected actor and comedian. Through the influence of his parents, he became exposed to the entertainment industry at a very young age, with show business essentially running in his blood.

Growing up in a creative household shaped his artistic sensibilities and gave him early access to the world of performance. He had one sibling, a brother named Archie, who was tragically fatally stabbed in 1985, a loss that profoundly affected the family. Despite this tragedy, Somizi persevered and channeled his energy into building a career in entertainment.

Acting Career

Mhlongo’s acting career began when he was just 13 years old, appearing in the film Scavengers in 1987. His breakthrough came in 1992 when he joined the musical and political film Sarafina!, in which he played a character named Fire, nicknamed “Whacko.” This role gained him national prominence and opened doors to international opportunities. He also took part in the choreography of the film, showcasing his dual talents as both performer and choreographer.

He went on to appear in several notable productions, including the drama film Cry, the Beloved Country in 1995, where he played a young thief. He also appeared in Kein Himmel über Afrika (1993) and was featured on the television series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures in 1996. His television credits include City Ses’la, Ayeye, and 10 Over 10, demonstrating his versatility across different genres and formats.

Television and Presenting Career

One of Mhlongo’s most significant television roles has been as a judge on Idols South Africa, a position he has held since the eleventh season. His charismatic personality, catchphrases, and honest critiques have made him a fan favorite. He also served as a lead judge on the SABC 1 competition show Dance Your Butt Off alongside actress and dancer Khabonina Qubeka.

In 2016, Mhlongo premiered his own reality show, Living the Dream with Somizi, which aired on Mzansi Magic. The show offered viewers an intimate look into his personal and professional life, further cementing his status as a beloved media personality. He has hosted numerous award shows, notably the South African Music Awards, where he co-hosted for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.

On 26 April 2018, Mhlongo was the featured roastee in Comedy Central’s annual roast special, showcasing his ability to laugh at himself while entertaining audiences. He co-hosted the KZN Entertainment Awards on 15 December 2020 with Pearl Thusi. In 2023, he joined the judging panel of The Masked Singer South Africa.

Choreography Career

Mhlongo’s choreography debut was on the musical film Sarafina!, and he went on to become one of South Africa’s most sought-after choreographers. His most prestigious assignments included choreographing the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a landmark event for South Africa, and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

He has choreographed numerous award shows and events, including Miss South Africa, the Metro FM Music Awards, the South African Music Awards, and the Channel O Music Video Awards. He also danced and served as a choreographer for the gospel choir Joyous Celebration. In 2017, he released the dance workout DVD Grind! With Somizi, which was available at Verimark and featured many elements of South African dance moves.

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Radio Career

Starting on 3 April 2017, Mhlongo expanded into radio as one of the co-hosts of the Metro FM breakfast show The Fresh Breakfast Show, alongside lead host DJ Fresh and soccer presenter Mpho Letsholonyane. On 30 March 2019, it was announced that he would be replaced by Relebogile Mabotja as the station reshuffled. He was then moved to co-host #TheBridge, the show that followed The Fresh Breakfast Show timeslot.

Music Career

Mhlongo incorporated Kwaito and gospel into his song releases in the 2000s, though these efforts critically and commercially failed. However, he made a comeback in 2017 with the house-focused and gqom-influenced revival song “Ngibonile,” featuring DJ and record producer Heavy K. In 2021, he was a featured artist on Vusi Nova’s song “Ntandane” from the Gospel-influenced album Ngumama.

Fashion and Business Ventures

In 2023, Mhlongo launched his fashion brand Sompire Kids, which quickly gained traction in South Africa. Determined to take his fashion career seriously rather than just capitalizing on his celebrity status, he enrolled at the prestigious Villioti Fashion Institute in 2024 to become a qualified fashion designer. In October 2025, he graduated from the institute, aiming to revolutionize the fashion industry.

In an interview about his decision to study fashion, Mhlongo reflected: “In everything I have done I’ve been self-taught. Cooking, presenting, singing, dancing, acting, producing, directing. Everything has been self-taught. I was fortunate to have the wisdom to know when to learn something for a change and not assume everything is going to be self-taught. Fashion was that thing.”

