Thando Thabethe - Biography, Career and Films
Thando Thabethe is a multi-talented South African personality known for her roles as an actress, motivational speaker, TV host, and Radio DJ. She gained prominence as the presenter for the television show "Thando Bares All" on TLC and currently serves as the drive time host on 947. Thabethe holds the distinction of being Nivea's first brand ambassador in Africa, showcasing her influence in the beauty industry.
In recognition of her achievements, Thando Thabethe was honored in 2019 as one of Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30, solidifying her status as a young trailblazer. Her prowess extends to the radio, where she takes the helm as the host of "947 Drive With Thando," engaging audiences with her vibrant and engaging presence.
Early Life
Born on June 18, 1990, in Johannesburg, Gauteng, Thando Thabethe's journey began at Mondeor High School, where she completed her secondary education. Notably, in 2018, she returned to her alma mater to inspire the grade 12 pupils with a motivational speech as they approached their final matric exams.
Following her high school graduation, Thabethe pursued higher education at the University of Johannesburg. In 2011, she earned her Bachelor of Commerce (BCom.) Accounting degree, showcasing her commitment to academic excellence. During her teenage years, Thabethe engaged in theatre productions and secured her first TV role at the age of 14.
Despite facing the loss of her father at the age of 13, Thando Thabethe displayed resilience. Throughout her university years, she continued to participate in theatre productions at the UJ Arts Centre. Additionally, she made a mark in the radio industry, working at UJFM, a community radio station affiliated with the University of Johannesburg, where she started as a news reader and later transitioned into a role as a radio DJ.
Career
Thando Thabethe embarked on her radio career in 2008, starting at UJFM, and later joining YFM in 2011 during her final year of studies. Simultaneously, she played the lead role of Thando Nkosi in the sitcom My Perfect Family, which ran for three seasons. Thabethe's radio journey continued with a role on The Roger Goode Show at 5FM in 2013.
Her diverse acting portfolio includes notable projects such as Club 808, Intersexions, Ngempela, Kowethu, 1s and 2s, Single Guys, and the role of Nolwazi Buzo on Generations: The Legacy from 2014 to 2017. Thabethe made history in 2014 by becoming the first African brand ambassador for Nivea. In 2016, she hosted her own show on 5FM, The Thando Thabooty Show, followed by The Thabooty Drive in 2017.
Thando Thabethe expanded her presence to film, starring in the 2016 feature Mrs. Right Guy alongside Dineo Moeketsi, Thapelo Mokoena, and Lehasa Moloi. She also hosted prominent events such as the South African Music Awards in 2016, alongside Somizi Mhlongo, and the South African Film and Television Awards in 2017.
In 2018, Thabethe launched her television talk show, Thando Bares All, on TLC. She further showcased her acting prowess in the thriller drama series Housekeepers, portraying the character Linda Ndlovu, and maintained her role in the series' second season in 2019. The same year, she starred in the lead role of Zinhle Malinga in the box office hit Love Lives Here. Thabethe's contributions earned her a Best Talk Show award for Thando Bares All at the South African Film and Television Awards.
After five years at 5FM, Thando Thabethe resigned in March 2020, hosting her final Thabooty show on March 5, 2020. She explained her decision to leave on Twitter in April 2020. Thabethe continued her radio career by taking over the drive time slot at 3pm on 947 on March 23, 2021. In May 2022, she was announced as a judge for Miss South Africa 2022.
Personal Life
Thando Thabethe experienced profound loss at a young age when her father passed away during her eighth-grade year at the age of 13. Tragically, she also faced the untimely death of her brother, Sibu Thabethe, who was shot dead in an armed robbery in 2015.
In her personal life, Thando Thabethe has navigated challenges in relationships. Her engagement to Frans Mashao was called off, with unconfirmed rumors suggesting issues of infidelity on his part. Thabethe has chosen not to confirm or deny these rumors, asserting that she does not feel the need to explain the reasons behind ending the engagement.
Despite personal challenges, Thando Thabethe has remained engaged with her community and alma mater. She accepted an invitation from her high school to give a speech to students preparing for their matriculation exams, demonstrating her commitment to education and mentorship.
There is a circulating rumor that Thando Thabethe is related to Ayanda Thabethe; however, this information is false, as they are not related in any way. Additionally, Thando Thabethe has been romantically linked to Lunga Shabalala in the past.
Films
Love Lives Here (2019)
Mrs Right Guy (2016)
Television Roles
My Perfect Family (season 1–3) - (2008-2010)
Single Guys - 2010
Intersexions - 2010
Kowethu - 2013
Mzansi Love - 2014
Generations: The Legacy - 2014-2017
Thando Bares All - 2018
Housekeepers (season 1-3) - (2018-present)
Blood Psalms - 2020
How to Ruin Christmas: The Wedding - 2020
Reyka - 2020
Unstoppable: Thabooty – 2023
Awards
In 2023, She won the South African Film and Television Awards for Best Actress (TV Comedy)
In 2022, She was nominated for the DStv Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards for Favourite Radio Personality
References
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