Khanyi to reveal secrets
Actress hosts show to get people reveal their dark secrets
Khanyi Mbau has transformed into an agony aunt.
The actress and former talk show host will be occupying the couch at The
Big Secret to get
South Africans confessing their deep, dark secrets.
The 13-part reality series, starting in October on
BET channel, will track the participants as they unburden themselves to Mbau and come clean with family, friends or lovers.
An in-house therapist will also be on standby to support the guests. Mbau, who has a controversial and colourful public past, said she jumped on the show because “it’s time to help others”.
As the queen of bling, Mbau has confessed to having been trapped in an abusive relationship for money and having had an adulterous affair, among other things. She said accepting her truths, however painful or embarrassing, liberated her.
“Secrets trap people and stop them from progressing with their lives. The show is a platform for those taking part to set themselves free and finally live the life they were destined to live. The Big Secret aims to build, not to damage, people’s lives,” she said in a statement. Speaking to Sowetan, Mbau said she was ready for The Big Secret. “Accepting my truth has given me a second chance in life. I looked at my life and found that accepting my flaws had made me stronger, and it’s time to help others.
“I meet participants not knowing who they are or what they are about. I know I’m not a therapist or a psychologist, but I’m a friend’s friend, a girl’s girl. I offer support.”
Mbau said she also relishes working with Monde Twala, vicepresident for BET, Youth and Music for Viacom Africa, who gave her a break at e.tv when he was still there with a talk show. Twala commented: “Khanyi has a wealth of life experience in interacting with different people from all walks of life, coupled with the challenges she’s faced in her own life as well. Her exposure to life and its challenges has shaped her sense of compassion and sensitivity.”