He has made significant strides in the fashion world, making a splash at New York Fashion Week and unveiling his first stunning dress design. He draws inspiration from renowned fashion designers such as Pharell Williams and plans to showcase his first runway fashion show in September. His ambitions extend beyond children’s wear, with plans to enter high-end fashion spaces.

Writing and Other Ventures

On 29 June 2017, Mhlongo released his autobiographical book, Dominoes, Unbreakable Spirit. He co-wrote the book along with journalist and author Lesley Mofokeng. The book shares his life in showbiz, childhood experiences, insights into the entertainment business, his parents’ influence, his sexuality, and friendships.

In terms of endorsements, Mhlongo was named an ambassador for DStv in 2017, leveraging his notability on Idols South Africa. He also endorsed the Department of Water and Sanitation later that year and became the face of McDonald’s South Africa’s McCafé Coach Sessions.

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Personal Life

Mhlongo dated actress Palesa Madisakwane, and they welcomed their daughter, Bahumi Madisakwane, on 19 February 1995. His relationship with Madisakwane led him to come out as bisexual. However, the relationship ended, and Mhlongo later described himself as gay.

In recent years, Mhlongo has been open about his evolving views on love and relationships. He described himself as 80% to 90% polygamous and pansexual, embracing a more fluid and honest approach to relationships. He explained: “I’m just mingling to mingle. I’m just having fun. There’s no love. I am in relationships. With age, you realise certain things, you discover yourself. I’ve realised I am possibly 80%-90% polygamous and I am pansexual. So I’m exploring.”

He has been clear about preferring honest relationships over open ones, explaining: “An honest relationship will be sometimes I wake not feeling the same way I felt yesterday about you and I must be open and honest with it.” Despite his views on relationships, Mhlongo has stated that marriage is still on the cards, though he admits he is more in love with the concept of a wedding than marriage itself.

Relationship with Mohale Motaung

Mhlongo dated South African model and entrepreneur Mohale Motaung, with rumors surfacing in 2017 and confirmation in 2018. He proposed to Motaung while on vacation in Paris, France. The two were married in a traditional wedding on 28 September 2019 and had a white wedding on 30 January 2020. They later separated in 2021. In March 2023, Mhlongo withdrew his divorce from Motaung because it was revealed that their marriage was not legal in the eyes of the law, despite having a public wedding.

Relationship with Daughter Bahumi

Mhlongo’s relationship with his daughter Bahumi has been a subject of public discussion. His ex-girlfriend Palesa Madisakwane has spoken about the challenges she faced as a single mother and alleged that Mhlongo was not initially present in their daughter’s life. However, their relationship reportedly improved in recent years, with Bahumi modeling for her father’s fashion brand and appearing alongside him at significant events.

Net Worth and Financial Success

Somizi Mhlongo’s net worth is estimated at approximately US$5 million. His diverse income streams include television appearances, hosting fees, choreography work, book sales, endorsement deals, and his fashion business. His ability to remain relevant across multiple entertainment sectors has contributed to his enduring financial success.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout his career, Mhlongo has received numerous accolades and recognition. He was nominated for Celebrity Personality of the Year at the National Film and Television Awards in 2024. His reality show, Living the Dream with Somizi, has been a ratings success, and his wedding special, Somizi & Mohale: The Union, broke viewing records on Showmax in 2020.

His 2017 workout DVD Grind! With Somizi reached platinum status, selling over 20,000 units. His book Dominoes, Unbreakable Spirit was well-received by fans and critics alike. His recent graduation from the Villioti Fashion Institute adds to his list of achievements, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Legacy and Impact

Somizi Mhlongo has left an indelible mark on South African entertainment. From his early days as a child actor in Sarafina! to his current status as a media mogul and fashion designer, he has consistently reinvented himself while remaining authentically himself. His openness about his sexuality and relationships has made him an important voice for LGBTQ+ acceptance in South Africa.

His influence extends across generations, and his ability to remain relevant for over 40 years in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent, resilience, and business acumen. As he continues to expand into fashion and other ventures, Mhlongo shows no signs of slowing down, cementing his legacy as one of South Africa’s most enduring and versatile entertainers.

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