Annie Mthembu, one of the most celebrated original cast members from The Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD), is making a dazzling comeback to reality television. The glamorous entrepreneur and fan favorite is set to star in the highly anticipated pan-African spin-off, The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa, which promises to blend style, luxury, and sisterhood in an unforgettable journey across continents.
The new series, premiering on Showmax on November 28, will see some of Africa’s most iconic housewives embark on an opulent adventure in Brazil. Joining Mthembu are fellow South African personalities Angel Ndlela, Jojo Robinson, Evodia Mogase, and Christall Kay, alongside stars from Nigeria and Kenya, in what producers have described as “the most glamorous girls’ trip ever seen on African television.”
For Annie Mthembu, this project marks not just a return to the screen but a reintroduction of herself to fans after a period of reflection and personal transformation. Speaking exclusively about her decision to return, she revealed that the break she took from television was both necessary and transformative.
“I took that time away to protect my inner peace and to focus on some serious self-work,” Annie Mthembu shared candidly. “Now, I am approaching this experience from a position of strength, not survival. My mental and spiritual state is completely renewed, and I’m excited for people to see the woman I’ve become.”
The Real Housewives alum described her comeback as a deeply intentional move — not one driven by fame or fanfare, but by growth and authenticity. She said the hiatus gave her the opportunity to realign with her values, rediscover her passions, and prepare herself mentally for a return to the sometimes chaotic, always unpredictable world of reality television.
“The energy of reality TV is something unique,” she laughed. “Once you’ve experienced it, it’s hard not to miss the excitement — the spontaneity, the laughter, the unexpected twists. It’s a world full of surprises, and that’s what makes it so thrilling.”
Annie Mthembu Returns to Reality TV in ‘The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa’
This new chapter in her reality TV journey, however, comes with a more grounded mindset. Annie Mthembu explained that she joined Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa with one clear mission — to stay true to herself and to represent Durban with grace, pride, and a touch of her signature sass.
“My intention was simple: to come in with an open heart, to have fun, and to represent Durban with authenticity,” she said. “I wasn’t there to chase drama or stir conflict. But at the same time, I promised myself that I wouldn’t dim my light or stay silent when it mattered. I’ve learned that being real doesn’t mean being rude — it means being honest and standing in your truth.”
Her refreshed approach to reality television has also shaped how she interacted with her castmates. Annie Mthembu described the filming experience as surprisingly uplifting, emphasizing the strong bonds and deep sense of sisterhood that developed among the women.
“I formed some wonderful friendships,” she revealed warmly. “These are incredible, relatable women who brought their own powerful stories to the table. There was a genuine spirit of unity and laughter, and that reminded me that women — no matter where we come from — can support one another and still have an amazing time.”
The show’s premise — bringing together women from different African countries for a luxurious escape — is designed to celebrate both diversity and connection. For Annie Mthembu, the experience of sharing her journey alongside accomplished women from across the continent was empowering and eye-opening.
“It was truly special to exchange experiences and perspectives with women who have lived such different lives, yet share similar passions and challenges,” she reflected. “We celebrated our similarities, learned from our differences, and laughed — a lot. It was a reminder that African women are strong, vibrant, and unstoppable.”
Beyond the glitz and glamour, The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa promises to offer audiences a rare look into the genuine lives and personalities of its stars — unfiltered, emotional, and authentic. For Annie Mthembu, that’s exactly what makes the show worth watching.
“What people will see is not just the designer dresses and exotic locations, but the heart behind each woman’s story,” she said. “I think viewers will connect with the vulnerability, the humor, and the strength that come out when women come together in a space that celebrates them.”
As she prepares for her grand return, Annie Mthembu radiates confidence and gratitude, embracing both the glamour and the growth that come with being back in the spotlight. Her fans can expect a more grounded, evolved version of the woman they came to love on RHOD — one who’s ready to shine brighter than ever before.
“I’m walking into this experience with joy and confidence,” she concluded. “This time, I’m not proving anything to anyone — I’m simply living my truth.”
Source- iHarare
