Cape Town – South Africa has been let in on the closely guarded secret of the new season 18 Idols SA‘s judges after the departure of fellow previous judges, Unathi Nkayi and Randall Abrahams.
Seasoned actress and songstress Thembi Seete and Motswako rapper Tabure Thabo “JR” Bogopa will be taking over the judging seats and joining media personality Somizi Mhlongo in tow.
Co-executive producer and host, Proverb took to Instagram on Wednesday to share the news of the duo joining their production.
“Your judges for Idols SA season 18 are: The incomparable sis Thembi Seete, producer extraordinaire JR and the seasoned & multi-faceted Somizi,” he wrote on his caption on a picture he shared.
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Proverb said that besides the new judging panel, they have a whole new host of talent and some “crazy tricks” from a production’s perspective and that people should look out for it.
JR said that he is bringing in a much more in-depth look into the music industry this year and into the season.
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“I’ve always been a lover of music and great talent and I think having been in all aspects of the music industry, from being in the music to understanding the business of music.
ALSO READ: Idols SA takes ‘fresh approach’ to judging panel… says bye to Randall Abrahams and Unathi Nkayi
“I’m looking at grabbing a talent that will definitely shine and definitely represent the youth and the music of right now. So, I’m much more excited about the discovery of this year’s talent. And that’s what I am going to be bringing this year,” said JR on Instagram.
Thembi Seete said that she will be bringing in years of experience.
“You know how much I love being on stage and you know how passionate I am about music and you know that I’ve been around. So that’s what I’m going to be bringing. I want the young people to walk away with something that they have learned from their sister,” she wrote on Instagram.
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Thembi is a previous guest judge on the music show after she took over from Somizi who was suspended last year amidst Gender Based Violence (GBV) allegations from his estranged husband, Mohale Motaung.
“We’re excited to have Idols SA return for an incredible 18th season. To have such longevity in such a fast-changing industry is no small feat, and we’re proud to keep giving our viewers what they love. One of the key components in having staying power is evolution, and our new-look panel is part of that,” said Nomsa Philiso, Executive Head of Programming: General Entertainment.
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Picture: Dstv
Compiled by Odwa Shumi
