Young, Famous & African is Netflix’s first African reality series, offering an exclusive look into the lives of some of the continent’s most famous and influential celebrities. The show blends luxury, fame, and drama as a group of high-profile African stars navigate friendships, rivalries, and romance — all under the glare of the spotlight.
Season 3 has shaken things up with new cast members, surprise exits, and explosive storylines that have left fans talking. Some familiar faces have returned, while others have stepped away, making this season one of the most unpredictable yet.
Curious about who’s still in the game, who’s made their exit, and what drama is unfolding onscreen? This guide has everything you need to know about the Young, Famous & African cast — your ultimate breakdown of the stars, scandals, and what’s coming next.
You can also check out who we at Zikoko would pick if we got a chance to cast a season of Young, Famous & African.
Returning Cast Members (Seasons 1-3)
Diamond Platnumz
Full Name: Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack
Age: 35 (born October 2, 1989)
Country: Tanzania
Why He’s Famous: Diamond Platnumz is one of Africa’s biggest music stars, known for his hit songs, high-energy performances, and influence in the Afropop and Bongo Flava scene. He is the founder of Wasafi Classic Baby (WCB), a major label in East Africa.
Background
Diamond rose to fame in the early 2010s with his breakout song “Kamwambie” and has since dominated the African music industry. He has collaborated with global artists like Davido, Ne-Yo, and Rick Ross, solidifying his international reach. Beyond music, he’s known for his extravagant lifestyle, multiple business ventures, and high-profile relationships.
Major Storylines
Season 1: His complicated relationship with Zari Hassan, the mother of two of his children, was a major plotline. Their unresolved feelings and Zari’s tension with his new love interests kept fans engaged.
Season 2: His flirtation and romance with Fantana became one of the season’s biggest talking points. This led to tension between Fantana and Zari, as the two women clashed over Diamond’s affections.
Season 3: Diamond continued flirting with Fantana, fueling ongoing tension with Zari. His romantic entanglements remained central to the drama, as his interactions with both women stirred emotions and rivalries within the group.
Annie Macaulay-Idibia
Full Name: Annie Macaulay-Idibia
Age: 40 (born November 13, 1984)
Country: Nigeria
Why She’s Famous: Annie is an actress, model, and businesswoman best known for her roles in Nollywood and her high-profile marriage to legendary Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia).
Background
Annie started her career as a model before transitioning into acting. She gained recognition in Nollywood for her role in Pleasure and Crime and later became a household name with appearances in several Nigerian films.
Her relationship with 2Baba has kept her in the public eye, as the couple’s love story has been both celebrated and controversial due to his past relationships and multiple children from other women.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Annie’s storyline was dominated by her emotional struggles with 2Baba’s past infidelities and the presence of his other children. She opened up about the pain she endured in their marriage, which led to some tense moments with the cast.
Season 2: Annie’s close friendship with Swanky Jerry took a dramatic turn when he accused her of speaking negatively about him on a call — without realizing he was listening in. This betrayal led to one of the season’s most unexpected fallouts, leaving their friendship strained.
Season 3: The unresolved tension between Annie and Swanky resurfaced as they revisited the Season 2 phone call drama, making it clear that their friendship was still on shaky ground. Annie also clashed with Zari Hassan at Zari’s wedding, criticizing her for marrying a much younger man, Shakib. This comment sparked backlash, adding another layer to the season’s drama.
Zari Hassan
Full Name: Zarinah Hassan
Age: 44 (born September 23, 1980)
Country: Uganda
Why She’s Famous: Zari, known as “The Boss Lady,” is a Ugandan socialite, musician, and businesswoman. She gained prominence through her entrepreneurial ventures, music career, and high-profile relationships, particularly with Tanzanian musician Diamond Platnumz.
Background
Born in Jinja, Uganda, Zari pursued a diploma in cosmetology in London before returning to Uganda in 2004. She later moved to South Africa, where she co-founded Brooklyn City College with her late husband, Ivan Semwanga. The college has its headquarters in Pretoria and several satellite campuses across South Africa.
Zari has released several singles, including “0liwange,” but her music career didn’t go far. She has been a prominent figure in East African entertainment. Her personal life, including her relationships and family dynamics, has kept her in the public eye.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Zari’s arrival stirred emotions, especially with her ex-partner, Diamond Platnumz, being part of the cast. Their past relationship and co-parenting dynamics were central themes.
Season 2: Zari found herself in a love triangle involving Diamond and Andile Ncube. Andile’s interest in Zari led to tensions, especially given his friendship with Diamond.
