Author name: Kgomotso Seboko

Dave Chappelle named President’s Award Recipient for the “56th NAACP Image Awards” BET Media Group, NAACP, JSSK, and WME Launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund to Support the Recovery of Historically Black Neighborhoods Impacted by the Eaton Fire The 56th NAACP Image Awards to Air Live on Sunday, February 23, 2025 — Pre-show at 19:00 CAT, Main Awards at 20:00 CAT on BET Africa (DStv Channel 129)   Click here for Dave Chappelle headshot Johannesburg 19 February 2025: The NAACP announced that comedy legend and cultural icon Dave Chappelle will receive the prestigious President’s Award during the “56th NAACP Image Awards” airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium onSunday, February 23, 2025. The Pre-show airs at at 19:00 CAT, followed by the Main Awards at 20:00 CAT on BET Africa (DStv Channel 129). The President’s Award is presented in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service. Previous recipients include Usher, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Dwyane Wade, Rihanna, LeBron James, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee, Muhammad Ali, JesseJackson, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, and Ms. Lauryn Hill. “The President’s Award honors an unwavering dedication to community, and throughout his distinguished career,Dave Chappelle has consistently been recognized as a powerful voice of social consciousness,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “Through his unique ability to transform complex political issues into thought-provoking humor, Dave has solidified his place as one of the most impactful voices of our time. His work sparks conversations that compel people to examine their own beliefs, proving that in an age where open dialogue is increasingly rare, comedy can be both a powerful teller and a driver of progress.” Dave Chappelle is recognized as one of the greatest comedians of all time. He is the 2019recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Chappelle’s work has earned him more than 30 nominations and awards in television and film for projects that include his groundbreaking sketch comedy television series Chappelle’s Show, comedy specials, and guest appearances on Saturday Night Live. Chappelle has received five Emmy awards, including three for his Netflix comedy specials Sticks & Stones (2020) and Equanimity & The Bird Revelation (2018),and two for hosting Saturday Night Live (2017 and 2021). Chappelle has won six GRAMMY® Awards for BestComedy Album, winning most recently in 2025 with The Dreamer. BET and the NAACP remain committed to celebrating Black excellence and resilience through the “56th NAACP Image Awards.” This support extends to the Altadena, Pacific Palisades, andPasadena communities affected by the recent wildfires. As part of these efforts, BET Media Group, NAACP, JSK and WME have partnered with LA County and in collaboration with local community organizations such as Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA, to launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aimed at protecting homeowners from displacement and preserving the community’s cultural heritage. Ayo Edebiri leads the African nominees this year with five nominations, followed by other notable names including Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Tyla, TrevorNoah, Cynthia Erivo, Lupita Nyong’o, Shaboozey, Uche Okonkwo, and Omotara James. By visiting www.naacpimageawards.net, the public can vote to determine the winners of the “56th NAACP Image Awards” in select categories. Winners will be revealed during the “56th NAACP Image Awards” telecast on Saturday, February 22, live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. NAACP will also recognize winners in non–televised Image Awards categories virtually onTuesday, February 18 and Wednesday, Feb 19 at youtube.com/naacpimageawardsand at the 56th NAACP Image AwardsCreative Honors Friday, February 21. For information and updates, followNAACP Image Awards on Instagram @NAACPImageAwards. Globally recognized as one of the most distinguished multicultural award shows, the “56th NAACP Image Awards”will continue a tradition of excellence, uplifting values that inspire quality, justice, and progressive change, and highlighting artists committed to that purpose. One of the most iconic annual celebrations of Black excellence, the NAACP ImageAwards draws