Auditions for the upcoming season will start on 23 January this year (2022). Sources close to Idols SA have revealed that Unathi Nkayi will likely not return to Idols SA season 18 when Somizi Mhlongo returns. Nkayi might not be part of season 18 when the singing competition Idols SA returns this month (January). According to a City Press article, her break will coincide with the dramatic return of fan favourite Somizi Mhlongo who was not part of the competition last season.

The source stated that Nkayi will allegedly be forced to leave for similar reasons to those of Mhlongo. Nkayi was fired by Johannesburg radio station Kaya 959 back in November. The station confirmed she was fired following a verbal feud with her co-worker Sizwe Dhlomo. “Idols gave Somizi a break based on allegations of gender-based violence.” “Unathi was entangled in the allegations that she made against Sizwe which were found to be false.” “So she now has to be given a break from the show.” Also read: Breaking: Kaya 959 parts ways with ‘Idols SA’ judge Unathi Nkayi

The publication has also reported that Somizi Mhlongo is likely to return to the show this year after he was booted out last season. Mhlongo’s was booted due to the gender-based violence allegations that were made by his estranged husband – Mohale Motaung. “Somizi has been given the green light because he is obviously the life of the show.” “There was a huge difference when he was not on the show, in terms of declining viewership.” “So he will be making a return this season after he was given a break last year (2021) to sort out his personal issues.” Motaung accused Mhlongo of physically abusing him and Somizi denied the allegations but was taken off the air. Somizi also took a break from his Metro FM – The Bridge and also stopped participating as an ambassador of the popular sneaker brand – Bathu.