Season 3: Zari introduced her new partner, Shakib Lutaaya, who is 32, to the group, leading to scrutiny about their age difference — especially from Annie Macaulay-Idibia, who commented that Shakib was too young for her. Additionally, Zari had a heated clash with Kefilwe Mabote, accusing her of staging a fake marriage just for social media content.
Nadia Nakai
Full Name: Nadia Nakai Kandava
Age: 34 (born May 18, 1990)
Country: South Africa
Why She’s Famous: Nadia Nakai first gained recognition on the e.tv hip-hop show, Shiz Niz, where she became the first female to win the Mixtape 101 competition. She rose to prominence in 2013 with her debut single, “Like Me,” followed by collaborations with top South African rappers, including Riky Rick (“Amantombazane” Remix) and Cassper Nyovest (“The Man, Naaa Meaan”).
Background
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nadia Nakai was raised by her Zimbabwean mother and South African father. Her 2019 debut album, Nadia Naked, solidified her as a major force in African hip-hop. The album’s success led to a documentary on Showmax and a deal with Def Jam Africa in 2020. She has also received multiple accolades, including the ‘Best Female Artist’ award at AFRIMA and a ‘Most Stylish Performing Artist’ award at the SA Style Awards.
Beyond music, Nadia has built a TV career, co-hosting Yo! MTV Raps South Africa and Gen-Z South Africa on Channel O.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Nadia’s presence brought a fresh perspective to the show, with her focus on her career and personal life. Nadia’s interactions with other cast members, especially Zari Hassan, started to shape the group dynamics.
Season 2: Nadia’s relationship with the late South African rapper, AKA took center stage, adding emotional depth to her storyline. Her interactions with the other cast members, including Zari, continued to build as she grew more comfortable with her place in the group.
Season 3: Nadia’s storyline became more emotional after the passing of AKA. Her grief was heavily featured in the season, highlighting her vulnerability and personal strength. She also had a huge fight with Annie, accusing her of being awful to other people in the group and claiming to be the victim.
Swanky Jerry
Full Name: Jeremiah Ogbodo
Age: 33 (born July 4, 1991)
Country: Nigeria
Why He’s Famous: Swanky Jerry is a Nigerian celebrity stylist. He has styled numerous celebrities and gained fame for his bold, eye-catching looks.
Background
Born in Nigeria, Swanky Jerry has become one of Africa’s top celebrity stylists. He works with high-profile personalities in music, film, and television and has gained a large following both online and offline.
Swanky Jerry’s personal life, including his appearances on Young, Famous & African, has kept him in the spotlight. He is known for his extravagant lifestyle, love for fashion, and his sometimes complicated relationships with the other cast members.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Swanky Jerry was introduced as a stylish and well-connected individual, known for his unique approach to fashion and lifestyle. He had a close friendship with Khanyi Mbau, and the season explored their deep bond and shared experiences in the entertainment industry.
Season 2: Swanky continued to play a prominent role, but tensions arose between him and Annie Macaulay-Idibia after she accused him of speaking negatively about her behind her back. The fallout created an ongoing conflict between the two, becoming one of the season’s central storylines.
Season 3: Swanky returned for Season 3, and his continued conflict with Annie was a focal point, especially as they revisited their issues from Season 2. His friendships with other cast members, like Fantana and Nadia, were central to his storyline, but he remained a figure who added both flair and drama to the show.
Naked DJ
Full Name: Quinton Masina
Age: 44 (born August 13, 1980)
Country: South Africa
Why He’s Famous: Naked DJ is a South African radio personality and DJ known for his presence in the South African entertainment scene. He is famous for his work on various radio stations and his role as a DJ in the music industry.
Background
Naked DJ was born in South Africa and has worked across several radio stations, building a loyal following with his charismatic personality and love for music. He is known for his ability to connect with listeners and for hosting major events across the country.
His role on Young, Famous & African introduced viewers to his personal life, including his relationships with Kayleigh Schwark. He is often seen as a calm presence amid the drama but has his moments of intensity, especially when dealing with complicated dynamics.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Naked DJ was introduced as a charming, level-headed DJ who provided a balance to the drama surrounding other cast members. His storylines mostly centred on his career and romantic life with Kayleigh Schwark.
Season 2: Naked DJ continued to be a stabilizing presence in the group, but his relationships with other cast members like Diamond Platnumz and Swanky Jerry began to be explored more. He was seen trying to avoid the drama while maintaining his career.
Season 3: Naked DJ remained a part of the group, staying out of most of the conflicts, but he faced pressure from the other cast to propose to Kayleigh, his longtime girlfriend. He had been married before and didn’t want to do it again. However, after the show, he announced their engagement on Instagram.