the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood. Previous years’ attendees and winners include Tems, Davido, Lojay, Damson Idris, Ayo Edebiri, Aleema Omotoni, Ava DuVernay, Gabrielle Union, Dwayne Wade, Courtney B. Vance,Sherri Shepherd, Colman Domingo, Mike Epps, Keke Palmer, Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia, Danielle Brooks, Usher, Tyler Perry, Angela Bassett, Damson Idris, Michelle Buteau, Victoria Monét, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E.Carter, Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Nia Long, Keith David, Jennifer Hudson,Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown, Erica Campbell, Chris Brown, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Zendaya, Yara Shahidi, Issa Rae, Janelle Monáe, Tracee Ellis Ross, Serena Williams, Kerry Washington, Method Man, Dominique Thorne, Austin Scott, TylerJames Williams, Kyla Pratt, Jabari Banks, and many more. Instagram: @naacpimageawards |X: @naacpimageaward | Facebook: /naacpimageaward ENDS

 2025 JFF ESTEEMED JURORS ANNOUNCED PURCHASE YOUR FESTIVAL TICKETS  HERE   Johannesburg, South Africa – The much-anticipated Joburg Film Festival (JFF) is excited to announce that ticket sales for its 2025 edition went live this past Friday, 14th February. The festival in partnership with MultiChoice Group is set to showcase a dynamic array of films from around the globe, bringing together global talent and audiences for an unforgettable cinematic experience. The Joburg Film Festival, which has steadily grown to become one of Africa’s premier film events, promises an exciting line-up of screenings, masterclasses and engaging discussions. This year, JBX Talks will be a hub for industry conversations and collaboration, bringing together top professionals to discuss pressing topics, new ideas, and the latest trends. Under the theme “Made in Joburg for Africa and the World,” JBX Talks 2025 will drive thought leadership at JFF by exploring global financing, co-productions, the power of visual storytelling, and evolving industry landscapes, all while fostering creativity and strategy. It’s where local and international filmmakers connect, and every conversation sparks new possibilities. Spotlighted Talks and Headline Speakers include: Pathways for African Creatives in International Entertainment, featuring Jennifer Okafor-Iwuchukwu (Talent Manager, USA) Revolution on Screen: A Masterclass with Raoul Peck (Director, I Am Not Your Negro, Lumumba, Haiti) A Masterclass with Emmai Alaquiva (Director, The Ebony Canal, USA) Shaping Stories, Shaping Industry: Angus Gibson (Yizo, Yizo, Shaka iLembe, South Africa) on Building African Narratives and Legacy Going Local, Going Viral: The Key to Showmax’s Subscriber Boom (panel) Winning the Game: How Platforms Compete for Sports Audiences in Africa (panel) Innovation at the Edge: The Creative Convergence of AI and VFX in Film, TV and Animation (panel) Prioritising Well-Being and Workers Rights in the Film Industry (panel) Explore the full JBX programme and incredible lineup of participants on our website here JBX Talks – Joburg Film Festival Want the ultimate festival experience?  Festival Badges are now available – get your pass to exclusive screenings, the industry sessions and youth workshops. Gain insider access to premieres, behind-the-scenes discussions, and networking events where you can connect with filmmakers, producers, and film and tv experts. As the festival kicks off, the event’s organisers are also thrilled to introduce the distinguished jurors who will lend their expertise and insight in selecting the winning films. MEET THE 2025 FESTIVAL JURORS Sthandiwe Kgoroge is a celebrated South African actress and renowned for her powerful performances in both film and television. With a career spanning decades, Kgoroge’s work has earned her acclaim as a formidable figure in the African entertainment industry. She brings a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of storytelling to the juror panel. Muneera Salies is a respected South African filmmaker, known for several critically acclaimed works. She is committed to amplifying diverse voices in African cinema and ensuring that new narratives continue to emerge. Yolanda Ncokotwana is a rising star in the South African film and television industry. She is a director and screenwriter known for her innovative storytelling and ability to capture the cultural nuances of South Africa. Her work continues to break boundaries and inspire