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In the show’s second spectacular face-off, four dazzling new Masks made their debut: Lady Monster, Spotty the pooch, the menacing Mosquito and the majestic King Pie.

Lady Monster charmed the audience and judges alike with a lively performance of the HUNTR/X hit “Golden”. But while her vocals and stage presence lit up the stage, her identity remained a mystery.

The panel Somizi Mhlongo, J’Something, Sithelo Shozi and Skhumba chased every clue. Her candyfloss-filled clue package revealed she rose to fame in 2016, the same year Pokémon Go became a global craze. She also shared that she “never follows recipes” and “doesn’t believe in comic-book saviours,” with “real life already demanding enough belief.”

Guesses flew. J’Something suggested poet Busiswa Gqulu. Skhumba landed on Thembi Seete. Somizi, channeling the ancestors, guessed Brenda Ngxoli. Even Sithelo, who is close friends with Linda in real life, didn’t clock it, instead guessing actress Mampho Brescia after picking up on Lady Monster’s love for family and her daughter.

In the end Lady Monster landed in the danger zone. When the mask finally came off, the studio erupted.

“It’s Beanie! Her daughter is Beanie!” shouted Sithelo in disbelief.

Skhumba wasted no time teasing his fellow detective reminding her of the time she laughed at him for not recognizing Trevor Gumbi. “The wheels have turned!” he crowed.

Linda, who has been a household name since her breakout role in Isibaya in 2016, told host Mpho Popps that the secret was incredibly hard to keep.

“Everyone in my household was shook when I took the mask off,” she laughed. “My daughter Beanie is a huge fan of the show. She’s definitely going to tease me about this for months.”

Linda also shared that she’s a longtime fan of The Masked Singer and used to watch it with Beanie every season making her turn as Lady Monster even more special.

Despite her elimination, Linda’s performance and reveal have already become one of the season’s most talked about moments, proving once again why she remains one of Mzansi’s most beloved stars.

The first mask has fallen on The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3, and it’s none other than comedy heavyweight Trevor Gumbi.

The beloved stand-up comedian, actor, writer and TV personality was revealed as Ponte Tower during Saturday’s premiere on SABC 2, making him the first celebrity to be unmasked in the new season.

Disguised as an icon of the Johannesburg skyline, Gumbi took to the stage in a towering costume to perform TKZee’s classic “Dlala Mapantsula”. The high-energy song-and-dance number had the crowd and the panel completely stumped.

The detectives were way off
The Season 3 detective panel J’Something, Sithelo Shozi, Skhumba and Somizi Mhlongo threw out guesses ranging from podcast host MacG and Trevor Noah to SK Khoza and Bongani Fassie.

Only Somizi came close in the final round, taking a last-minute shot at “another Trevor… an actor and comedian” and nailing it.

After the votes from the audience and panel were counted, Ponte Tower was sent to the Danger Zone with Leopard, before ultimately being sent home and unmasked.

Life inside the mask
Speaking after the reveal, Gumbi shared what it was really like performing in the massive costume.
“There is a ceiling fan inside the mask,” he laughed. “But it was over my right eye – the one that can see!”

With a career spanning stand-up, television, writing and acting, Gumbi is one of Mzansi’s most recognisable entertainers. His unmasking sets the tone for what promises to be another unpredictable season.

What to expect this season
The Masked Singer South Africa sees 16 A-list celebrities hide behind elaborate costumes as they compete for the coveted Golden Mask trophy. Each week, four Masks go head-to-head with clues, sing-offs and wild detective guesses deciding who stays.

This season the show has moved to its new home on SABC 2.

Watch The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3:
Premiere: Saturdays at 19:00 on SABC 2
Repeats: Thursdays at 21:00 on SABC 1 and Fridays at 13:30 on SABC 2

Pick n Pay asap! has just made grocery shopping in South Africa a lot less effort. The retailer has announced Penny, the country’s first fully integrated AI-powered grocery shopping companion, marking the first time an SA grocery platform has moved from “search-and-scroll” to conversation-led shopping.

Launching to all customers from 6 July 2026 via the latest version of the Pick n Pay asap! app, Penny lets shoppers simply ask for what they need by voice, text, or even with a photo and she’ll instantly build their basket.

“On-demand delivery changed how people shop. AI is now changing how they order,” says Enrico Ferigolli, Retail Executive: Omnichannel at Pick n Pay. “We’re moving from search-and-scroll shopping to conversation-led shopping that makes buying groceries faster, smarter and far more intuitive. For years, the focus has been on faster delivery. The next disruption is removing the effort from shopping itself.”

