Jack Parow on being in drag in Die Tollie & Manila Show

Die Tollie & Manila Show is a fearless and no-holds-barred talk show where South African celebrities join drag queens Tollie Parton and Manila von Teez for an unforgettable evening of candid conversation, games, and high-energy entertainment - all while rocking fabulous drag looks.

Produced by POP24, the powerhouse team behind the MIPAfrica Inclusive Lens winner Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap and the record-breaking The Mommy Club franchise, this show continues their legacy of groundbreaking, culturally relevant content.

Watch the trailer for Die Tollie & Manila Show

The all-star, fearless guests on Die Tollie & Manila Show include a diverse range of South Africa’s most intriguing personalities: Helen Zille, Chairperson of the Federal Council of the Democratic Alliance; actors Celeste Loots, Francois Jacobs, Frank Opperman, Jarrid Geduld, and Rob van Vuuren; television personality Soli Philander; and musicians Craig Lucas, Jack Parow, Loki Rothman, and Valiant Swart. Rounding out the lineup are online influencers Aletta Francina de Kock and Rynhardt Schoeman - all of whom you'll see in a completely new light.

Now in its second week, the show features none other than award-winning rapper Jack Parow (born Zander Tyler) as this week's transformed star. With over a decade in the entertainment industry, Jack brings his unique personality and undeniable charm to the show.  

To spill the tea on his unforgettable time on the show, we sat down with Jack Parow and had a candid chat about his experience: 

How was your experience being in drag?

The experience was absolutely incredible - such a crazy and intense process. I have a whole new level of respect for anyone who does drag. It’s not just about putting everything on; taking it all off afterward requires a huge amount of time, effort, and skill too.

What was your favourite aspect of the experience?

Seeing myself in the mirror for the first time, especially on stage. I honestly had no idea what I looked like until that moment, and I was just like, "WTF?!". I looked like a demented Spice Girl, but in the best way!

Did you learn anything new about yourself?

That my neck can handle way more weight than I thought! My long cap was heavy, but that wig? It’s on another level!

Did it change any perceptions you had about women or drag queens?

Definitely. Like I mentioned earlier, I have a whole new level of respect for drag queens. I knew the process was long and meticulous, but you really don’t understand until you experience it. And performing in those outfits and heels? Absolutely crazy!

Would you do it again?

100%! Hopefully for a music video next time!

Can you take us through the process of your transformation? 

Honestly, not really. Haha. I had very little input - I just sat there and trusted the professionals. All the mirrors were covered, and I only saw myself for the first time when I stepped on stage. I left the transformation entirely in their hands.

Why should people watch the show?

Honestly, don’t even worry about the questions (which are, of course, super interesting)… but it’s all of us in drag! Who would want to miss that? It’s absolutely hilarious!