audiences, and she is eager to contribute her expertise to the festival. Ahmed Shawky is a Film Critic and Festival Programmer from Egypt. This highly reputable film industry commentator is also the President of both the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) and the Egyptian Film Critics Federation making him an excellent choice of this year’s panel of jurors. Dr. Victor Okhai is a respected Nigerian film scholar, producer and director. With his vast knowledge of both local and international cinema, Dr. Okhai will provide invaluable insight as a member of the festival’s juror panel. Melissa Parry is an internationally acclaimed, multi-award-winning editor with an extensive portfolio spanning feature films, documentaries, and wildlife series. She has served as a panelist and speaker at numerous prestigious film industry events worldwide. The festival’s jurors, a blend of influential figures from various corners of the global film industry, will evaluate films across multiple categories, including feature films, short films, documentaries, and experimental works. Their combined expertise ensures that the festival remains at the forefront of showcasing innovative and impactful cinema. Tickets for the 2025 Johannesburg Film Festival are now available for purchase online, offering access to screenings, special events, JBX Talks and exclusive masterclasses. Early booking is highly recommended due to expected high demand for some of the festival’s most anticipated films and events.       For further details on programming, the JBX market and ticket information, please visit www.joburgfilmfestival.co.za or follow us on social media for the latest updates. Be part of the moment. Be part of the conversation. Be part of JFF 2025. Check out Joburg Film Festival the various online platforms: Website            www.joburgfilmfestival.co.za Facebook         JoburgFilmFestival Twitter               JoburgFilmFest Instagram         joburg_film_festival LinkedIn            Joburg Film Fest TikTok                Joburg Film Fest The hashtags for the festival are #JoburgFilmFestival #JFF2025

Showmax, in partnership with Lion Forge Entertainment, has announced that the highly anticipated animated series Iyanu will premiere in Africa on 13 June 2025. The African streamer also released the official trailer, giving audiences a glimpse into the captivating story based on Nigerian culture and mythology. The entire first season will be available to binge across 44 African countries on Showmax. Adapted from Roye Okupe’s graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder – published by YouNeek Studios and Dark Horse Comics (the powerhouse behind The Umbrella Academy and Hellboy) – the show is helmed by Okupe himself, who was born and raised in Nigeria and now serves as creator, executive producer and showrunner. The series is produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, a leading Black-owned animation studio in North America. Drawing on Nigerian culture, music, and mythology, the animated series follows Iyanu, a brave young orphan living in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland. While studying history and ancient arts, she yearns for a normal life – until a looming threat awakens divine powers not seen since the legendary Age of Wonders. Accompanied by newfound friends Biyi, Toye, and a magical leopard named Ekun, Iyanu sets out to uncover the source of this evil, unlocking her destiny along the way. Dr Busola Tejumola, executive head of content and channels West Africa, said, “Iyanu brings Nigerian culture and mythology to life in an exciting and authentic way. We are proud to be the home of its African premiere and can’t wait for audiences across the continent to experience this epic adventure on Showmax.” Lion Forge Entertainment CEO and Founder David Steward II shared, “We’ve witnessed the dedication and heart that Roye Okupe and our entire team have poured into this series, and we’re all excited to see it premiere on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax soon. Iyanu represents a major leap forward in our commitment to telling culturally rich stories that resonate with audiences around the globe, and we’re confident audiences will share in our excitement.” The talented all-African Iyanu voice cast includes Serah Johnson as Iyanu; Okey Jude as Biyi, Iyanu’s carefree adventurer friend; Samuel Kugbiyi as Toye, Iyanu’s bookworm