Zulu Mkhathini and Pamela Mtanga are ready to give viewers a front-row seat to celebrity life, fashion, music and all things Mzansi
Mzansi, your weekend plans just got a little more glamorous!
Mzansi Magic is bringing viewers a fresh dose of glitz, culture and celebrity tea with its brand-new magazine and lifestyle show, VIP Lounge, premiering on Friday, 2 October 2026 at 21:00 on DStv Channel 161.
Hosted by media personalities Zulu Mkhathini and Pamela Mtanga, the show promises to take viewers beyond the red carpets and Instagram posts and into the real spaces where Mzansi’s biggest names live, work and create.
And yes, you can finally enter the VIP section without worrying about your bank balance. We love to see it!
Welcome to the VIP life
VIP Lounge will shine the spotlight on Black South African excellence, covering everything from television and film to fashion, music, art, culture, lifestyle and current affairs.
The show will explore the inspiring stories behind some of the people shaping modern Mzansi, while also keeping an eye on global trends and celebrating how South Africans are making their own mark.
Think of it as your all-access pass to the people and places everyone is talking about.
From celebrity homes to exclusive events, the show promises plenty of behind-the-scenes moments that viewers don't normally get to see.
From telenovela sets to celebrity homes
Ever watched a telenovela and wondered what actually happens when the cameras stop rolling?
Well, VIP Lounge is taking viewers behind the scenes to see how some of Mzansi's favourite television shows come together.
Viewers will also get the chance to know their favourite stars on a more personal level, with the show stepping inside their homes and spaces.
Basically, the days of wondering, “But what does this celebrity's house actually look like?” are over.
Fashion, music and a little bit of FOMO
Fashion lovers are also getting their moment.
VIP Lounge will spend time with some of South Africa's hottest designers, unpacking the latest looks and trends while taking viewers into some of the country's biggest and most exclusive events.
The show will also get up close and personal with some of Mzansi's biggest musicians.
From their creative journeys to the lifestyles behind the music, viewers can expect a closer look at the stars who keep our playlists busy.
Zulu Mkhathini is back on screen
For Zulu Mkhathini, joining VIP Lounge is an opportunity to celebrate the people and stories that make South Africa special.
Zulu also shared his excitement about working alongside Pamela Mtanga, describing her as a “super talented” co-host.
Pamela Mtanga returns to television
Pamela Mtanga is equally excited to make her television comeback after a few years away from the small screen.
She added that she has always wanted to be part of television that feels current, fun and connected to what is happening in Mzansi.
And judging by her excitement about working with Zulu, it sounds like viewers can expect plenty of personality from the hosting duo.
VIP Lounge has some big-name backing
The new show is an advertiser-funded production sponsored by Rémy Martin and Glenfiddich, both part of the Edward Snell & Co. portfolio, as well as Sportingbet.
Edward Snell & Co. said the brands were proud to be associated with a show celebrating South African talent, ambition and culture.
Sportingbet also welcomed the partnership, describing VIP Lounge as a premium lifestyle platform that aligns with its entertainment offering.
Produced by Homebrew Films, VIP Lounge is positioning itself as the ultimate guide to Mzansi's entertainment and lifestyle scene.
So, if you're looking for somewhere to spend your Friday night, you might want to leave the remote nearby.
VIP Lounge premieres on Friday, 2 October 2026 at 21:00 on DStv Channel 161.