Somizi Praises His Late Parents’ Legacy

South African media personality, actor and radio host Somizi Mhlongo has paid tribute to his late parents, reflecting on their remarkable talents and the impact they made in the entertainment industry.

During an interview with Relebogile Mabotja on 702’s Afternoons with Relebogile Mabotja, Somizi spoke about his parents’ achievements and explained how growing up in a family of iconic entertainers influenced his own approach to success.

The media personality shared a short video from the radio interview, giving fans a glimpse into his conversation about the people who shaped his life and career.

Somizi began by praising his father, Ndaba Walter Mhlongo, for his contribution to comedy in South Africa. He explained how his father developed his own approach to performing and became a pioneer in the industry.

“My dad is one of the first comedians on television. My dad is one original gent who shifted and set the scripts, in comedy, my dad never used a script. He used to act as a person who stutters because he struggled to memorise lines. So, stuttering would help him think what he’s going to say and it worked for him. He was a visionary and he broke barriers for comedy in this country.”

He also highlighted his father’s involvement in the celebrated musical Sarafina!, revealing an achievement that he believes many people may not know about.

“Them Sarafina! Came and he was the choreographer and he was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Choreography in a Musical. Like people don’t know that.”

Ndaba Walter Mhlongo was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Choreography in 1988 for his work on Sarafina!, further cementing his place in the entertainment industry.

Reflecting on the expectations that came with his family background, Somizi explained why failure never felt like an option for him.

“I had no choice but to be successful, even if I nested to fail I was not going to fail because I come from two iconic talents”

He also celebrated his late mother, legendary actress Mary Twala, whose dedication to her craft remained evident throughout her career.

“My mother’s work ethic is unparallel, She worked until the end. How iconic that she ends with a Beyoncé’ movie.”

Mary Twala appeared in Beyoncé’s 2020 visual album and film, Black Is King, in an elder figure role inspired by Rafiki. The project marked the final on-screen performance of her six-decade acting career. She passed away on 4 July 2020, shortly before the film premiered on Disney+.

Concluding his thoughts on his parents’ extraordinary accomplishments, Somizi added: “And then you expect me to fail.”

His words highlighted the influence of two celebrated performers whose contributions continue to form part of South Africa’s entertainment history.

Ndaba Walter Mhlongo passed away on 29 October 1989, while Mary Twala died in July 2020. Through his reflections, Somizi honoured their lasting legacies and the inspiration they continue to provide.