Khanyisile Mbau’s Journey from Muvhango to Business Mogul and Amapiano Star
Khanyisile Mbau, popularly known as Khanyi Mbau, is a South African actress, media personality, businesswoman, and musician. She rose to fame in 2004 when she replaced Lindiwe Chibi as Doobsie in the SABC 2 soap opera Muvhango. Over the years, Mbau has cemented her status as one of Mzansi’s most influential figures, starring in top TV shows, launching her own businesses, and becoming a socialite known for her glamorous lifestyle.
Early Life and Background
Khanyi Mbau was born on October 16, 1985, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Her mother, Lynette Sisi Mbau, worked in the finance sector, while her father, Menzi Mcunu, was not actively involved in her upbringing. Raised by her grandparents in Soweto, Khanyi was exposed to a Westernized lifestyle that influenced her perspective on life and fashion. She attended an all-white school, which further shaped her worldview.
Career Breakthrough and Television Success
Mbau’s big break came in 2004 when she joined Muvhango, but her tenure was short-lived due to her extravagant lifestyle, which garnered tabloid attention. She later starred in Mzansi (SABC 1) and After Nine, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
In 2013, Mbau launched her own talk show, Katch It With Khanyi, and in 2018, she played the lead role in Abomama, a drama series that quickly became one of the most-watched shows on DStv. She has also hosted popular shows such as The Scoop (SABC 3) and The Big Secret (BET Africa).
Venturing into Film and Music
Mbau made her film debut in Happiness is a Four-letter Word (2016), which grossed over R10 million at the box office. She also starred in Frank and Fearless (2018) and The Red Room (2019).
In addition to acting, Khanyi explored music, making waves in the Amapiano genre with hits like Shiya Indoda eDubai. Her music career continues to grow as she collaborates with top producers.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Beyond entertainment, Khanyi Mbau is a savvy businesswoman. In 2018, she launched I Am Khanyi – Millennial Shimmer Gin, adding to her growing empire. She has also endorsed luxury brands and remains a sought-after influencer in South Africa.
Personal Life and Public Image
Mbau’s personal life has been as eventful as her career. She was previously married to businessman Mandla Mthembu, with whom she shares a daughter. She later dated construction mogul Theunis Crous and musician Tebogo Lerole. Known for her love of luxury, she has often been labelled a “queen of bling” in South Africa’s entertainment industry.
Khanyi Mbau’s journey from a young actress to a business mogul and musician is a testament to her resilience and ability to reinvent herself. Whether on TV, in business, or in music, she continues to captivate audiences and shape South African pop culture.
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