Sizwe Dhlomo Praises Somizi Mhlongo’s Standout Performance at Big Zulu’s Live Show

Sizwe Dhlomo Praises Somizi Mhlongo’s Standout Performance at Big Zulu’s Live Show

  • Somizi Mhlongo ditched his signature flashy looks for something far more meaningful at Big Zulu's Live Experience
  • Sizwe Dhlomo was among those who took to social media to publicly celebrate the media personality's performance
  • Fans in the comments brought up Somizi's late parents, both legendary entertainers in their own right
Sizwe Dhlomo gave Somizi Mhlongo his flowers
Sizwe Dhlomo praised Somizi Mhlongo’s hosting at Big Zulu's event. Images: sizwedhlomo/ Instagram, somizi/ X
Source: UGC

Sizwe Dhlomo has publicly celebrated Somizi Mhlongo after the entertainer delivered a memorable performance at Big Zulu's Live Experience, held at the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City on 24 October 2026.

What caught everyone's attention was Somizi's deliberate departure from the extravagant, high-fashion looks he is known for. Instead, he stepped out in traditional attire inspired by a Zulu ibhinca, pairing the cultural ensemble with tailored pants, Carvella shoes and a golfer. The choice resonated deeply with the crowd, and Somizi worked the stage to a roaring audience response.

Former Kaya FM broadcaster Sizwe Dhlomo joined a wave of South Africans on social media who heaped praise on Somizi for honouring the event's cultural theme with such authenticity. "Somizi is a natural entertainer!" Dhlomo wrote, giving the star his flowers without mincing words.

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It is not the first time Sizwe has publicly celebrated a fellow media figure. Back in September, he praised Dineo Ranaka for her once-popular drive-time show during their shared years at YFM, demonstrating a consistent willingness to acknowledge the talent of his peers.

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Online users gave Somizi Mhlongo his flowers
Sizwe Dhlomo and his followers praised Somizi Mhlongo’s natural talent. Image: somizi
Source: Instagram

Fans attribute Somizi's stage magic to legendary parents

In the comment sections, fans echoed Sizwe's sentiments and used the moment to pay tribute to Somizi's heritage. Many referenced his late parents, Ndaba Mhlongo and Mary Twala, both towering figures in South African entertainment.

Fans praised Somizi Mhlongo's natural talent
Fans attributed Somizi Mhlongo's natural talent to his legendary parents. Images: somizi, Czwe_Luvuno
Source: Twitter

Ndaba, who passed away in 1989, was an actor, comedian and choreographer. He is remembered for his role as Mshefane in the 1977 comedy film Inyakanyaka, and he co-choreographed the iconic production Sarafina!, which went on to earn a Tony Award nomination.

Mary Twala built an equally remarkable legacy, appearing in dozens of celebrated local and international productions including Sarafina!, Beat the Drum, Life Above All, and the television series Yizo Yizo.

In 2019, President Cyril Ramaphosa awarded her the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) in recognition of her lifetime contribution to the performing arts. She passed away in 2020, and appeared posthumously in Beyoncé's Black Is King, released that same year.

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With talent like that running through his bloodline, fans seemed to agree that Somizi's star power is very much earned.

Czwe_Luvuno said:

"Born from elite entertainers."

ThobaniMpungos2 remembered Ndaba Mhlongo:

"Same as ubaba wakhe (his father). That dude would make you laugh without saying anything, like Mr Bean!"

JamaSikati added:

"He's the true definition of 'an apple doesn't fall far from the tree'."

See Somizi Mhlongo's performance below.

Somizi Mhlongo shows love to Connie Ferguson

In an earlier report, Briefly News shared online reactions to Somizi Mhlongo fan-girling Connie Ferguson.

The Sarafina! star could barely contain his excitement as he embraced the legendary actress and declared her his role model.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Moroba Maepa avatar

Moroba Maepa (Entertainment editor) Moroba Maepa (née Moroeng) is the Deputy Head of the Entertainment desk at Briefly News, with nearly a decade of experience in South African media. A specialist in music and entertainment journalism, she began her career at Slikour OnLife before serving as Editor for HipHop Africa. A University of Johannesburg alumna and Google News Initiative certified professional, Moroba joined Briefly News in 2023, where she focuses on editorial excellence and leadership, merging her passion for entertainment with her love for storytelling. Email: moroba.moroeng@briefly.co.za