Somizi Mhlongo's net worth, houses and cars (photos)
Somizi Mhlongo is undoubtedly one of South Africa's most prolific entertainers with a multi-faceted career that has afforded him fame and wealth. From his role as a judge on Idols SA to his ventures as an actor, singer, dancer, author, chef, and brand ambassador, his career has been diverse and successful. This article looks at Somizi Mhlongo's net worth and how he makes his money.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Being the son of veteran actors Ndaba Mhlongo and Mary Twala, Somizi had early exposure and connections in the South African entertainment industry. He began his career in the late 1980s after dropping out of school and has never looked back since. His connections got him in, but his talents have ensured a blossoming career despite the various setbacks he has faced over the years.
Somizi Mhlongo's profile summary
| Full name | Somizi Buyani Mhlongo |
| Other names | Somgaga |
| Date of birth | December 23, 1972 |
| Age | 51 years in 2024 |
| Birth sign | Capricorn |
| Place of birth | Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Gender | Male |
| Sexual orientation | Gay |
| Marital status | Divorced |
| Ex-husband | Mohale Motaung (2019 to 2021) |
| Children | One daughter, Bahumi (with TV personality Palesa Madisakwane) |
| Parents | Late actress Mary Twala and actor Ndaba Mhlongo |
| Siblings | Late brother Archie |
| Profession | Actor, choreographer, media personality, presenter, businessman |
| Social media | InstagramX (Twitter) |
How rich is Somizi?
The South African media personality has an estimated net worth of $5 million according to various sources, including Celebrity Net Worth and the South African. Somizi's net worth in rands as of 2024 is around R93 million. Most of his income comes from his career as a media personality, choreographer, actor, and entrepreneur.
Somizi's Idols' salary
Mholongo was a judge of Idols South Africa from 2015 until the show was cancelled in 2023. His salary varied from year to year. In 2020 and 2021, his monthly salary was estimated to be R48,700, while the daily allowance was around R1,500.
The payment was increased in 2022 to R200,000 per month, while the daily allowance rose to R2,000. During Somizi Mhlongo's time in the reality singing competition, SIC Entertainment took care of his accommodation and transport.
Source: Getty Images
Metro FM
The media personality joined Metro FM in 2017 before he was relieved of his duties in 2021 following abuse allegations from Mohale Motaung. He made a comeback in 2023 as part of the station's new lineup for the year. His salary on the show has yet to be made public.
Somizi Mhlongo's houses
The flamboyant celebrity owns five mansions across South Africa. He has three houses in Gauteng Province, including a mansion in Soweto, a golf estate property in Dainfern, and another home in Fourways.
The media star has another property in Parys, Free State and an R20 million mansion at the Zimbali Coastal Resort & Estate in KwaZulu-Natal. He adores the Zimbali mansion and often gives fans a sneak peek into its features.
Source: UGC
Somizi Mhlongo's cars
The former Idols SA judge owns a fleet of luxurious cars. His collection is worth around R23.85 million, as highlighted below:
- BMW Z4 (Approx. R950,000)
- Land Rover Range Rover Sport (Approx. R2.9 million)
- Rolls Royce Phantom (Approx. R3.5 million)
- Rolls Royce Wraith (Approx. R5 million)
- BMW i8 (Approx. R2.7 million)
- Mercedes-BenzoG350d (Approx. 2.4 million)
- Lamborghini Urus (R4.4 million)
- Mercedes-Benz AMG-E63 (Approx. 2 million)
Source: UGC
How did Somizi Mholongo make his fortune?
Somgaga has an extensive portfolio that makes him one of the most successful celebrities in South Africa. He began his career as an actor, making his film debut in 1987's Scavengers at age 13.
His breakthrough came when he joined the Broadway show Sarafina! He was later cast as Fire (nicknamed Whacko) in the political musical's film adaptation. He went on to appear in films like Cry, the Beloved Country and Kein Himmel uber Afrika.
His television career includes his appearance in the series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures. He later became a judge on the popular competition show Idols South Africa. In 2016, Somizi's show, Living the Dream with Somizi, premiered on Mzansi Magic.
As a choreographer, he has appeared on major platforms like the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. He has also shown his dance moves on shows like Miss South Africa, Metro FM Music Awards, South Africa Music Awards, and the Channel O Music Video Awards.
Somgaga's radio career includes his hosting gig on Metro FM. He is also an author known for his autobiography, Dominoes: Unbreakable Spirit. As a brand ambassador, the star has worked with big companies like DStv, McDonald's South Africa, Samsung, L'Oreal, and Adidas.
The entertainer has also diversified into business. In 2023, he launched a children's clothing line called Sompire Kids. He told The Citizen that he has plans to diversify the company into adult clothing and accessories like handbags, gloves, and hats.
In 2024, the choreographer ventured into the alcohol business and established the Somizi Liquor Store to the excitement of many of his fans.
Source: UGC
FAQs
Somizi Mhlongo is a beloved South African celebrity with a legion of loyal fans interested in what he does. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the star.
How much does Somizi earn?
The media star is paid varying salaries for his various gigs. As a judge on Idols South Africa, he received an estimated R200,000 monthly salary in 2022.
Is Somizi Mhlongo a millionaire?
The multi-talented entertainer is a millionaire as of 2024. His net worth is estimated to be $5 million (approx. R93 million).
Why is Somizi famous?
Somizi Mhlongo is a prominent South African figure who has achieved fame through a multi-faced career that spans several decades. He is a successful choreographer, presenter, actor, reality TV star, host, and businessman.
How old is Somizi Mhlongo now?
The all-round entertainer was born on December 23, 1972, in Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa. He is 51 years old as of 2024.
Source: UGC
Somizi Mhlongo's net worth can undoubtedly afford him the lifestyle he displays. He has been in the South African entertainment industry for over three decades, but his relevance has yet to fade.
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