Helen Zille, the former leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and a well-known political figure, is about to take center stage in a whole new way.
At 74 years old, the seasoned politician will soon experience a different kind of pressure: the roasting spotlight in Showmax’s upcoming comedy special.
From Political Power to Comedy Roast
This time, it’s not about debates and policies but about sharp-witted jokes and good-natured fun.
Helen Zille is set to join a list of celebrities who’ve undergone the hilarious and often brutal experience of the Showmax Roast.
Previous roastees include stars like Minnie Dlamini, Khanyi Mbau, Pearl Thusi, Steve Hofmeyr, and the late AKA, who all survived the comedic barbs thrown at them by fellow famous faces.
The Roast Announcement
Helen Zille herself shared the news this week in a playful and self-aware way.
In a social media post, she revealed that she will be featured in the next Showmax Roast, which is scheduled to take place during the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival.
The festival will run from May 2 to May 4 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Zille embraced her role with humor, starring in a skit promoting the event where she took on the persona of “GodZille,” a firefighter racing to extinguish flames.
This clever ad poked fun at Zille’s reputation for being quick-witted on social media, particularly on the X app, where her sharp comments often spark heated discussions.
Helen Zille’s Take on the Roast
Zille’s approach to this opportunity is as bold as ever.
She acknowledges that she’s been roasted plenty on social media and in the press, so why not take it to the stage? “If people are going to laugh, I’d rather join them,” she said.
“I can dish it out as much as I take it, all under the umbrella of fun and banter.” Her confidence suggests that this will be a roast worth watching, with plenty of laughs and unexpected moments.
What to Expect from the Roast
While Showmax hasn’t yet revealed an exact premiere date, the streaming service promises viewers plenty of wild moments and memorable comebacks. “Nothing is off the table,” Showmax teased, suggesting that the panel of celebrities roasting Helen Zille will bring unfiltered truths and plenty of punchlines.
Zille’s Previous Showmax Appearance
Helen Zille is no stranger to Showmax’s productions. Last year, she sat in a very different kind of hot seat during her appearance on the talk show Die Tollie & Manila Show.
Like all guests on the show, she had to undergo a drag transformation, and as she shared, it was a bit of a shock.
“It was terrifying to see myself like that!” she admitted.
But in typical Helen fashion, she encouraged viewers to try new things: “I think you should always try something once.”
Looking Ahead: Will You Tune In?
As Helen Zille gears up for her big roast, many are wondering if this unique experience will be one to remember.
Will you be tuning in to watch Helen face the flames? Let us know by leaving a comment or sharing your thoughts via WhatsApp.