The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad breaks Showmax record

The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad has just broken the record for the most-watched Afrikaans show on Showmax since its relaunch, overtaking Trompoppie.

Produced by POP24 and directed by Pascual Wakefield, the Showmax Original reality series follows five powerful Afrikaans moms who are redefining the art of balancing parenting, power, and prestige.

The cast features Ansu Viljoen, Crystal Van Der Burgh, Louise Volschenk, Tessa Tullues, and Johandri Johnson, a 33-year-old full-time mother, devoted wife, and multi-title Bikini Fitness champion.

To celebrate the record, we caught up with Johandri, who opens up about the show, her marriage, and everything in between.

What inspired you to join the show?

I joined The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad because I wanted to be part of a community of strong, inspiring women who understand the unique journey of motherhood. It’s not just about being seen, it’s about sharing real stories - the highs and the lows - and supporting each other, showing that moms can be powerful, stylish, successful, and still vulnerable. I wanted to represent who I am in my authentic self, to connect with others, and to inspire women who can relate to me and my story.

How has it felt watching yourself on screen for the first time?

Watching myself on TV being vulnerable and soft-hearted was very emotional and eye-opening. It forced me to face the emotions I might’ve brushed off in the moment, but seeing them play out made me realise the strength it took to stay true to myself. Yes, it hurt - we are all human - but it also reminded me of my resilience and strength. I’ve definitely grown from it and now I will speak up with more confidence, not just for myself, but for others who might feel the same.

How have your family and friends responded to your time on the show?

The attention and feedback from my family and friends after watching the show has been nothing but love and support. Every single person who knows my heart and who knows me as a person has said, ‘That’s exactly who you are.’ And that’s the biggest compliment, because I stayed true to myself. It means so much to be seen and celebrated for who I genuinely am.

What have you learned about yourself throughout the filming process?

The show has taught me that having a good heart and sometimes wanting to be a peacemaker can bite you in the ass. Not everyone will like you, and that’s okay. I’ve learned that not everyone deserves access to your energy or your close group of people. You can stand up for yourself, set boundaries, and still remain kind. Strength doesn’t always have to be loud; it can be calm, grounded, and unapologetically real.

How are you feeling about the upcoming reunion episode?  Is there anything you'd like to clear up?

I do look forward to the reunion, not just to reflect but to bring clarity where it’s needed. I want to make it very clear: I was never a pushover or an instigator for wanting to make peace between everyone in the beginning. I choose my battles wisely and I stand up for myself when I believe the situation deserves my energy. But if it feels like high school drama, I’ll keep my distance, and I’m okay with that. Some might mistake that for weakness, but it actually takes a lot of strength to stay calm and not entertain negativity.

Did you build any genuine and lasting connections with the other women on the show?

Yes, I did make some genuine connections with a few of the mommies on the show.

When you’re in a space like that, full of different personalities and strong women, it’s not always easy, but there are definitely moments where real bonds form. 

I value authenticity, so the connections I did make were based on mutual respect and real energy, not just for the cameras. And that, for me, is what truly matters.

How do you feel about sharing your personal life so openly with the public?

Putting myself and my personal life out there was a big step but one I don’t regret. It was emotional, raw and real at times, but also empowering. I showed up as my true self - flaws, strengths, emotions and all - and that’s something I’m proud of. It’s not easy being so exposed, but if my story or my presence resonates with even one person, then it was worth it. I’ve learned a lot about myself in the process, and I’ve grown from the experience. 

Why do you think people should keep watching?

People should keep watching because it’s real, it’s raw, and, trust me, there’s still a lot more to come. There are messy moments and ugly fights, but underneath it all, there’s a powerful story about friendship, motherhood, and growth. 

Whether you’re a mom, a businesswoman, or even a young girl, there’s something in this show that you can relate to or learn from. 

It’s more than just entertainment; underneath the drama, there is heart. It’s real life and it’s unfolding right in front of you.

Catch new episodes of The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad every Friday on Showmax.

You can also compare the Johannesburg and Durban editions on Showmax, with a Tanzanian version starting on Friday, 25 April 2025.