LaConco Takes the Reins as Utatakho Returns After Six-Year Hiatus
Johannesburg, South Africa – Popular DStv reality show Utatakho is set to make a comeback after a six-year break, with a surprising change at the helm. The show, which tackles sensitive issues of paternity and family disputes, will premiere its new season on Mzansi Wethu (channel 163) on 26 January, featuring the well-known media personality Nonkanyiso "LaConco" Conco as the new host.
Utatakho explores the complexities of paternity in South Africa, a country where fatherlessness often leads to family conflicts and identity issues. The show follows guests as they seek to uncover the truth about their origins, often with emotionally charged results. While some find the fathers they hoped for, others face the reality of not being biologically related to the alleged father.
LaConco steps into the role previously held by Nimrod Nkosi, who hosted the show for eight seasons, taking over from Bonginkosi “Zola” Dlamini in season 1 and remaining until the end of season 8 in 2020. This marks a significant moment for the show, as LaConco becomes Utatakho's first female host.
Recastings are a common occurrence in the entertainment industry, and South Africa is no exception. In 2017, Nomsa Buthelezi, known as the "Gomora Diva," replaced Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo on Mzansi Magic's Our Perfect Wedding. The announcement of Mdoda-Nxumalo's departure prompted an outpouring of grief from fans on social media, while Buthelezi's established presence on SABC1's Abomzala and in theatre productions made her a familiar face to viewers.
Another notable example is Khanyi Mbau's replacement of the late Lindiwe Chibi as Doobsie on the SABC2 drama Muvhango in 2005. However, this recast was met with mixed reactions, as some viewers felt that Mbau's portrayal of Doobsie differed significantly from Chibi's beloved interpretation of the character.
According to drama school lecturers, audiences sometimes reject recasts for various reasons, including loyalty to the previous artist, the length of time the previous artist held the role, differing interpretations of the role, and a general fear of change.
Given LaConco's established career and popularity as the host of The Real Housewives of Durban and Forever Thina, viewers are likely to embrace her in her new role. She is no stranger to dealing with complicated family dynamics on television, having hosted Ingane Yam on Mzansi Magic in 2020. That emotive programme featured parents revealing "secret" children from previous relationships to their spouses and families on national TV.
It will be interesting to see how LaConco brings her unique personality and feminine perspective to Utatakho. The show airs on DStv channel 163 on Mondays at 7pm.
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