Funny gal Morake back to host wedding reality series
WE DON’T know if it was the popular demand or just the viewership numbers, but Mzansi Magic did the right thing by bringing back Tumi Morake to host Our Perfect Wedding.
The comedienne took over Aya Mpama’s responsibilities from yesterday’s episode. Looking at that episode alone, everything is back to what it should be. Mpama was introduced as the host of the fifth season, but did not get great reviews. It was obvious that she had great shoes to fill after Morake did not return. The viewers were quick to point out that they preferred Morake’s energy.
There is nothing wrong with Mpama, as a person, but when it comes to signature shows like Our Perfect Wedding, which brings South Africa to a standstill every Sunday evening, it is important to find out and keep what the people want. Mpama’s bubbly personality was not enough to hold the show and, in some cases, she clearly showed that she was attempting to be funny. We know her as sweet and not funny so when she flirted with what she thought was hilarious, sometimes it came across as corny.
The show’s previous presenters included Brenda Ngxoli who, just like Morake, had the viewers in stitches from the first take. She is genuinely funny and you have to wonder why she has never tried comedy professionally. Mpama is more like Phumeza Mdabe, who was on the third season. She suffered the same fate that Mpama is going through because Ngxoli had set the pace in the second season.
We are not saying we need buffoonery on the show, but the host has to be five steps ahead of the viewer. They have to think and say what we will only think a few seconds later. A host directs the eye, points out that which is not obvious and opens avenues for further discussion. Be it verbal or otherwise, Morake has mastered the art of prying for the ultimate story in each episode. She does it respectfully as well, keeping in mind that these weddings are actually real people’s lives.
A new face might be brought in for the sixth season which will air next year, but the same rules will apply. Given that they are going with female presenters, it will be hard to find the right person after Morake. Then again, she is extremely busy with other gigs and might not have the time to do these stories.
Should they decide to go with another host then names like Kuli Roberts, Khanyi Mbau and Dineo Ranaka might just keep things interesting. Whomever they go with, we don’t need another dull season.
every Sunday on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) at 7pm.