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Meet the Makhenes: Letoya and family confront legacy and addiction in new reality show

Go behind the headlines as Letoya Makhene and her legendary father, Blondie Makhene, invite viewers into a deeply personal journey of healing, legacy, and the family’s private battle with addiction.

By Bulelwa Hoala

Meet the Makhenes: Letoya and family confront legacy and addiction in new reality show
Image: Supplied

One of South Africa’s most well-known families, the Makhenes, has landed a new reality TV show on Mzansi Magic set to air in April 2026.

Taking centre stage is former Generations: The Legacy star Letoya Makhene, whose journey anchors the show as she navigates stardom, motherhood and her spiritual calling.

Featured alongside Makhene will be her father, legendary South African musician Blondie Makhene, and her sisters Pauline and Gontse.

According to Mzansi Magic, the show will also highlight Gontse’s struggle with addiction and the family’s difficult reality of supporting her through it.

“This is not just another celebrity reality show. It is raw and deeply honest. We are opening up like never before and showing our family exactly as we are. There is nothing glossy or polished about it; it is real,” said Letoya.

“Real love, real pain and real life. I show up as my true, authentic self at a time when I had lost everything and reached my lowest point. That is where this story begins and that is why so many people will see themselves in it.”

Meet the cast of The Makhenes

Letoya Makhene

Actress, musician and healer, Letoya navigates fame, motherhood and personal growth while holding her family together and confronting past heartbreak.

Blondie Makhene

Legendary musician and activist, Blondie brings legacy and reflection to the series, connecting with his children as a friend and confronting the realities of his parenting.

Gogo Lily

The family’s emotional anchor, Gogo Lily offers stability, guidance and unconditional love, helping to keep the household grounded.

Pauline Makhene

The eldest daughter and caregiver, Pauline navigates past trauma, motherhood and family responsibilities while caring for her 103-year-old grandmother.

Gontse Makhene
The youngest sibling, Gontse’s struggle with addiction challenges the family and highlights the realities of tough love and support.

Nubia Mangezi

Letoya’s firstborn, Nubia is protective and outspoken, confronting unresolved feelings toward her mother and the impact it has had on their family dynamics.

Tadiwa Mangezi Jr
Quiet and loyal, Tadiwa Jr balances his basketball ambitions with the emotional impact of his parents’ separation.

Watch the trailer below:

The Makhenes premieres on Sunday, 12 April and will air every Sunday at 7PM.

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