Somizi Mhlongo finds himself at the centre of growing public debate after public broadcaster SABC announced that Metro FM’s iconic relationship segment, Ask a Man, is officially expanding to television on S3. The show is set to premiere on 2 November 2026.
Also see: Somizi and Naked DJ welcome 3rd host for ‘Ask A Man’ TV adaptation
Starring Mhlongo alongside radio veteran Quinton ‘Naked DJ’ Masina and comedian Vafa Naraghi, the television adaptation promises to bring the country’s most talked-about romantic dilemmas to prime-time screens.
However, the announcement has triggered a wave of swift backlash online, as viewers question the show’s concept, casting choices, and fit for the channel.
Mzansi reacts to S3’s Ask a Man television pitch
The public reaction across social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) was immediate and overwhelmingly critical. A primary driver of viewer frustration centres around the choice of hosting talent, particularly given Somizi’s polarising public profile and past legal controversies.
Several commentators openly voiced fatigue regarding his continuous dominance on television screens, with one user asking how he continues to secure major broadcast gigs given his controversial history, while another bluntly stated they would refrain from watching solely due to his involvement.
Also see: Somizi Mhlongo reflects on what he’s learned from his previous marriage
Beyond casting grievances, audiences have expressed disappointment over what they perceive as a shift away from high-end programming on S3, a channel historically celebrated for flagship productions like Top Billing.
Critics online accused the public broadcaster of lowering its editorial standards, comparing the upcoming relationship format to tabloid-style reality programming seen on channels like Moja Love.
Disgruntled viewers pointed out that national television should prioritise empowering content, such as entrepreneurship and job creation, rather than sensationalising relationship drama during prime-time hours.
@TvblogbyMLU @Aaron_JamesZA We demand better shows … ask entrepreneur , create employment . Ask a man what actually ?
Reason other races laugh at Blackness coz we got access to empower but we empower entertainment than generational wealth
— Cedsilo macee (@Cedsilo05) October 16, 2026
Sociological and media perspectives on reality television
Media researchers and cultural analysts frequently highlight the complex role that sensational or tabloid-style relationship broadcasting plays in society.
Academic studies published by the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) Media Studies department note that while reality television and advice-based programming generate massive viewer engagement and ad revenue, they often blur the line between public interest and cheap sensationalism.
Furthermore, psychological frameworks supported by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) note that while peer-led advice shows offer community catharsis, relationship guidance presented on large public platforms often lacks professional therapeutic grounding.
Research highlighted by the University of Oxford Department of Sociology similarly indicates that audiences increasingly expect public broadcasters to balance entertaining lifestyle programming with uplifting, educational media that fosters long-term societal growth.
Looking ahead to the November premiere
Despite vocal backlash online, SABC and S3 are going ahead with the premiere of Ask a Man, maintaining that the series will offer real, relatable conversations that reflect the modern South African romantic landscape. Whether the broadcast can win over sceptical viewers or whether the online boycott will impact its viewership ratings remains to be seen.
Featured image: Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape
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