Latest news with #TheMommyClub:VanDieHoofstad
The Citizen
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Not just 'Lazy, rich housewives'! Louise Volschenk Reveals All
In just weeks since its premiere, The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad has become the most-watched Afrikaans show on Showmax since the platform's relaunch, officially surpassing the previous hit, Trompoppie. In an exclusive interview, the beautiful Louise Volschenk opened up about her journey on The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad and what fans can expect. The cast includes Ansu Viljoen, Crystal Van Der Burgh, Johandri Johnson, Tessa Tullues, and fan-favourite firecracker Volschenk, each bringing her unique flair, story, and drama to the table. Picture: Showmax 'Motherhood is about more than just routines and responsibilities; it's about embracing the joy, humour, and every little moment in between,' says Volschenk. 'When the opportunity came along, I saw it as the perfect chance to share my story as a mom, wife, and businesswoman in a real and relatable way.' She promises laughs, emotion, and plenty of fashion moments — but warns that living the show is nothing like watching it. 'You feel every emotion – the laughter, the chaos, the challenges. Things aren't always as glamorous behind the scenes!' Glamour meets grit While the moms live lives filled with sparkle and sophistication, their day-to-day is anything but easy. Volschenk, a proud entrepreneur and hands-on mom, speaks candidly about the importance of balance. 'You can't pour from an empty cup,' she reflects. 'Taking time for myself isn't selfish – it's essential. And of course, I've learned that a little humour can get you through almost anything!' Despite the demanding schedule of the show and her personal commitments, she says planning and time management have become her superpowers. ALSO READ: 'I was never a pushover or an instigator': Johandri Johnson on her 'Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad' journey Friendships, friction, and real talk With strong personalities comes inevitable tension, but Volschenk has her own approach to conflict. 'Laughter is my first weapon. When that fails, I go for open, honest conversations. Not every battle is worth fighting.' She feels especially close to fellow cast member Tullues, bonding over their shared love for wine, comfort food, and the art of the hustle. 'She's my kind of person – strong, grounded, and always ready for a good time.' ALSO READ: Get to know Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg, representing Mzansi at Miss World competitions Critics, trolls, and taking a stand Though the public has shown immense support, Volschenk admits the show's reception hasn't been all smooth sailing. 'Some Afrikaans women have criticised us, calling us lazy, rich housewives, which couldn't be further from the truth.' 'I've built a business from the ground up while raising my kids and running a household – no nannies, no shortcuts. If that's lazy, I'd hate to see what hard work looks like!' She hopes the show will challenge these stereotypes and showcase the strength behind the glitz. ALSO READ: Kefilwe Mabote burns her pricey Christian Dior tote to 'cut spiritual ties' Breaking records and raising eyebrows The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad, a Showmax Original directed by Pascual Wakefield (Beaulah: Queens Van Die Kaap), isn't just making headlines – it's rewriting them. The reality series follows five dynamic Afrikaans mothers juggling motherhood, status, and ambition in Pretoria. Among the standout personalities is Johnson, a 33-year-old wife, full-time mother, and multi-title Bikini Fitness champion. Have you watched The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad yet? Who do you relate to most – and why? NOW READ: Diddy's ex Cassie to face intense defense questioning
The Citizen
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘I'd love to see them find common ground' — The Mommy Club reunion host Ntombee Ngcobo-Mzolo
Ntombee Ngcobo-Mzolo says her approach to hosting the reunion show will be rooted in understanding and resolution. Reality TV shows have become so popular that the host of the reunion episode has become as crucial as a referee of a sporting finale. 'I'm here to represent the viewers and ensure they get the clarity they deserve on everything that's happened this season,' said media personality Ntombee Ngcobo-Mzolo, who will host The Mommy Club reunion later this month. Ngcobo-Mzolo returns as the host for the popular Showmax reality TV show's reunion episode. The Mommy Club's season 3 finale ended tensely and uncertainly. The cast members were split into two factions. On one side stand the OG Hermajesty, who has been part of the show since the first season, Season 2 alum Mrs Sande, and newcomers Pheladi and Vuyi. The other faction sees newcomers Mrs J, Noksie, and a friend of the show, Rosette. ALSO READ: Bring back Mrs. Mops! Viewers demand return of 'Mommy Club' fan favourite Ngcobo-Mzolo's approach Given the cast members' divisions, Ngcobo-Mzolo says her approach to hosting the reunion will be rooted in understanding and resolution. 