You know how some celebrities just have that "it" factor that you can’t really explain? In South Africa, that factor has a name, and it's Bonang Matheba. Most people know her as "Queen B," a title she didn’t just stumble upon—she earned it through decades of being the most hardworking person in the room. But if you’re looking for the Queen B TV show, you might actually be looking for one of three very different things.
The term "Queen B" has become so synonymous with Bonang that her various reality ventures often get lumped together under that one umbrella. Whether it’s the glitzy chaos of Being Bonang, the high-stakes world of Young, Famous & African, or her newest venture B’dazzled, the fascination remains the same. People want to see the "Champagne Darling" in her natural habitat.
Honestly, the reality TV landscape in Mzansi wouldn’t be half as interesting without her. She’s the blueprint.
The Reality of Being Bonang
When people talk about the Queen B TV show, they are usually reminiscing about Being Bonang. It premiered back in 2017 on 1Magic and ran for three seasons, giving us some of the most quotable internet moments of the decade. "Give the people what they want!" became a national anthem.
The show wasn't just about expensive shoes and red carpets. It was a look at the machinery behind the brand. We saw her navigate the launch of her MCC, House of BNG, and deal with the very real pressures of being a woman in a male-dominated business world. But, as with all good things, it had to end. Bonang famously tweeted that season three was the end of the road, citing some behind-the-scenes drama with the production house.
💡 You might also like: Disney Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail: Is the New York Botanical Garden Event Worth Your Money?
It left a massive void. Fans were used to their weekly dose of "Mo’ghel," and suddenly, the Queen was off the air.
The B'dazzled Evolution
Fast forward to late 2024 and early 2025, and the Queen B TV show vibe has returned in a new form: B’dazzled by Bonang. This isn't just a rehash of her old show. This is a six-part series on S3 (SABC 3) that feels much more like a business masterclass wrapped in a silk Versace robe.
Interestingly, B’dazzled actually started as a YouTube series way back in 2011. It was one of the first times a South African celeb realized they didn't need a traditional broadcaster to reach their fans. The 2024/2025 television version is a co-production between Bonang Matheba Entertainment and Cake Media.
What makes this iteration different?
📖 Related: Diego Klattenhoff Movies and TV Shows: Why He’s the Best Actor You Keep Forgetting You Know
- It focuses heavily on her role as a mogul, not just a socialite.
- We see the grit behind the L’Oréal and Steve Madden collaborations.
- It’s less about the "party" and more about the "power."
It's a bit more mature. You can tell she’s in a different headspace now. She’s not just trying to be famous; she’s trying to build a legacy that lasts long after the cameras stop rolling.
Why We Are Still Obsessed
There’s a reason why search terms for the Queen B TV show still spike every time she posts a photo. It’s the aspirational nature of her life. In a country with a lot of heavy news, Bonang is a bright, shiny distraction that feels attainable if you just "work, work, work," as she often says.
But let’s be real—it’s also the drama. Even when she joined the cast of Netflix’s Young, Famous & African in season two, she was the focal point. Even though her stint was short and ended with a bit of a clash with other cast members, she dominated the conversation.
That’s the "Queen B" effect. You don't even have to be on screen for the whole season to be the star of the show.
👉 See also: Did Mac Miller Like Donald Trump? What Really Happened Between the Rapper and the President
What Most People Get Wrong
There is a common misconception that these shows are 100% unscripted. Look, any expert in entertainment will tell you that "reality" is a loose term. In Being Bonang or B’dazzled, there are story beats. There are light setups. There are "re-shoots" of conversations.
However, Bonang’s personality is what keeps it authentic. You can’t fake that level of charisma. When she’s annoyed, you see it in her eyes. When she’s genuinely excited about a new vintage of House of BNG, that passion is real.
Another mistake? Thinking she only does reality TV. Bonang’s resume is actually built on live broadcasting. She cut her teeth on LIVE (now Live Amp) and Top Billing. That’s where the "professional" Queen B was born. The reality shows are just the garnish.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Creators
If you're watching the Queen B TV show (whichever version you prefer) and wondering how to apply that energy to your own life or content, here are a few takeaways:
- Own Your Narrative: Bonang moved from YouTube to DStv, then to Netflix, and then back to SABC on her own terms. She owns her production company. If you’re a creator, ownership is the only way to ensure your brand doesn't get diluted.
- Quality Over Quantity: Notice how she disappears for a year or two? She doesn't over-saturate the market. When she returns, it’s an event.
- Diversify the "Show": The TV show is just a commercial for the products. The real money is in the wine, the endorsements, and the business ventures.
The era of the "IT Girl" might be evolving into the era of the "Mogul," but one thing is for sure: the Queen B TV show in all its forms isn't going anywhere as long as Bonang Matheba is holding the remote.