Kayleigh Schwark
Full Name: Kayleigh Schwark
Age: 32 (born December 4, 1992)
Country: South Africa
Why She’s Famous: Kayleigh Schwark is a South African influencer known for her lifestyle and fitness content. She is best known for her role on Young, Famous & African, where she became a fan favourite as Naked DJ’s girlfriend.
Background
Kayleigh Schwark is originally from South Africa and has worked in various sectors, including fashion, business, and social media. She gained popularity as a content creator and influencer and is known as a reality show star.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Kayleigh was introduced as a relatively calm and positive presence in the group. She quickly became a fan favourite for her kind nature and straightforward approach to life. Her storyline is mainly focused on her relationship with Naked DJ.
Season 2: Kayleigh remained a stabilizing force within the group, often staying out of the drama and offering advice to others. Her friendships with Zari and Nadia were highlighted, and her balanced approach to life stood out.
Season 3: Kayleigh remained a key part of the group, offering a more grounded perspective. Her friendships continued to grow, but she stayed mostly away from the conflict, calming the group. This season, she spoke a lot about her relationship with Naked DJ to the women and threatened to leave him.
Khanyi Mbau
Full Name: Khanyisile Mbau
Age: 40 (born October 15, 1984)
Country: South Africa
Why She’s Famous: Khanyi Mbau is a South African actress, television personality, socialite, and entrepreneur known for her glamorous lifestyle, and controversial public persona. She has been a staple in South African entertainment, making her mark in the TV and film industry, as well as becoming a widely recognised social media influencer.
Background
Khanyi Mbau was born and raised in South Africa. She rose to fame in the mid-2000s with her acting roles in South African soap operas, such as Muvhango, and later became a sought-after personality for reality TV shows and brand endorsements.
Known for her bold fashion choices, luxury lifestyle, and sometimes controversial opinions, Khanyi has captivated both fans and critics alike.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Khanyi Mbau’s arrival in Young, Famous & African immediately made waves. Her vibrant personality and unapologetic confidence were a central feature of the show. She had a rocky dynamic with some of the other cast members, particularly Zari Hassan.
Season 2: Khanyi returned for Season 2, continuing to add her unapologetically bold presence to the show. However, tensions began to rise, especially with Diamond Platnumz and Zari Hassan. When Bonang Matheba joined the cast, she said she didn’t trust her.
Season 3: Khanyi’s presence in Season 3 was limited, as she appeared as a guest in a few scenes. Despite her reduced screen time, her legacy from earlier seasons continued to echo in the group dynamic, and her absence was felt.
Major Storylines
2Baba (Recurring Guest)
Full Name: Innocent Ujah Idibia
Age: 49 (born September 18, 1975)
Country: Nigeria
Why He’s Famous: 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, is a Nigerian music legend and one of Africa’s most iconic musicians. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Afrobeat artists of all time and is known for hit songs like “African Queen,” “Amaka,” and “Only Me.” Beyond music, 2Baba is also a well-known public figure and philanthropist.
Background
2Baba began his career as part of the Nigerian music group, Plantashun Boiz, which was hugely successful in the early 2000s. He went on to have an immensely successful solo career, winning multiple awards, including an MTV Africa Music Award and a BET Award. His influence extends beyond music, as he is involved in various charity and advocacy work.
He has maintained a highly publicized personal life, especially his relationships, including his long-time marriage to Nigerian actress Annie Macaulay-Idibia.
Major Storylines
Season 1: 2Baba first appeared as a recurring character, giving viewers a glimpse into his relationship with Annie Macaulay-Idibia. Though his presence wasn’t as dominant, his support for Annie was evident.
Season 2: 2Baba was more involved this season, especially as he and Annie renewed their wedding vows. This emotional moment was a key part of their storyline. However, 2Baba became embroiled in drama when he clashed with Nadia Nakai. Nadia was upset after 2Baba made a comment about men being able to cheat if they wanted to, which sparked a heated exchange between them.
Season 3: 2Baba briefly appeared as a guest this season, once on a video call with Annie. His role was largely passive.
Cast Members Introduced in Season 2 (Returned for Season 3)
Fantana
Full Name: Francine Koffie
Country: Ghana
Why She’s Famous: Fantana is a Ghanaian singer and television personality known for her appearance on Young, Famous & African.
Background
Fantana was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and has roots in Ghana. She started her music career in 2019 with her single “So What.” In addition to her music career, Fantana’s personal life has kept her in the public eye, with her candid conversations about her relationships, especially with Diamond Platnumz, taking centre stage on the show.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Fantana joined the cast in Season 2, where her flirtation with Diamond Platnumz became a central storyline. Her attraction to Diamond led to tension with his baby mama, Zari Hassan, creating an ongoing conflict throughout the season.
