What happens when the Real Housewives come to Africa

"Women like this really do exist."

The Real Housewives reality TV franchise has become one of America's biggest cultural exports. But what happens when this franchise lands in Africa?

In this episode of Limitless Africa, hosts Claude Grunitzky and Dimpho Lekgeu speak with Portia Hlubi, producer of The Real Housewives of Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Lagos, and Eugene Mbugua, executive producer of The Real Housewives of Nairobi. Together, they unpack how the franchise’s glamor and drama are being reimagined by African producers. From casting and cultural nuance to conflict style and aesthetics, this episode explores the behind-the-scenes decisions that make the show work across African cities.

Plus: The difference between the Real Housewives in Joburg and Lagos.

🌟 IN THIS EPISODE:

1:21 The Instagram skit that started it all

2:41 The universal appeal of reality TV

3:34 Adapting the format

4:42 The Real Housewives bible

5:11 From Joburg to Nairobi

7:48 Different rules for glamour

8:25 Drama

10:46 Audience expectations

12:55 Stories that travel

💬 QUOTES TO REMEMBER:

 "It does a number on your own psychology."

"As people, we all have universal problems. We're all looking for love."

"It's a whole college education on its own on how to make good television."

"Nigerian ladies argue or conflict very differently."

" There was one crazy scene where a cast member brought a life size casket to a lunch."

"The ladies in Nigeria are quite superstars in that they don't really like being told what to do."

🌍 ABOUT LIMITLESS AFRICA

The podcast that asks how Africans and Americans can work together for shared prosperity

Every Monday: 15-minute episodes that dive into an issue that matters to Africans

Every Thursday: extended interview with someone unlocking Africa's limitless potential

➕ WANT MORE?

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Limitless Africa is sponsored by the US Department of State and the Seenfire Foundation.

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