companion; Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Olori; Blossom Chukwujekwu as Kanfo, Toye’s father; Stella Damasus as Sewa; Shaffy Bello as Emi – The One Mother; and Ike Ononye as Elder Alapani. Showcasing Iyanu’s global reach, the series will first premiere in the US on Cartoon Network on 5 April 2025 at 9:30 AM ET/PT and stream on Max the next day. ITVX will also debut the series in the UK and Ireland this summer. The show’s executive producers are David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath from Lion Forge Entertainment, Roye Okupe of YouNeek Studios, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod. Watch the trailer below: https://youtu.be/wh9kENRgBtU END

Ash-ley Ogle Spills the Tea at Sunday’s Eviction Show – #BBMzansi   Johannesburg, 17 February 2025: Ash-ley Ogle is the last housemate to be evicted last Monday, shocking both her fellow housemates and viewers. Last night, she took to the stage with Smash Afrika for one final tell-all and let’s just say she didn’t hold back! Smash didn’t hold back, jumping straight into the boiling questions with Ash-ley Ogle about why she thought she had been evicted. Her take was the housemates were intimidated and saw her as a threat. She also made it clear that she is her own person. Smash Afrika cranked up the drama with tough questions that set Mzansi on fire. Philile was put on blast about a certain Mr S in the house she was thinking of kissing. But hold up! She quickly defended herself, saying it was just a thought and that Mr S is none other than the current HoH, Swiss! Another bombshell dropped when Jojo straight-up admitted that she’s all in for Sweet Guluva. Smash asked Sweet Guluva if he knew there were ladies interested in him, and he said, “No!” Smash then pointed to Jojo and Mshini, revealing they both have eyes on him, and Jojo didn’t hesitate to shout a big yes. Things took a wild turn when Smash asked Nsuku who she’d evict given the chance. Without missing a beat, Nsuku straight-up said Mandy Hagan. The tension in the house was palpable, but Mandy Hagan kept her cool, laughing it off Ash-ley Ogle has now joined Ezra, Luzuko, Sipha Lee, Bonni Bee, Gugu, Kay B, and Savage on the flipside. With 16 housemates left, the game is heating up each week. Who’s got what it takes to make it to the finish line? The whole of Mzansi is on edge. A new spice will be added to the curry mix this week. Biggie is introducing The Boiler Room, a high stakes space where housemates get a shot at dipping into the grand prize money. But with Big Brother, best believe that, there’s a catch! Starting today (Monday, 17 Feb), mystery envelopes will be popping up in the house. If a housemate finds one, they’ll unlock access to The Boiler Room, with the action kicking off on Wednesday at noon. Get more local content, live sports and international series for just R100 extra per month! Upsize from DStv Compact to Premium by paying an extra R100 when you pay your DStv subscription. Fak’ iKlipa uzobona! For more information click here. Big Brother Mzansi season 5 is broadcast live 24/7 on DStv channel 198, which you can stream here. Sunday eviction shows are at 18:00 on Mzansi Magic. To join the conversation on social media platforms, use the hashtag #BBMzansi and connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok. Big Brother Mzansi season 5 is proudly sponsored by headline partner LottoStar and tactical partner Robertsons Spices.  Ends.

Pics here: https://multichoice.bynder.com/share/4AD047DA-5077-47C6-B05078F0EDA89358/ For immediate release Showmax has just dropped Tiek Tok Boem!, a jaw-dropping 90-minute documentary that takes a deep dive into the wild, untamed world of Afrikaans TikTok. This eye-opening film explores the darker, often dangerous side of the platform, where creators push boundaries and take risks that might leave you questioning just how far they’ll go. Created by Rian van Heerden and Provoco (the team behind the SAFTA-winning Sex in Afrikaans), Tiek Tok Boem! gives viewers a front-row seat to the most controversial TikTok accounts. These include: • Christiaan Otto, Christiaan met 2 A’s, who has nearly 300k followers • Amelda Claassen, Queen Amelda, who has nearly 80k followers • Leigh Pascheka Husselman, Leigh Pascheka, who has 65k+ followers • Johnny van Rensburg, King Binlaken, who has 50k+ followers • Teresa van der Bergh, Terrible Tess, who has 35k+ followers Here are the five most eye-opening moments from the documentary: Terrible