How Penny works  

Powered by Google’s Gemini AI models, Penny is built around real South African shopping habits and understands multiple languages. Instead of navigating categories, customers can:

 •  Shop conversationally in any language

 •  Dictate shopping lists with voice notes  

 •  Upload photos of handwritten lists, recipes, or fridge contents for meal ideas

 •  Snap products they want to reorder

 •  Ask for recipes and add all ingredients to basket instantly

 •  Get substitutions, budgeting help and entertaining ideas

Penny also learns over time. Integrated with Smart Shopper, she can personalize recommendations based on past purchases, reload your usual weekly basket and suggest products based on brand, quantity and price preferences.

“We are now in the era of AI assistants, where AI is moving beyond simply answering questions to helping people get things done,” says Kabelo Makwane, Country Director for Google South Africa. “When these capabilities are built into products people already know and trust, they solve real everyday problems in a simple, intuitive way.”

What’s next  

The launch follows Pick n Pay’s replatforming of asap! last year, which the retailer says has accelerated its ability to roll out AI-powered features. “This is only the beginning of what AI can unlock for everyday grocery shopping, and Penny is the first step in that journey,” Ferigolli concludes.

Penny will be available to all Pick n Pay asap! customers from 6 July 2026. Update your app to start shopping with her.

The mystery is back and it’s louder than ever. The sensational third season of The Masked Singer South Africa premieres Saturday, 4 July at 19:00 on its new home SABC 2with 16 A-list celebrities set to set the stage alight, all hiding behind elaborate costumes. 

While viewers wait with bated breath to see which stars will fool the show’s sharp-eyed detective panel Somizi Mhlongo, J’Something, Sithelo Shozi and Skhumba. The producers have lifted the lid on the first batch of Masks for Season 3. 

Meet the first 8 Masks turning up the heat:

Leopard

Leopard doesn’t blend into the background. Cool under pressure and bursting with confidence, this big cat knows how to make a grand entrance and get a crowd roaring. 

Spotty

Like Leopard, Spotty thrives in the spotlight. The friendly, playful, cuddly pooch turns every appearance into an event and has a habit of bouncing straight into hearts. 

Mosquito

Creates a buzz everywhere, anywhere. This impossible-to-ignore, high-flying entertainer is bold, brilliant and built to keep all eyes on stage. 

Lady Monster

Don’t be fooled by the name. This lovable creature lives life at full volume, with a big personality, serious va-va-voom and a track record for stealing the show. 

Spinach

Spinach doesn’t veg out when things get controversial. Instead, this green giant turns over a new leaf, proves people wrong, keeps growing and says it as it is. 

Pineapple

On the sweeter side, Pineapple lets the music do the talking. Warm-hearted, friendly and full of personality, this fruit’s voice has fans swooning. 

Protea

Representing Mzansi’s national flower, Protea stands tall, elegant and stylish. Strong, impossible to overlook and full of resilience and pride. 

Koeksister

Another Mzansi icon. Koeksister’s personality is difficult to untangle and that’s exactly how they like it. Golden, clever with a comeback and always keeping people guessing. 

Clues, chaos, and comedy

In The Masked Singer SA Season 3, every detail matters. Clues are hidden in the Masks costumes, song choices, movement and interactions. Miss a second and you might miss the answer. 

Mpho Popps returns as the witty host leading the investigation with a lineup of familiar famous faces popping in as guest detectives across the season. 

The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3 is produced by Rose and Oaks Media for Primedia Studios and sponsored by Andolex, King Pie and Mentos.

Don’t miss it:

Premiere: Saturday, 4 July at 19:00 on SABC 2  

Rebroadcasts: Thursdays at 21:00 on SABC 1 | Fridays at 13:30 on SABC 2 

On Saturday, 5 September 2026, 947 Joburg Day returns to Crocodile Creek Polo Club with a bold new chapter. This year, it’s more than a concert. 947 is transforming the event into a multi-sensory cultural playground where music, family, art, fashion, food and lifestyle collide for one unforgettable day.

For years, 947 has been intricately woven into the fabric of Johannesburg’s vibrant energy. This year marks the beginning of a bold new journey as we start painting Joburg pink, bringing deeper cultural experiences, immersive activations and family friendly fun to life,” says Primedia Broadcasting Chief Content Officer, Mzo Jojwana. “We are excited to lead Joburg into a vibrant new era of celebration, embracing everything that makes Joburg 947 and 947 Joburg.

