South Africa’s most iconic lifestyle show, Top Billing, is back. The show celebrated its triumphant return with a glamorous reunion at Tintswalo Atlantic in Hout Bay, bringing together past and present presenters, executives, and celebrities against the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
The evening marked a new chapter for Top Billing, which will air a Reunion Special on 27 November at 19h00 on S3, followed by weekly episodes from March 2026. The event was presented in partnership with Corona to celebrate 100 Years Under the Sun and spotlight the world’s most beautiful coastlines, including four South African beaches: Nature’s Valley, Kraal Baai, Boulders Beach and Camps Bay.
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Celebrating Legacy and Inspiration
For Themba Gwejela, Head of Corporate Affairs at SABC, the show’s return represents more than nostalgia. It is about listening to South African audiences. He explains, “This is about bringing people together. Top Billing has always allowed families to gather, celebrate our country and find inspiration in other people’s lives.”
Leadership in a high-pressure environment requires discipline, Gwejela adds. “I start my day at the gym with my trainer. It is not just exercise but a time for mental reflection. I pay attention to nutrition, exercise and being mindful. It helps me make better decisions.” He sees the show as a platform to inspire all generations, saying that the younger audience can still find aspiration in a program that speaks to values and achievement.
Discipline and Balance
Janez Vermeiren, who grew up in the spotlight as a Top Billing presenter, reflects on the personal drive required to succeed. “Being a father early taught me responsibility. Everything I did on screen, I did for my child. Discipline and showing up every day kept me grounded. Fitness has always been my salvation and stress relief. It is part of my lifestyle.”
Vermeiren believes that confidence comes from authenticity. “Self-confidence comes from believing in yourself. Do not be swayed by what others think. Build your own confidence and live authentically.” He adds that Top Billing’s stories should continue to inspire, highlighting people who succeed against the odds. “I love rags to riches stories. Stories of people overcoming circumstance and achieving greatness always motivate me.”
Harmony Katulondi echoes the value of showing up and excellence. “Top Billing shaped a generation of men by teaching that it is a privilege to be on that platform. Excellence is about doing your best, showing up, and being prepared. Confidence comes from preparation and belief in your own value,” he says.
Harmony also emphasises balance and structure. “My name means harmony. It is about balance. I track my routines, review my progress, and fix what needs fixing. Fitness, work, and family all require honesty and consistency.”
Health, Wellness, and Aspiration
Dr Fezile Mkhize combines medicine and media with a focus on health and consistency. “Balancing public life and medicine requires careful planning. Sleep, mental health and movement are priorities. I train six times a week and each session keeps me grounded both mentally and physically.”
Mkhize also redefines aspiration for today’s audience. “Aspiration is about improving yourself every day. Life is for the living. See what others are doing and let it inspire you to add layers to your own life.” He encourages men to prioritise preventative health. “At 40 or 45, start screenings like prostate checks. Early movement and nutrition make a difference for long-term health.”
A Modern Take on Lifestyle
Executive Producer Patience Stevens reflects on Top Billing’s evolution. “From a tiny edit suite to showcasing magnificent homes and the best of South African talent, the show has always inspired viewers to dream bigger.” Bradley van den Berg, COO at Cardova, emphasises digital growth. “The return is not just on TV. Social media and streaming platforms allow us to connect with audiences wherever they are.”
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Corona’s global centenary, 100 Years Under the Sun, aligns perfectly with Top Billing’s ethos. Melanie Nicholson, Head of Brand at Corona South Africa, says, “The partnership celebrates South Africa’s beauty, simplicity, and joy. Top Billing encourages reconnection and adventure.”
Dichaba Phalatse, Marketing Manager for SABC Video Entertainment, adds, “Top Billing remains a cultural touchstone. Its return shows that local storytelling can inspire on a global scale.”
As the sun set over Hout Bay, guests raised their glasses to a show that blends lifestyle, culture, wellness and aspiration. For South African men, Top Billing’s return is a reminder that inspiration, discipline and balance are timeless.
Broadcast Details: Top Billing Reunion Special airs 27 November at 19h00 on S3, with weekly episodes returning March 2026, also available on SABC Plus.