Tess’s big oops Terrible Tess has become one of the most outspoken and unapologetically bold Afrikaans TikTokkers on the platform. The 58-year-old skyrocketed to viral fame after a controversial TikTok Live where she casually visited the loo. In a bid to prove to viewers that she was indeed using the facilities, Tess turned her phone downward, the moment sparked a social media frenzy, and Tess went from an online personality to an overnight sensation. In Tik Tok Boem, Tess shares all the behind-the-scenes details of how her impromptu bathroom break turned into one of TikTok’s most talked-about moments, from the initial shock to the viral aftermath. Amelda vs Leigh Tik Tok Boem dives into the explosive feud between Afrikaans TikTok stars Queen Amelda and Leigh Pascheka, uncovering the roots of their rivalry. Things took a shocking turn when Amelda’s daughter joined a Live with Leigh, leading Amelda to flush her ex’s ashes down the toilet in her own Live. Both influencers share their sides, revealing how their contrasting personalities sparked the drama. Attempted suicides live on TikTok Van Heerden shares that the thing that surprised him the most in making Tiek Tok Boem was “the sheer level of hatred that many of these controversial TikTokkers receive in the comments. It almost felt inhuman, and it really took me by surprise.” Tiek Tok Boem shows the impact these comments have on creators, from Tippex retreating to life on a farm when he could no longer handle the notoriety, to attempted suicides live on Tik Tok, from both Amelda and Leigh. Christiaan, Dr Phillips, and Nina’s love triangle Tik Tok Boem hears from all sides of the love triangle feud between Nina, Christiaan met 2 A’s and Dr Phillips. One rare point of agreement between Christiaan met 2 A’s and Dr. Phillips? They both want nothing more to do with Nina. It’s clear that alcohol played a key role in the escalating feud, with Dr. Phillips calling for Nina to “ease up on the booze.” He adds, “If people think I drink, she drinks way more.” Bin Laken vs Bolhuis Controversial TikTokker Bin Laken found himself under investigation by specialist investigator Mike Bolhuis, amid mounting rumours and serious accusations. Several TikTokkers came forward, alleging that Bin Laken had allegedly deliberately sabotaged their reputations. These claims intensified the firestorm around him, sparking even more controversy. On Tiek Tok Boem!, Bin reveals why he does what he does. “I give people a show. That’s what people want; they don’t join your Live to bake or sit around knitting. I’m going to put on that show. Even if it comes with the hate, even if it comes with whatever it brings, a show is a show. I’m going to bring it.” Stream Tiek Tok Boem! on Showmax now. Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/n4uKsOsSiY4?si=i6uwU7x3864U3AGw Join the conversation: #TiekTokBoem

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Afro House Brothers FiNE, Team Up with Iconic Duo Lemon & Herb On New ‘Twende Remix’ Johannesburg – South African-born, Australia-based Afro-House twin duo FiNE makes a thrilling return with their latest release of the ‘Lemon & Herb Twende Remix’, in collaboration with the legendary duo Lemon & Herb. This powerhouse partnership unites two dynamic forces in Afro-House, showcasing the boundless creativity and innovation emerging from South Africa’s vibrant electronic music scene. Listen to the official single here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pM0Md4zIMM With a deep-rooted passion for crafting evocative soundscapes, FiNE enlisted Lemon & Herb to bring their signature touch to the track, ensuring that it resonates with audiences across the globe. Known for their groundbreaking contributions to Afro House and their work on Black Coffee’s Grammy Award-winning album Subconsciously, Lemon & Herb seamlessly infuse the remix with their unique sonic identity, making this release a must-hear for fans of the genre. “Lemon & Herb have always stayed true to their sound, and we’ve admired them for years,” says FiNE. “It’s an honour to collaborate with them on this remix and showcase the power of unity in Afro House.” As Afro House continues to shape both local and international dance music, South Africa remains a global hub for the genre. While Amapiano has skyrocketed in popularity, Afro House has maintained its dominance through a dedicated underground and mainstream following. Pioneering artists such as Black