The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad Breaks Showmax Record for Afrikaans Viewership

The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad has just made Showmax history, officially becoming the most-watched Afrikaans show on the platform since its relaunch—leapfrogging the previous frontrunner, Trompoppie. Produced by POP24 and directed by Pascual Wakefield (Beaulah: Queens Van Die Kaap), this Showmax Original reality series offers an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of five stylish, successful, and strong Afrikaans moms based in Pretoria.

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

To mark this record-breaking moment, we caught up with Johandri Johnson to unpack her experience on The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad:

“I joined because I wanted to be part of a community of inspiring women. It’s about showing that we can be powerful and vulnerable at the same time. I showed up as my true self—and that’s something I’m proud of.”

Johandri explains

Watching herself on screen for the first time was emotional.

“It forced me to confront my own emotions and realise the strength it took to stay true. It hurt, but it made me stronger.”

Support from family and friends has poured in, with Johandri feeling seen and celebrated:

“They said, ‘That’s exactly who you are.’ And that’s the biggest compliment.”

The show also offered personal growth.

“Not everyone deserves access to your energy. I’ve learned to set boundaries. Strength doesn’t always have to be loud—it can be calm, grounded, and real.”

With the reunion episode looming, she’s ready to speak her truth:

“I wasn’t a pushover or an instigator. I just knew what deserved my energy.”

When it comes to friendships, Johandri confirms she formed genuine connections with some of the cast.

“It wasn’t always easy, but there were real bonds formed from mutual respect.”

And sharing her life so openly?

“It was emotional and raw, but empowering. If my story touches even one person, it was all worth it.”

Why should viewers keep tuning in?

“Because it’s real and raw—and there’s still so much more to come. Beneath the drama is a story about growth, motherhood, and friendship.”

The Mommy Club: Van Die Hoofstad airs every Friday on Showmax. You can also catch the Johannesburg and Durban editions, with a Tanzanian version launching Friday, 25 April 2025.

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