Khanyisile “Khanyi” Mbau is one of South Africa’s most iconic, polarizing, and enduring media figures.
Known as an actress, television presenter, socialite, and businesswoman, Mbau has spent over two decades in the spotlight, transitioning from early soap opera stardom to becoming a mainstream power player across modern South African media.
Early Life and Age
Khanyi Mbau was born on October 15, 1985, in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa. As of 2026, she is 40 years old.
She was named Khanyisile (“one who brings light”) by her father, Menzi Mcunu, and raised in Mofolo, Soweto, primarily by her mother, Lynette Sisi Mbau, and her maternal grandmother.
Her upbringing under her strict grandmother influenced her poise and early appreciation for glamour. Mbau is also the half-sister of internet personality and TV presenter Lasizwe Dambuza.
Television and Entertainment Career
Mbau made her television debut in 2004 when she took over the iconic role of Doobsie on SABC 2’s popular soap opera Muvhango, a position that launched her into nationwide fame.
Following Muvhango, she continued to solidify her acting credits across major television shows:
Soap Operas and Series: Played Mbali in SABC 1’s Mzansi, Zee in the mini-series After 9, Pinky in Ashes to Ashes, and Palesa Tladi in Umlilo.
Telenovelas and Streaming Hits: Featured as Dinekile (“Lady Die”) in SABC 1’s hit drama Uzalo, starred as Tshidi in Mzansi Magic’s Abomama, and landed the core role of Zandile Zulu in Showmax’s hit drama series The Wife.
Presenting and Talk Shows: Hosted her acclaimed talk show Katch It With Khanyi (which received a SAFTA nomination in 2015), co-hosted SABC 3’s The Weekend Edition, hosted The Scoop, and presented BET Africa’s reality series The Big Secret.
Film: Starred in high-grossing South African films including Happiness is a Four-letter Word (2016), Frank and Fearless (2018), and the thriller The Red Room (2019).
In addition to acting and broadcasting, Mbau hosted a radio show on Metro FM alongside Somizi Mhlongo, released a self-titled music album, and authored her biography B*tch, Please! I’m Khanyi Mbau.
Family and Children
Khanyi Mbau is the mother of one daughter, Khanukani “Cannelle” Mbau. Khanukani was born during Mbau’s marriage to former businessman Mandla Mthembu, whom she married in 2006 before their high-profile divorce.
Over the years, Mbau has publicly shared updates on her relationship with her daughter, celebrating her growth and achievements on social media as Khanukani matures into adulthood.
Estimated Net Worth
Khanyi Mbau’s wealth stems from her career in film, television contracts, hosting gigs, brand partnerships, and various business ventures.
While exact public financial audit records vary, international celebrity wealth tracking sites estimate Khanyi Mbau’s net worth to be around $10 million USD (approximately R180+ million ZAR).
Her lifestyle, luxury vehicles, and high-profile profile have consistently positioned her as one of South Africa’s most successful socialites and entertainers.
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