Pearl Modiadie is a multifaceted gem, excelling as a TV presenter, radio DJ, actress and producer. With a career spanning almost two decades, she’s etched her name into the annals of the SA entertainment industry. We find out why the world is her oyster. 

Pearl Modiadie is a household name, but behind all the fame lies a woman deeply rooted in family values. A woman named Nthabiseng Pearl Modiadie. “I am Nthabiseng first and foremost,” says Pearl – or Nthabi to her family.  She’s the quintessential girl’s girl, a hopeful romantic whose family values dictate the way she lives her life. Humility is her cornerstone, passed down through generations, and she wears it with an air of grace.  

A glowing career 

Pearl’s career has been a remarkable odyssey, spanning 17 success-filled years. “I count my blessings whenever I think about my career growth,” she shares, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of an industry in which tomorrow is never a given.  

Born in the Gauteng township of Tembisa, Pearl matriculated in 2005, then completed a diploma in Media Studies and Journalism at Rosebank College. Her star began to rise in 2007, when she graced South African screens as a presenter on e-TV’s youth programme, Craz-e. In 2009, at the age of 21, she debuted as a DJ on Gauteng’s youth radio station, YFM, swiftly gaining a devoted following. Three years later, she became the host of The Jumpstart, the weekend breakfast show, before joining Metro FM as co-host of their lunch show alongside Thomas Msengana. 

Perhaps it was inevitable, but Pearl soon found herself back on the small screen, this time as an actress after landing a role in Scandal!. Since then, she has presented and produced the popular music show Zaziwa and has also become a regular on Expresso, SABC3’s morning show.  

“I guess the big challenge for me has been figuring out how to reinvent the solid brand that I’ve built for years – and whether or not it does, in fact, need reinvention, or just to progress naturally to the next stage,” she says. “It is helping me dig deep into understanding who I am right now and what it is that I truly want.” 

The role of a lifetime

Her personal life has also been marked by significant milestones. In September 2020, Pearl gave birth to a baby boy, Lewatle Olivier. With motherhood began a transformative chapter in the star’s life, enriching her perspective on family and personal growth while also illuminating the importance of family and stability.  

“I have learned to appreciate my support system, especially the role of my sisters,” she says. Having lost her own mother at just 19 years old, Pearl’s experience of motherhood has been particularly poignant. “My mom’s passing was significant, and the loss only hit me a few years afterwards, which made me realise I hadn’t dealt with it,” she recalls. “I find comfort knowing that she’s my guardian angel, and I know she’s always with me. I fear dying and leaving my baby behind, so I wonder how hard it must’ve been for her to accept this fate and having to leave her three daughters behind. It’s painful for me to think about it.” She often wonders what life would be like if her mother was still around – but the loss revealed a reservoir of resilience within her, a strength and independence that she didn’t know she possessed.  

Pearl describes co-parenting as a test of two individuals. “This is where I have experienced the biggest personal growth,” she says, “because I truly believe it takes two very mature individuals, who are willing to put aside the disappointment and hurt of a romantic relationship not working out, to fully immerse themselves in loving a precious child that they decided to bring into this world.”  

This approach has taught her patience, as well as the ability to prioritise what adds value to her life, and a commitment to her son’s happiness. “It hasn’t always been a walk in the park, but out of it came a friendship built on the same values and a happy child with two happy parents making the most of the situation, albeit unconventional,” she adds. 

Looking to the future

Pearl’s journey has been driven by the relentless pursuit of her dreams and aspirations. She recently ventured into the world of acting once again – a daring shift from her successful career as a radio and TV host.  

“I’ve always wanted to pursue acting on a bigger scale,” she says. “When I auditioned and got my role on BET’s Redemption, I completely immersed myself in it so I could do justice to the craft and afford it the respect it deserves,” she says. And the reviews have been amazing. In the telenovela set in a mega-church, she plays Yvonne Zikode, a devoted partner who will stop at nothing to see her husband succeed – for her own benefit. 

“This has been completely transformative for me. I pushed my limits to see how much further I can stretch. I proved to myself that it’s never too late to start something new in any career, no matter what you’re known for,” she says.

Her advice to anyone looking to make a fresh start is: “Do it! It’s better to know than to never try. When you’re presented with an opportunity, embrace it. If it doesn’t work out, be proud that you tried. If it does… well, hello, new you!”

Unsurprisingly, Pearl is also a strong advocate for New Year’s resolutions. “A new year feels like we’re all hitting the reset button and getting another chance to get it right,” she explains. Her approach to goal setting is to write it down and then believe in its eventual fulfilment. 

As she envisions her future, Pearl eagerly anticipates new opportunities in TV production. She is also looking forward to watching her son grow up and reach new milestones. Travel, too, is on the agenda – for Pearl, it’s not just a passion; it’s inspiration. Exploring different cultures and places has broadened her perspective on life, she says, reminding her that the world is vast and every decision can lead to a different life. 

Pearl in a flash

Your guilty pleasure?
Cappuccino – and watching dating reality TV shows.

Favourite book?
Many! I can’t choose one right now.

What do you know for sure?
If it is to be, it is up to me (in terms of work).

Always in your bag?
Cuticle oil and lots of receipts.

Two fashion items you can’t live without?
Good undergarments and eyewear.

A quote that resonates with you in tough times?
It’s not a quote, it’s an action – and the action is to pray through every season of my life.

Playlist on repeat?
Anything 90s RnB.

Hobby you find particularly fulfilling?
Painting. I’m not great at it but it is therapeutic.

Dream destinations on your bucket list?
Iceland and the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Your personality or character in one word?
Resilient.

FOLLOW HER
Facebook: Pearl Modiadie
Instagram: @pearlmodiadie
TikTok: @pearlmodiadie
X: @pearlmodiadie

Words by: Koketso Mashika
Photography: Zhann Solomons

Also read: Lira’s story and journey to recovery