Minnie Ntuli talks about joining The Real Housewives of Durban S5

Since her debut in Season 5 of The Real Housewives of Durban, Minnie Ntuli has become the talk of the town, trending almost every week.

We catch up with the 30-year-old radio broadcaster to get the scoop on what it’s been like joining RHOD, how her life has changed since, where things really stand with Londie, and everything in between.

Watch the trailer for The Real Housewives of Durban S5

What made you decide to join The Real Housewives of Durban?

To be honest, it wasn’t part of the plan. But when the opportunity came, I saw it as a chance to step out of my comfort zone and be part of something bold, loud, and very Durban. I also wanted to represent a different kind of woman, someone who’s still figuring things out, but doing so authentically and unapologetically.

How did your friends and family react when they found out you’d be on The Real Housewives of Durban?

They were shook! But mostly supportive. My mom said, “Ungakhohlwa ukuthi ungubani” [“Never forget who you are”]. My close circle was excited and also protective. They know I’m sensitive but spicy, and reality TV is no walk in the park.

Did you have any reservations or expectations going in?

Absolutely. I was nervous about how I’d be perceived. I mean, people will judge you for breathing wrong on camera. But I also knew that if I went in with an open heart and stayed true to myself, I’d be okay. I didn’t expect the emotional rollercoaster, though.

How is being on the show different from watching it?

Ha! Night and day. Watching is entertainment. Living it is unpredictable, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming. The cameras don’t stop rolling when you’re tired or triggered. It’s raw. You can’t curate your responses, and that’s where the growth happens, honestly.

Did you make any solid connections with any of the ladies?

Yes, there are a few beautiful souls I connected with on and off camera. I won’t name names – people will start dissecting dynamics but there are some women I genuinely respect, and our relationships are real.

What surprised you most about being on a reality TV show?

How much of yourself you discover. You think you know who you are, and then someone presses your buttons on camera and it’s like, “Oh wow, is that me?” The experience really exposes both your strengths and your shadows.

How do you handle the pressure of being in the public eye, especially with such a platform?

I take breaks. I protect my peace. I pray a lot. And I’ve learnt to remind myself that public opinion doesn’t define me. The people who know my heart matter the most. Still, it’s tough. Some days are harder than others, but I’m learning not to take everything personally.

Were there any moments you wish had been portrayed differently?

Yes, and that’s the nature of edited television. There were conversations and context that didn’t make the cut, especially around some of the more intense moments. But I’m not here to blame editing. I also take responsibility for how I showed up. I’m a work in progress.

How do you handle online criticism or social media backlash?

Whew. It’s not easy. People say hurtful things with zero context, and it stings. But I try to separate the noise from the truth. I read what I need to grow, and I release what doesn’t serve me. I’ve had to remind myself daily that being flawsome means owning your mistakes, learning out loud, and giving yourself grace.

Are there misconceptions about you that you’d like to clear up?

Yes. People think I’m just this hot-headed, defensive girl with an attitude. But there’s more to me. I’m soft-hearted. Loyal. Thoughtful. I just happen to be fiery when pushed. I feel deeply, and sometimes that comes out messily. But I’m not fake. What you see is what you get.

Do you and Londie have history? Is there something viewers are not seeing about the beef you two have?

There’s no dramatic backstory or secret feud. What happened between us happened on the show, in real time, and, unfortunately, it spiralled. Emotions were high, egos were bruised, and communication broke down. I’ve since reflected and reached out privately to apologise. What viewers saw wasn’t the full picture, but my actions in those moments are on me.

Would you join the show on a full-time basis?

Never say never. If I did, it would have to be from a place of growth, not ego. I’d want to show up with more softness, more maturity, and a stronger sense of self. I’ve learnt that being real doesn’t always mean being reactive, or responding to everything. Showing up with silence is a lesson I’d love to explore should I ever consider coming back.