Star search
The hunt for the country’s next big superstar has begun with the new season of SA’s Got Talent.
Jamie Bartlett (left) and Tol Ass Mo are looking for talented locals on SA’s Got Talent. Season 7 Sundays (from 4 September) e.tv (*194) 18:05
SA’s Got Talent (2009- current), the reality TV show that celebrates talents of every kind, is back for another instalment and viewers are about to be amazed by what South Africa has in store… for the seventh time. After last season’s controversial winner DJ Arch Junior (4) made headlines for his debatable talent [if it was actually him making the music], this season of SA’s Got Talent (SAGT) has new talent itself. Jamie Bartlett joins as a judge alongside Shado Twala and DJ Fresh, replacing Lalla Hirayama, and Tol Ass Mo plays host after fellow comedian Tats Nkonzo’s exit at the end Shado Twala. DJ Fresh. of last season. As SAGT newbies, Jamie and Mo have travelled SA in search of the show’s next winner and can’t wait for something they’re both experiencing for the very first time – live TV.
JAMIE (50)
How did you go from David Genaro (on Rhythm City, 2007-current) to Jamie the judge? I was hesitant to take the job and had to think long and hard about it. I’m used to hiding behind characters and masks and some of the episodes [on SAGT] are live, so I was worried because I’ve never done that before. I called my dad and he convinced me and told me that I’m brave enough to overcome any fear I had. [David was offscreen while Jamie was travelling around SA filming SAGT, which is how Jamie is able to be on both shows at the same time]. And how has it been so far? I’m on the streets of Joburg everyday, so I talk to millions of people and take photos with them. I know people, so seeing them coming onto the stage is great. That’s the power of SA’s Got Talent; the backstory and the richness of it. SA makes golden reality TV and the format is so rich and emotive. How have you adjusted to your first nonacting gig? I’ve been advised quite a lot by my fellow judges . From the get-go, I’m looking at every act thinking, “Is this one worth the R500 000 [prize]?” I’m a classically trained actor, so I’m doing well with cues. What are you looking for in a winner? A unique, singular act that moves me inside. I need to see a genuine skill that has been polished and worked hard at. Are you the nice, neutral or nasty judge? I say “no” a lot more, but not because I’m trying to play a role. I have high standards, for myself and what I do.
TOL ASS MO (30)
What drew you to hosting SA’s Got Talent? I’ve been part of the e.tv family for a while, so after they called me up for a screen test, they fell in love with my character. Niche talent inspires me. Plus, I’ve never done live TV before. How has the SAGT experience been for you with the judges? It’s been a great learning experience. I am working with legends. Jamie’s a thespian, Fresh is a world-renowned DJ and mam’Shado has been in the system since before black people were allowed. Any stand-out acts so far? The little kids – they’re so cute and do the most amazing things. It’s cool how parents are able to cultivate their kids’ talent. Where do you think the next winner is going to come from? I’m for everyone. I’m a viewer, even though I’m on the show. I’ve been impressed by a few acts so far, but it’s hard to tell yet. And what talent would you show if you weren’t hosting? I’d be a human silhouette in a fake sumo wrestler suit with a tutu and a hula hoop randomly dancing about on stage. I’m bringing some of that Tol Ass Mo flavour to the mix.