Relebogile Mabotja Returns to Screens with Powerful New Role
A Triumphant On-Screen Return
After two decades of shaping South Africa’s media and entertainment industry behind the scenes and in front of the mic, Relebogile Mabotja is making a bold return to television. On Tuesday, 24 June 2025, she steps back in front of the camera as host and associate producer of Untied, a new Showmax Original that confronts the complex, emotional terrain of divorce.
A Showmax Original That Dares to Go Deeper
Produced by GOAT—the team behind hit shows Unfollowed and The Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip – South Africa—Untied is not your typical reality series. The show unpacks real-life stories of some of South Africa’s most recognisable women, who courageously open up about the often-hidden realities of heartbreak, betrayal, loss, and reinvention.
Mabotja’s Legacy of Meaningful Conversation Continues
Known for her powerful presence on Unpacked with Relebogile Mabotja and 702 Afternoons, Mabotja has built a career rooted in authenticity and depth. With Untied, she continues this legacy, contributing as both host and associate producer. “It just made sense to join the producing team too. The universe aligned,” she shares.
A Star-Studded Line-Up of Brave Storytellers
The series premieres with businesswoman Norma Gigaba, whose public marital drama captured national attention. Other featured women include reality stars Beverly Steyn and Nonku Williams, actresses Dawn Thandeka King, Mona Monyane and Palesa Madisakwane, media legend Zandi Nhlapo, and model-turned-activist Sonia Booth.
Stories That Heal, Not Harm
With narratives ranging from infidelity and abuse to grief and self-discovery, Untied offers a space for vulnerability and healing. “There’s a moment that absolutely broke me. It was a story of losing a child. As a mother, I couldn’t hold back the tears,” Mabotja recalls.
A Show That Challenges Societal Norms
“This is not gossip TV,” she asserts. Untied challenges outdated ideas of womanhood and worth, particularly the notion that a woman’s value lies in her ability to keep a man. Instead, the show centres healing, dignity, and unfiltered truth-telling.
A Media Powerhouse with Purpose
From producing Miss South Africa and The SAFTAs to Tyla’s Showmax Homecoming Concert and the upcoming Shaka Ilembe Gold Carpet Experience, Mabotja’s fingerprints are on some of South Africa’s most iconic productions. She’s also a passionate advocate for mental health, gender equity, and women’s rights.
More Than Awards—A Mission
With honours including a SAFTA, Mail & Guardian Top 200 recognition, and the Africa Woman Leaders Award, Mabotja’s career is defined by intentionality, not just accolades. Untied is her latest offering in a journey marked by storytelling with impact.
A Call for Empathy
“I hope viewers walk away more empathetic,” she says. “Not just to the women on this show, but to their partners, their friends, their sisters, and most importantly, to themselves.”
Premiere Date
Untied premieres on Showmax on Tuesday, 24 June 2025. Stay connected with Relebogile Mabotja online for updates and behind-the-scenes insights.