Coffee, Themba, Caiiro, and Sun-El Musician continue to push the genre forward, reinforcing its influence on the world stage. The impact of the Lemon & Herb Twende Remix is felt globally, with Black Coffee supporting the track in his DJ sets worldwide, including his back-to-back set with Shimza at Kunye in Johannesburg and at Café Del Mar in Phuket. “It means the world to us to get a nod from Black Coffee and see him support our music in his sets across the world. We have great respect for him—he has taken the genre to new heights, and the fact that he includes our music in that journey is mind-blowing,” says FiNE. Beyond the music, FiNE is committed to fostering a strong Afro-House community. Their FiNE Birthday Boutique event on January 18 was a historic moment for Afro-House, featuring Lemon & Herb, Lizwi, and Frigid Armadillo. The event, which was free of charge, attracted over 1,000 attendees and was streamed live across multiple platforms, solidified FiNE’s position as key contributors to the genre’s evolution. The Lemon & Herb Twende Remix is released via Sippy Time and is available on all major streaming platforms. About FiNE FiNE is a South African-born, Australia-based twin duo known for their innovative approach to Afro-House. With a passion for blending deep, soulful beats with captivating melodies, they continue to make waves in the global electronic music scene. Raised in Botswana and now based in Australia, their music is deeply rooted in African rhythms, offering a unique global perspective that sets them apart. Their previous hits, including Nomathemba, Kidonda, and Alpha Omega, have garnered international support from industry heavyweights. With upcoming releases like Ubuntu with Tabia and a remix by Dr Feel, FiNE remains committed to pushing Afro-House into uncharted territories. ENDS

“Berlin/West Africa”: Ronis Goliath’s Debut EP Showcases His Unique Musical Heritage Along-side Grammy-Nominated Collaborators Stream Here Johannesburg, Friday,14 February 2025 – “Berlin/West Africa” marks the highly anticipated debut EP from Ronis Goliath. Following its release, he’s set to embark on a sold-out tour across Germany, a testament to his rapidly growing fanbase. With over 25,000 TikTok video creations on the Berlin / West Africa sound already, this project is poised to make a major cultural impact and solidify Ronis Goliath as a rising force in the music scene. The EP, features the lead single ‘Too Soon,’ co-written by two-time Grammy-nominated songwriter Varren Wade and produced by Hitimpulse (Ellie Goulding, Timbaland, Yung Bleu, Craig David, Ava Max). About Ronis Goliath:  Ronis Goliath is an artist who commands attention the moment he steps on stage. Standing nearly two meters tall, the 26-year-old singer, songwriter, and performer brings a powerful presence and a distinct sound shaped by his global influences. Born in Cameroon and now based in Berlin, he blends a rich musical heritage with modern sensibilities, creating music that resonates across cultures. His breakout moment came with his song Foo7, a viral sensation that stormed the Top 50 Shazam charts in over 20 countries, igniting a wave of love from Nigeria to Europe. A powerhouse performer, Ronis has shared the stage with heavyweights like Oxlade, Masego, Sam Tompkins, Peter Fox, Tiakola and Rag’n’Bone Man. But it’s not just the big stages—his electrifying street performances have turned sidewalks into arenas, amassing over 15 million views on TikTok & Instagram in just months. Whether it’s a festival crowd or a bustling city square, when Ronis Goliath sings, the world stops to listen. Steam now on all music platforms https://platoon.lnk.to/BerlinWA-EP Connect with Ronis Goliath: Instagram: @ronisgoliath TikTok: @ronisgoliathofficial YouTube: Ronis Goliath Ronis Goliath – Too Soon

Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy, which was the most streamed international title on Showmax this week after launching last Friday. For Immediate Use Now streaming on Showmax, Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy is a raw, exclusive look at Sean Combs long before he was known as Puff or Diddy. Featuring never-before-seen footage and stories from those who know him best, Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy sheds light on his childhood, rise to fame, and recent criminal allegations, challenging viewers to rethink everything they thought they knew about the mogul behind the music – and the mugshot. Combs’ trial is scheduled for May 2025. Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy is the #1 Peacock original documentary film of all time among adults aged 18-49 and total viewers. AP reports that Combs is suing for $100m in damages over the documentary. Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv0A5zqv0SE