Season 3: Fantana returned for Season 3, and her storyline continued to revolve around her dynamic with Diamond. Despite their flirtations, Fantana was caught in the crossfire of Zari’s tension with her, leading to several dramatic moments.
Luis Munana
Full Name: Luis Tshita Munana
Age: 33 (born July 23, 1991)
Country: Namibia
Why He’s Famous: Luis Munana is a Namibian designer, model and television personality who gained fame for his appearance on Big Brother Africa. He is the founder of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week.
Background
Luis was born in Namibia and started his career as a model in the entertainment industry. He is estranged from his devout Christian family after a clip of him having sex in the Big Brother house went viral.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Luis Munana joined the cast in Season 2, where his charm and good looks immediately made him a notable figure in the group. His role was relatively lowkey, as he avoided much of the drama but had a noticeable flirtation with some of the women, especially Fantana.
Season 3: Luis returned for Season 3. A major conflict arose when Luis asked Ini Edo to help him select a surrogate for his baby, which angered her. Ini Edo, who had her daughter through surrogacy, was upset by the request, feeling that Luis was parading women to decide who was worthy to be his surrogate. This disagreement led to a major fight between Luis, Ini Edo, and Swanky Jerry, adding a dramatic moment to the season.
New Cast Members in Season 3
Shakib Lutaaya
Full Name: Shakib Lutaaya Chum
Age: 32 (born in 1992)
Country: Uganda
Why He’s Famous: Shakib Lutaaya is a Ugandan boxer who gained attention after being introduced as Zari Hassan’s husband on Young, Famous & African. His relationship with Zari, marked by an age difference and public scrutiny, became a focal point of the season.
Background
Shakib is a boxer, but little is known about his professional ventures outside of his relationship with Zari. He became a subject of media interest due to their public relationship, particularly when they faced criticisms surrounding their significant age gap. Shakib has since continued to maintain a relatively private life away from the limelight, though his role on Young, Famous & African has boosted his public recognition.
Major Storylines
Season 3: Shakib was introduced as Zari Hassan’s husband. Their relationship became a point of contention, especially with Annie Macaulay-Idibia, who openly commented that Shakib was too young for Zari. This created tension within the group, adding drama to the season. Despite the scrutiny, Shakib’s relationship with Zari remained strong, and his presence on the show remained mostly calm.
Ini Edo
Full Name: Iniobong Edo Ekim
Age: 42 (born April 23, 1982)
Country: Nigeria
Why She’s Famous: Ini Edo is a renowned Nigerian actress and film producer, recognized as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures. With a career spanning over two decades, she has captivated audiences with her performances in a wide variety of Nollywood films. Ini Edo also has a strong presence on social media, where she shares insights into her lifestyle, career, and personal life.
Background
Ini Edo’s career began in Nollywood in the early 2000s, and she quickly rose to prominence due to her dramatic chops. She has since built a significant filmography, with roles in over 100 films. In addition to acting, Ini Edo is also a film producer and brand ambassador for various companies.
Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.
Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Background
Major Storylines
Season 3: Ini Edo joined the cast in Season 3, and her interactions with Luis Munana and Swanky Jerry were pivotal to the drama. She became involved in a major conflict with Luis after he asked her to help him select a surrogate for his baby. Ini Edo, who had used a surrogate to have her daughter, was offended by the request and accused Luis of parading women to decide who would be his surrogate. This sparked a heated argument and tension with the other cast members.
Kefilwe Mabote
Full Name: Kefilwe Mabote
Age: 35 (born April 10, 1989)
Country: South Africa
Why She’s Famous: Kefilwe Mabote is a South African luxury influencer, fashionista, and businesswoman. She is known for her luxurious lifestyle, high-end fashion choices, and massive following on social media platforms.
Background
Kefilwe Mabote rose to fame primarily through her social media presence, where she built an enormous following. As a fashion and beauty influencer, Kefilwe has collaborated with top brands and featured in various media outlets. In addition to her work as an influencer, she is a businesswoman, with her own ventures in fashion and cosmetics.
Kefilwe’s rise to fame came through her online presence and her ability to market herself as a luxury lifestyle influencer.
Major Storylines
Season 3: Kefilwe was introduced in Season 3, where she became embroiled in a heated confrontation with Zari Hassan. Zari accused Kefilwe of staging a fake marriage for social media content, which led to a dramatic clash between the two.
