Comedian and actor Trevor Gumbi may have been the first celebrity unmasked on Season 3 of The Masked Singer South Africa, but his performance left audiences with a memorable tribute to Johannesburg. The actor donned a Ponte Tower costume modelled after one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
Also see: The Masked Singer South Africa returns this July
Trevor Gumbi’s The Masked Singer SA costume becomes meaningful
Gumbi transformed one of the city’s most iconic buildings into a celebration of Jozi’s spirit, culture, and resilience. His performance of TKZee’s classic Dlala Mapantsula perfectly complemented the costume, creating a proudly South African moment that resonated with viewers.
TV UPDATE
Funnyman Trevor Gumbi is the first celebrity to drop his disguise on The Masked Singer South Africa Season 3.
With an illustrious career spanning stand-up comedy, television, writing and acting, Trevor Gumbi has become one of Mzansi’s most recognisable entertainment… pic.twitter.com/4Joj51T13M
— TV UPDATES (@blackmluja) July 6, 2026
The symbolic choice of Ponte Tower was far from random. Often regarded as an emblem of Johannesburg’s colourful history, reinvention, and energy, the costume paid homage to a city that has shaped countless stories and personalities, including Gumbi himself.
Trevor spoke to The Sowetan after his unmasking on the show, saying that he believes the Ponte Tower building deserves to be viewed with pride rather than the ‘dark’ reputation that is often attached to it.
Speaking on the TKZee song he chose, he said, “That the song is Johannesburg… it carries that spirit of hustle and movement that Joburg is known for.”
Trevor Gumbi has become one of Mzansi’s most recognisable entertainment personalities – until he used his comedic chops to touch the clouds in the spectacular new season of #TheMaskedSingerSA, now in its new home on SABC 2. https://t.co/fxGUnB3VPK pic.twitter.com/t7Cp81t09R
— More Than Food Magazine (@MoreThanFoodMag) July 5, 2026
Also see: Warren Masemola celebrates Masked Singer S2 win
Although his journey on the hit SABC 2 competition ended in the premiere episode, Gumbi described the experience as liberating. Performing anonymously allowed him to step onto the stage without preconceived expectations, giving him the freedom to entertain.
Season 3 of The Masked Singer South Africa will feature 16 celebrities competing behind elaborate costumes, with their identities remaining a mystery until elimination.
While Gumbi’s time in the competition was brief, his Jozi-inspired performance ensured his exit was as memorable as his entrance.
Also see: Dineo Ranaka on her journey as Diamond on ‘The Masked Singer’
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