340ML ANNOUNCE SPECIAL GUESTS FOR THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED REUNION TOUR                       Johannesburg, South Africa – The much-awaited 340ml Reunion Tour is fast approaching, and excitement continues to build as the legendary band unveils the incredible lineup of special guests joining them for this unforgettable journey across South Africa. Having already confirmed the incredibly talented, award winning Thandiswa Mazwai as a featured special guest for the tour, local promoters Ratanang Agency today announced that long-time friend and collaborator Tumi Molekane aka Stogie T who will also be joining the reunion tour. Known for his genre-defying sound and iconic contributions to the South African music scene, Stogie’s performance is sure to be a highlight of the tour. In addition to the live music, a long list of high profiled DJs will be taking the tour to the next level at each stop. These include: Kenzhero Yolophonik Akio LOVESLAVEPHOLA MAMTHUG DWSON Theese celebrated DJs will deliver both high-energy sets and family favs that will keep attendees dancing all night long, adding an exciting electronic touch to the already eclectic and vibrant performances. The 340ml Reunion Tour promises to be an electrifying celebration of South African music, blending a rich mix of live performances, vibrant DJ sets, and nostalgic moments with one of the country’s most iconic musical acts. Fans can expect an unforgettable fusion of genres, exceptional talent, and an atmosphere brimming with energy as 340ml reunites with their fans for a tour that will leave an indelible mark on the music scene. This outdoor family friendly celebration kicks off on Saturday, 15 March at the Kromdraai Hub in Joburg followed by Cape Town’s The Ostrich on Sunday 16 March from 2-9pm. Limited tickets available at HOWLER and are expected to sell out this week. General Access tickets are priced at R395, with discounted entry for children under 13 at R150. Children under 5 years of age can attend for free. For fans looking for a more exclusive experience, VIP Access tickets are available for R650, offering an up-close and personal encounter with the band. Don’t miss out on the chance to see 340ml, Thandiswa Mazwai, Tumi, and an amazing lineup of DJs and musicians. It’s a day of memories, music, and pure joy for all ages. … ENDS… 

MEET THE CELES: SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST CHAOTIC FAMILY IN A SCAM CALLED LOVE The star-studded cast of A Scam Called Love brings the chaotic, hilarious, and heartwarming Cele family to life. A Scam Called Love introduces a family that doesn’t just stir the pot — they throw in everything but the kitchen sink for some added spice, deception, and unexpected hilarity. When Zola brings her American “husband” Julian home, the Cele family is quick to raise their eyebrows. Is this love real, or just another elaborate scam? And as if pretending to be in love isn’t complicated enough, the weight of Zola’s family's opinions and personalities adds an extra layer of drama. With sharp-tongued relatives, deep-seated rivalries, and unfiltered opinions, the Cele family becomes the ultimate jury — interrogating every detail of the latest update to Zola’s love life, making the ruse even more challenging to maintain. MEET THE PARENTS: THE ICE QUEEN & THE MONK 2 MOM / Naledi Cele (played by Brenda Ngxoli) “You cannot be tired. Postpone that jetlag of yours ‘til tomorrow!” Personality: Brutally honest Perfectionist Commanding and intimidating Naledi, affectionately called the “Ice Queen,” commands attention with her striking features and confident demeanor. As a successful attorney, she holds high standards, expecting excellence from herself and others. While she's assertive in both her professional and personal life, Naledi’s relationship with her daughter Zola is complicated. She often compares Zola to her successful cousin Palesa, creating undue pressure. Additionally, Naledi's romantic involvement with a much younger man causes tension with Zola, who is uncomfortable with the age difference. Despite her tough exterior and the high standards she sets, Naledi's love for her children is clear, though her way of showing it can be misunderstood. Underneath her poised facade, she harbors vulnerabilities and a deep desire to give her children the best life possible. 