Londiwe Zulu, often known as Londie London, stole the show on Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD) with her alluring personality, voluptuous beauty, and irresistible glitter.
While the show focused on the turmoil of reality television, Londie’s life story is one of resilience and growth. Now a 32-year-old artist and hairpiece firm owner, Londie reflects on her experience on the program, the hurdles she’s faced, and her future goals.
Londie told TRUE LOVE why she chose to enter the world of reality TV, despite its tumultuous image. “I work in entertainment, so I am used to being in the spotlight. However, reality TV is all about drama, so I had to be mentally prepared,” she explained.
Though she embraced the chaos, Londie admitted there were times she questioned her decision. “I did at some point because it’s hard to have limits to which part of your private life you want to reveal. But now I know how to keep the balance,” she explained.
Her choice to leave the show was driven by practical reasons. “The only thing that kept me away is that I am not based in Durban anymore. I was struggling to manage time to shoot and didn’t want to just do appearances on the show. If and when I do come back to RHOD, I want to go all in,” she revealed.
Since stepping back from reality TV, Londie has found relief in watching the drama from the outside. “Being on the other side is definitely different, and I almost want to jump through the screen and say my piece!” she said with a laugh.
Despite her glamorous on-screen persona, Londie says there’s a quieter side to her that fans don’t often see. “I love my space, and I’m a homebody,” she shared.
Life after RHOD has been a whirlwind of creativity and entrepreneurship. Londie has been busy in the studio, collaborating with artists like DJ Maphorisa, and growing her brand with products like Londie London Braid and her fragrance, Holiday by Londie London. “I enjoy being an entrepreneur,” she said proudly.
Through the ups and downs of love, life, and motherhood, Londie credits her family as her driving force. “My mother and children. I want to make my family proud, and I want to be the best version of myself for my kids,” she said.
Some friendships from the show have endured, with Nonkanyiso “LaConco” Conco being a standout. “I think it’s a Zulu girl thing,” Londie joked.
Reflecting on her reality TV experience, she admitted her initial misconceptions. “I thought it was all real. Well, it is, but the people aren’t,” she said.