'As the reunion host, my goal is to create a space where the mommies can speak freely and work through their issues,' she said. 'Ideally, I'd love to see them find common ground and move forward as a group. That begins with getting to the root of their conflicts and truly acknowledging each other's perspectives.' While her approach would make Nelson Mandela proud, Ngcobo-Mzolo acknowledges that she still needs to ask tough questions that viewers are eager to answer. 'I want viewers to feel that all their burning questions have been answered; nothing should be left unsaid.' ALSO READ: 'I was never a pushover or an instigator': Johandri Johnson on her 'Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad' journey The Mommy Club's growth Season 3 of The Mommy Club is the most-watched reality series of 2025 so far on Showmax, while its Pretoria-set spinoff, The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad, recently set a new Showmax record as the most-watched Afrikaans series since the African streamer's relaunch last year. The Mommy Club: Sugar & Spice, set in Durban's Indian community, is the second South African edition. The Mommy Club: Tanzania marks the franchise's expansion into East Africa and is currently streaming on Showmax. The mothers include actress, musician, entrepreneur Rose Ndauka, actress, businesswoman, and brand ambassador Marry Mtemi, and award-winning actress and comedian Pili Kitimtim. The Mommy Club reunion will be broadcast on Showmax on 17 and 24 May. NOW READ: 'The Mommy Club' star Ratile Mabitsela opens up about her husband's passing
The South African
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
'The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad' smashes viewership record
Showmax's latest reality sensation, The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad , has just rewritten the record books. This vibrant Afrikaans series has become the most-watched Afrikaans show on Showmax since the platform's relaunch, surpassing the previous record-holder, Trompoppie . Produced by POP24 and directed by Pascual Wakefield, the show follows five formidable Afrikaans mothers from Pretoria. These women are juggling parenting duties and redefining what it means to balance motherhood, power, and prestige in modern South Africa. The cast includes Ansu Viljoen, Crystal Van Der Burgh, Louise Volschenk, Tessa Tullues, and Johandri Johnson, according to Showmax Stories . Johandri Johnson shared her motivation for joining the show: 'I wanted to be part of a community of strong, inspiring women who understand the unique journey of motherhood. It's about sharing real stories, the highs and the lows, and supporting each other. Moms can be powerful, stylish, successful, and still vulnerable.' She emphasised the importance of authenticity: 'I wanted to represent who I am in my authentic self, to connect with others, and to inspire women who can relate to me and my story'. Watching herself on screen was an emotional experience for Johandri. Seeing my vulnerable and soft-hearted moments made me realise the strength it took to stay true to myself. Yes, it hurt, but it reminded me of my resilience and strength,' she said. The feedback from her family and friends has been overwhelmingly positive. 'Everyone who knows me has said, 'That's exactly who you are.' It means so much to be seen and celebrated for who I genuinely am'. The show has also been a journey of self-discovery for Johandri. 'I've learned that not everyone deserves access to your energy or your close circle. You can set boundaries and remain kind, because strength doesn't always have to be loud; it can be calm, grounded, and unapologetically real'. With a reunion episode on the horizon, Johandri is ready to clear the air. 'I was never a pushover or an instigator. I choose my battles wisely and stand up for myself. If it feels like high school drama, I keep my distance. That takes strength, not weakness'. The connections formed on the show run deepand she appreciates the bonds. 'I made genuine bonds based on mutual respect and real energy, not just for the cameras. That's what truly matters,' she said. Johandri encourages viewers to keep watching. 'It's real, raw, and there's still so much more to come. Beneath the drama, there's a powerful story about friendship, motherhood, and growth. Whether you're a mom, a businesswoman, or a young girl, there's something to relate to or learn from. It's more than entertainment, it's real life unfolding right in front of you'. Catch new episodes of The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad every Friday on Showmax. Fans can also compare the Johannesburg and Durban editions, with a Tanzanian version launching on 25 April. This show is a must-watch for South Africans who want a fresh, authentic look at modern motherhood wrapped in glamour, grit, and genuine heart. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