3 DAD / Mandle Cele (played by Fezile Mphela) “Lies and deceit only breed pain” or “sometimes the best things come from uncertainty.” Personality: Values his family name, success, and cultural traditions. Rarely shows emotion, making him hard to read. Values his family name, success, and Zulu traditions. Mandla Cele, a wealthy Zulu patriarch and Zola’s father, has embraced a spiritual transformation following a Vipassana retreat. He has taken a vow of silence, opting for introspection and using an AI device to communicate, adding both humor and depth to his interactions. This choice challenges him to express himself through gestures and expressions, deepening his connections without words. His internal journey reflects the tension in his marriage with Naledi. Once a partnership of love and ambition, it now suffers from Mandla's past errors and misplaced trust. His silence underscores the emotional distance growing between them, serving as both a barrier and a metaphor for their strained relationship. 4 THE JEALOUS COUSIN AND THE EX: DUMB AND DUMBER PALESA & NEO / Palesa Cele (played by Thando Thabethe) and Neo (played by Rendani Mufamadi) Whether they’re manipulating, seducing, or outright scheming, Palesa and Neo don’t just witness the drama — they create it. With egos that are too big for the room, they’re about to turn Zola and Julian’s lie into a battlefield. And who will come out on top in the game of love and deception? One thing’s for sure — nobody is safe when Palesa and Neo are in the mix. 5 PALESA / Palesa Cele (played by Thando Thabethe) “Your claim to Neo expired in high school, together with your hairline.” Personality: Conniving Sharp-tongued Unapologetically competitive At the centre of the drama is Zola’s cousin Palesa, a successful lawyer who brings interrogations to the dinner table. It is no wonder she is the lead investigator hell-bent on investigating the virality of Zola and Julian’s “perfect love story.” A relentless sense of competition defines her complex relationship with Zola. From personal accomplishments to social status, Palesa is always vying to outshine her, and their rivalry becomes even more explosive when Zola discovers that Palesa is now dating her ex-boyfriend. But Palesa isn’t satisfied with just stirring the pot — she takes things further by setting her sights on Julian, Zola’s new American “husband,” adding seduction to her arsenal of mind games. Palesa’s character is equal parts seductive, biting, and unapologetically competitive, which is how she eventually catches Tobi red-handed. Her charm lies in her ability to keep everyone on their toes with her razor-sharp wit, perfectly timed comebacks, and an air of effortless confidence. She’s the kind of woman who can cut through someone’s defences with a single glance or a well-placed word, but her humour and charisma make her a fascinating antagonist. 6 NEO (played by Rendani Mufamadi) “My name’s Neo… like in The Matrix!” Personality: Handsome but clueless Overconfident A coconut (African, but thinks he's "white on the inside") Neo is Zola’s charismatic ex, now Palesa’s boyfriend. Neo is a paradox wrapped in charm, the yin to Palesa’s yang. Where she is calculated, he is reckless. Where she plays chess, he barely knows the rules. He’s an ambitious lawyer who exudes confidence but completely lacks the intellect to match it. Handsome and charismatic, he relies on his good looks and charm to get by, blissfully unaware of his own air- headed tendencies. His relationship with Palesa is a whirlwind of ego and affection — she’s the brains, he’s the good-looking accessory. But when Zola returns with Julian, Neo’s jealousy kicks into overdrive as he continues to swoon over his ex. Despite his relationship with Palesa, he convinces himself that Zola must still be in love with him, and he makes it his mission to win her back. His ridiculous confidence and inability to read the room provide some of the show’s best comedic moments, especially when he squares off against Julian in an unspoken battle of egos. Neo is the dumbest guy who believes he’s the smartest person in the room, and you might too — until he opens his mouth. His misplaced bravado and Palesa’s cunning nature make them a dangerously entertaining duo.