Homba Mazaleni has officially made her debut as a presenter on S3’s popular lifestyle show Top Billing, but her first appearance has sparked mixed reactions among viewers, particularly regarding her styling.
Also see: Homba Mazaleni has the internet celebrating after ‘Top Billing Presenter Search’ 2026 win
The presenter, who won the 2026 Top Billing Presenter Search, was welcomed to the show with excitement as she took on her first hosting assignment.
The show’s social media platforms celebrated the milestone, sharing an announcement that read:
“She did it! And now she’s hosting Top Billing! We’re so excited to welcome Homba as she hosts her very first episode of Top Billing tonight! Tune in now on S3 and show Homba some love!”
However, while many viewers celebrated her achievement, others questioned the styling choices for her debut, with some arguing that the look did not reflect her personality.
SHE DID IT! AND NOW SHE’S HOSTING TOP BILLING!
We’re SO excited to welcome Homba as she hosts her very first episode of #TopBilling TONIGHT!
Tune in NOW on S3 and show Homba some love!
#TopBillingPresenterSearch https://t.co/Ibm0fkTwId
— Topbilling (@SABC3Topbilling) November 5, 2026
Also see: Homba Mazaleni celebrates her ‘Top Billing’ Presenter Search win
Viewers question Homba Mazaleni’s styling
One viewer expressed concern that the presenter was not being allowed to showcase her authentic personal style, suggesting that the production team should give her more freedom when it comes to choosing her outfits.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela wrote:
“This is not Homba’s style. You hired her because the people liked her for who she is. Don’t do this to her. Let her pick her clothes and collaborate with the stylist.
“She is Homba and the audience likes her as Homba, not some producer’s idea of who she must be.”
Haai guys.
This is not Homba’s style.
You hired her because the people liked her for who she is.
Don’t do this to her.
Let her pick her clothes and collaborate with the stylist.
She is Homba and the audience like her as Homba, not some producer’s idea of who she must be. ❤️
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) November 5, 2026
The comment sparked conversation about the importance of allowing presenters to maintain their individuality, especially when audiences have already connected with them because of their personalities.
For some viewers, Homba’s appeal lies in her authenticity, and they would like to see that reflected in her appearance on the show.
A new chapter for Homba Mazaleni
Despite the styling criticism, Homba’s debut marks an exciting career milestone following her victory in the Top Billing Presenter Search 2026.
The Gonubie-born presenter from the Eastern Cape was announced as the competition’s winner, earning herself a place on one of South Africa’s best-known lifestyle television programmes.
Her appointment has also attracted attention because her sister, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, previously held the Miss South Africa 2025 title.
As Homba begins this new chapter, viewers will be watching to see how she settles into her presenting role and brings her personality to the iconic programme.
Featured images: Instagram/@homba_mazaleni
Also see: Homba Mazaleni inspires audiences to embrace their unique accents
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