Cast Members Who Left & Speculations on Why
Bonang Matheba
Full Name: Bonang Dorothy Matheba
Age: 37 (born June 25, 1987)
Country: South Africa
Seasons Appeared In: Season 2
Why She’s Famous: Bonang Matheba is a South African TV presenter, radio host, businesswoman, and fashion entrepreneur. She is celebrated for her glamorous lifestyle, significant presence in the entertainment industry, and business ventures, which include her own line of champagne and clothing.
Background
Bonang’s career began in television in the early 2000s, and she quickly rose to fame for her hosting skills on shows such as Top Billing and The Front Row. Her radiance and charisma led her to other major media projects, including radio shows, and she became known as one of South Africa’s most influential celebrities.
Bonang has expanded her brand into various sectors, notably as a businesswoman, and has accumulated a large following on social media.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Bonang Matheba was introduced in Season 2. She became involved in a heated conflict with Luis Munana over an event that he invited her to in Namibia. Bonang accused Luis of mistreating her at the event and claimed he had lied about her online.
Why She Left
Bonang left the show before the second season was over. Swanky Jerry, who had introduced her to the group, said that she told him she felt attacked and ganged up on by the group. Khanyi said that she was surprised by Bonang’s decision to come on the show, calling it “not her style.” There was also tension between Bonag and Nadia who used to be friends, but have long had a fall out.
Andile Ncube
Full Name: Andile Ncube
Age: 43 (born October 4, 1981)
Country: South Africa
Seasons Appeared In: Seasons 1 and 2
Why He’s Famous: Andile Ncube is a South African television and radio presenter. He gained popularity through his work as a host on various TV shows, including the South African version of Big Brother Africa and The Real Goboza.
Background
Andile Ncube’s career began in the early 2000s, when he transitioned from being a footballer to a television personality. He made a name for himself as a charismatic host on several South African shows. Beyond television, Andile has built a solid career as a businessman, having established multiple ventures in entertainment and media. His fame is also boosted by his high-profile relationships and his significant social media following.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Andile Ncube was part of the original cast in Season 1, where he showed off his interview chops, mostly asking the cast personal questions about their private lives.
Season 2: In Season 2, Andile continued his interviews, asking Nadia why she fell out with Bonang on the show. He also interviewed Annie, where she spoke about her marriage with 2Baba.
Why He Left
Andile Ncube’s exit from Young, Famous & African after Season 2 was largely attributed to him not returning as a main cast member for Season 3. The show did not offer a clear public statement about his departure.
Cast Breakdown by Country
South Africa 
- Khanyi Mbau
- Naked DJ
- Kayleigh Schwark
- Bonang Matheba
- Kefilwe Mabote
- Andile Ncube
- Nadia Nakai
Nigeria 
- Annie Macaulay-Idibia
- 2Baba
- Ini Edo
- Swanky Jerry
Tanzania 
- Diamond Platnumz
Uganda 
- Zari Hassan
- Shakib Lutaaya
Ghana 
- Fantana
Namibia 
- Luis Munana
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is the most famous person on Young, Famous & African?
The most famous cast member depends on social media influence, industry success, and regional popularity. Some of the biggest names include:
Ini Edo – A veteran Nigerian actress
2Baba – A legendary Nigerian musician with decades of success in the industry.
Diamond Platnumz – One of Africa’s biggest musicians, with a massive following in East Africa and beyond.
Bonang Matheba – A media personality and businesswoman with a strong fanbase in South Africa.
Zari Hassan – A Ugandan socialite and entrepreneur known across Africa.
Khanyi Mbau – A South African actress and television personality.
2. Who has the most Instagram followers?
As of February 2025, the top cast members by Instagram followers are:
Diamond Platnumz – 18.1 million
Ini Edo – 14.2 million
Zari Hassan – 12.3 million
2Baba – 8 million
Annie Macaulay-Idibia – 7.9 million
Follower counts may change over time.
3. Is Young, Famous & African scripted?
Like many reality TV shows, Young, Famous & African is not fully scripted but is likely structured for dramatic effect. Cast members are real people, but producers may influence storylines, conversations, and conflicts to keep things engaging.
4. How much do cast members get paid?
Netflix has not disclosed salaries, but considering how famous the cast is, they likely could be one of the highest paid casts of any reality show on the continent.
5. Which country has the most cast members?
South Africa with 8.
6. Who is the youngest person on Young, Famous & African?
Fantana: 27 (born July 3, 1997)
7. When does Young, Famous & African return?
Young, Famous & African is currently in production, with season 4 anticipated to be released around June 2026.
