In a triumphant achievement, the inaugural season of Love & Hip Hop South Africa has secured its first international award. The show was recently honored with the esteemed title of “Best International Show” at the 12th annual National Reality TV Awards, a prestigious event held in London, UK.
This remarkable victory is particularly noteworthy as Love & Hip Hop South Africa faced stiff competition from some of the globe’s most prominent shows, including Dr. Pimple Popper, Judge Steve Harvey, Bling Empire: New York, 90 Day Fiancé UK, Married At First Sight Australia, The Kardashians, and Love is Blind.
Debuting its premiere season in February 2023, Love & Hip Hop South Africa featured a star-studded lineup including Da L.E.S, Gigi Lamayne, Yanga Chief, Shane Eagle, DJ Speedsta, Fifi Cooper, Money Badoo, and J Molley. The cast’s exceptional performances played a pivotal role in the show’s success.
Ecstatic about their win, the cast members expressed their jubilation. Fifi Cooper conveyed gratitude to those who voted in their favor, highlighting the significance of Love & Hip Hop’s journey from its US origins to South Africa. She extended her appreciation to Paramount Africa for the opportunity and lauded the entire cast for their outstanding contributions.
For Gigi Lamayne, being part of Love & Hip Hop South Africa was a realization of a cherished aspiration, inspired by her admiration for the franchise’s iterations in various locations. She reflected on the grandeur of winning the esteemed title of “Best International Show” in 2023, affirming the ongoing prominence of hip-hop culture within South Africa’s creative landscape.
Opening up about personal struggles on the show, J Molley articulated the profound significance of their victory, especially as it aligned with the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. He commended the dedication of the team and the remarkable performances of the cast.
The inception of Love & Hip Hop South Africa is a testament to the enduring legacy of the American franchise, which made its way to Mzansi in celebration of hip-hop’s 50-year milestone. This cross-cultural exchange has not only brought recognition to the South African entertainment scene but also underscored the global appeal and significance of hip-hop as a cultural phenomenon.