947 Joburg Day is built for Johannesburg’s family and community spirit. Beyond the main stage, expect interactive zones for families and youth, local art and street culture installations, plus South African street food that celebrates local flavor. There’s a place and pace for everyone to connect and celebrate spring.

The 2026 lineup brings pure headliner heat: Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, DJ Zinhle, Sun-El Musician, Mi Casa, MÖRDA, Zee Nxumalo, Will Linley, Locnville, Lordkez and the Soweto Gospel Choir.

Tickets & Details

Tickets are available now at http://ticketmaster.co.za:

General Access: R550  

Chill Zone: R1000 – premium, relaxed festival vibe  

Kids 3-12: R250 

The first 2,000 tickets come with preferential parking and exclusive surprises.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, 5 September 2026  

Venue: Crocodile Creek Polo Club  

Gates Open: 9:00 AM  

Step into Joburg’s cultural playground, embrace the pink energy and make spring memories unlike any other. Stay tuned for updates and exclusive surprises on http://primediaplus.com, and tune in to 947 for more.

McDonald’s South Africa has appointed Keegan Alicks as Chief Marketing Officer, effective 1 April 2026, in a move aimed at accelerating its Accelerating the Arches growth strategy and deepening brand relevance with local consumers.

CEO Max Oliva welcomed the appointment, saying: “Keegan brings a depth of marketing experience and proven leadership that will be instrumental as we continue to evolve our brand and strengthen our connection with South African consumers.”

Alicks joins McDonald’s with more than 20 years of experience building brands in complex, performance-driven markets. He is known for delivering sustainable growth through data-led insights, digital capability, and disciplined execution.

He previously served as Marketing Director for Beauty and Personal Care at Unilever Southern Africa, where he sat on the Unilever Southern Africa Executive Team. Most recently, he was National Marketing Executive for Advertising and Promotions at the SPAR Group.

Throughout his career, Alicks has led competitive growth and strong market-share performance across dynamic portfolios. He is recognised for aligning cross-functional teams, building high-trust partnerships, and translating strategy into execution at scale.

His background in franchise and retail-driven environments, combined with a focus on customer-centric, data-led decision-making, positions him to lead McDonald’s marketing function into its next phase of growth.

“We are delighted to welcome Keegan to McDonald’s South Africa and look forward to the leadership, energy and perspective he brings to our business,” Oliva added.

With South Africans feeling the pinch of rising living costs, Vodacom is offering a practical lifeline: free funeral cover that requires nothing more than a regular monthly mobile recharge.

Under Vodacom’s new campaign, prepaid customers who recharge a total of R120 or more in a month qualify for R10,000 funeral cover at no extra cost — a move aimed at easing one of households’ biggest unexpected expenses.

Funeral costs in South Africa can run into tens of thousands of rands, and traditional cover often comes with paperwork, medical checks and monthly premiums. Vodacom is cutting those barriers. Customers simply recharge any amount during the month; once their total hits R120, they can register for the cover.

Registration is quick and paper-free. Prepaid users can sign up via the VodaPay app or by dialling _123# on their phone. Once registered, the R10,000 cover activates on the 1st of the following month, giving families peace of mind with every recharge.

The cover is underwritten by Vodacom Life Assurance, a licensed life insurer.

How it works

– Recharge R120 or more in a calendar month

– No paperwork or medical exams required

– Register on the VodaPay app or dial _123#

– R10,000 funeral cover starts on the 1st of the next month

As financial strain grows, Vodacom says the initiative is designed to be accessible, straightforward and genuinely valuable for families wanting to protect themselves from the burden of funeral costs.

Castle Lite used the spotlight of LIV Golf South Africa 2026 to launch its latest innovation — (Draught in a Can) a new format that brings the crisp, bar-style draught experience into a portable can.

The reveal took place on the opening day of the tournament at Steyn City, where thousands of fans had gathered for the inaugural South African leg of LIV Golf. With global eyes on the event, Castle Lite chose the moment to extend its signature draught experience beyond the tap.

For the first time, the smooth, extra-cold taste South Africans associate with Castle Lite Draught (brewed at -2.5°C) will be available in a can, designed for enjoyment anywhere.

