Travel content creator and social media personality Popi Sibiya has stepped out from behind one of the most memorable costumes on The Masked Singer South Africa season three.
During the latest episode of the hit competition, viewers discovered that she was the celebrity hidden inside the colourful Pap & Wors outfit, surprising both fans and the celebrity detectives.
Her identity remained a complete mystery throughout the performance, with none of the panelists managing to correctly identify her before the big reveal.
Detectives Missed Every Clue
Leading up to the unmasking, the show offered several hints about Pap & Wors’ identity.
The character explained that she was one of four siblings and revealed that her birth name translates to “completeness.” She also reflected on taking time to discover her purpose in life.
Her performance of Destiny’s Child’s classic Say My Name encouraged the detectives to make several bold guesses.
Sithelo Shozi became convinced the clues pointed to actress Farieda Metsileng, while J’Something considered both Masasa Mbangeni and Ayanda Thabethe because of references to academic achievements.
Somizi, meanwhile, followed his instinct and suggested Anele Zondo.
Despite their confidence, every prediction proved incorrect when Popi Sibiya was finally revealed.
Popi Says the Costume Was the Highlight
Reflecting on her experience, Popi admitted that wearing the Pap & Wors costume was one of the most enjoyable parts of participating in the competition.
She described the outfit as playful, humorous and unlike anything previously seen on the show.
According to her, its quirky design made it easy for audiences to connect with the character while allowing her to fully embrace the fun side of the competition.
Behind-the-Scenes Secrecy Left Her Impressed
While the performances entertained viewers, Popi said she was equally amazed by the production team’s commitment to protecting contestants’ identities.
She explained that strict security measures were enforced throughout filming.
Contestants travelled in vehicles with tinted windows, wore black clothing with hoodies and masks, and had very limited interaction with others on set.
These precautions ensured that nobody could accidentally discover who was behind each costume before the official reveal.
According to Popi, maintaining that level of secrecy is one of the key ingredients that makes the show so exciting.
Fans Couldn’t Believe She Kept It Hidden
Known for documenting her adventures across Africa in real time, Popi has built a reputation for sharing nearly every aspect of her life with her followers. That openness made her appearance on The Masked Singer SA even more surprising.
She said many of her supporters were stunned that she had managed to keep such a major project secret for so long. While they were disappointed to see her eliminated early, they also celebrated her willingness to step outside her comfort zone and try something completely different.
An Elephant Would Have Been Her Dream Costume
Popi’s extensive travels across the African continent have inspired much of her content, so she was asked what costume she would have chosen if she could design one herself.
Without hesitation, she selected an elephant.
She explained that she has spent years hoping to encounter wild, free-roaming elephants during visits to destinations such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and other parts of Africa.
Although she joked that choosing such a costume might have made her identity easier to guess, she admitted it would have reflected her passion for wildlife and exploration.
Happy the Judges Never Solved the Mystery
Looking back at the detectives’ guesses, Popi confessed she thoroughly enjoyed watching them head in the wrong direction.
There was one moment when Sithelo sounded so convinced that she feared her cover was about to be blown.
Instead, the detective named someone completely unrelated, allowing Popi’s secret to remain intact until the official unmasking.
For Popi, seeing the panel confidently make incorrect guesses added another layer of entertainment to an already unforgettable experience on The Masked Singer South Africa.