The unveiling was staged as a dramatic moment in the Castle Lite Fan Village. Springbok Pieter-Steph du Toit arrived carrying a sealed trophy case — the kind usually reserved for silverware. Instead, the case opened to reveal Castle Lite Draught in a Can.

He was joined on stage by brand ambassador Juicy Jay, while Castle Lite Brand Director Colleen Duvenage lifted the lid for fans, who were among the first in the country to taste it. Music and on-site celebrations followed.

“​As South Africa’s favourite draught, we knew there was an opportunity to keep raising the bar,” said Duvenage. “LIV Golf South Africa gave us a stage that matches our ambition — where fans gather to celebrate sport, music and culture. Draught in a Can brings the smooth and crisp draught experience people love into a convenient new format designed for more occasions and more places.”

Castle Lite says the new product preserves the smoothness and quality of draught beer while offering greater convenience and accessibility.

The launch is part of the brand’s broader fan engagement strategy at the tournament, which includes a dedicated Castle Lite activation zone in the Fan Village where spectators can experience the brand across the weekend. Following its exclusive debut, Draught in a Can will roll out nationally.

For Castle Lite, the move marks the next chapter in how South Africans enjoy draught — turning a bar ritual into an everyday, anywhere experience.

NIVEA turned skincare for underarms into a full sensory experience at its recent Derma Control event, held at STAY by Imitable in Muldersdrift. The gathering brought together high-profile influencers for an afternoon that blended hydration, renewal, and self-care — the core promises behind NIVEA’s new Derma Control deodorant range.

The venue set the tone: a calm, upscale space surrounded by greenery, tranquil pools and natural light. Guests sipped NIVEA-blue drinks and sampled nutrient-rich canapés, gelato and sweet treats while a jazz soundtrack played in the background. The day’s message was clear and simple: #ConfidenceWithoutCompromise.

MC Barbara Moagi opened proceedings with a panel discussion featuring Dr Fez and other dermatology experts. They unpacked why underarm care matters as much as facial skincare, highlighting the Derma Control range’s Even Tone and Defend lines. The conversation emphasized choosing products that protect skin health over time, not just mask odour.

That insight was woven into the day’s activities. At the Even Tone Smoothie Bike, guests pedalled to create their own blends using vitamin C-rich citrus and botanicals — a hands-on nod to the range’s promise of visible results. The NIVEA Care Lab drove the point home with interactive touchpoints, including a 72-Second Challenge, a touchscreen memory game, and a prize draw, all showcasing 72-hour protection and skin-care benefits.

One of the most talked-about spots was the Confidence Capture Studio. Celebrity coach Mirriam Ngomani led guests through power poses before they stepped in front of the camera to show their boldest selves. Each attendee left with a personalised Fieldbar water bottle engraved on site — a practical reminder that hydration and self-care continue long after the event.

Formulated with hyaluron, vitamin C and pro-vitamin B5, the Derma Control range is designed to defend underarm skin against irritation from shaving while keeping it soft and comfortable. The antiperspirants offer 72-hour sweat and odour protection, leaving skin feeling healthier.

From Anti-Stain to Dry, Fresh and Cool Kick, the event reinforced NIVEA’s broader message: advanced underarm care can be simple, intuitive and part of everyday life. The Derma Control experience reminded guests that no matter where life takes them, NIVEA is there to help them move, shine and glow with ease.

As South Africa commemorates Human Rights Month, the spotlight shines on a fundamental human right: access to food. Despite being a food-secure nation, approximately 14 million people – about one-third of the population – experience food insecurity, with over 25% of children under five suffering from stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition.

This stark reality underscores the need for collective action. SPAR, a proud partner of FoodForward SA, is working to address this challenge. Through initiatives like the Mother and Child Nutrition Programme and Food Gardens Connect, FoodForward SA is empowering communities to grow their own produce and redistributing surplus food to vulnerable families.

Other local heroes, like SA Harvest, have delivered over 48.3 million meals by rescuing surplus food, while Operation Hunger’s “Hunger Heroes” mobilise citizens to support local feeding points. Ladles of Love and Chefs with Compassion are also making a difference, serving nutritious meals to those in need.

SPAR’s commitment to community extends beyond retail. When floods devastated Thabazimbi, the company partnered with locals to deliver aid, using off-road vehicles, canoes, and helicopters to reach stranded families.

This Human Rights Month, SPAR’s message is clear: collective effort can make the right to food a reality for more South Africans. By working together, business and communities can cook for change and create a brighter future for all.