Mpande ready to play love games

Brentwood Park resident Mpande Buthelezi is thrilled to be part of Mzansi Magic’s new dating show, The Catch.

This new series redefines the search for love with unexpected twists and intense competition.

As one of the suitors hoping to find a genuine connection, he must navigate romance, strategy and deception because, in this game, not everyone is who they claim to be.

With eight single ladies searching for love and eight imposters blending into the mix, trust becomes the ultimate test because some are ready to break hearts and steal the prize.

Will Mpande find his perfect match or fall victim to mind games? I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

The 28-year-old said his past relationship mistakes motivated him to enter the show and give love another shot, and this time, he’s in it to win it.

“My experience on the show has been amazing because I get to do what I love – being in front of the camera.

“Being at an incredible resort surrounded by great people has been fun, not to mention the food. I wasn’t prepared for the drama but adjusted quite well.”

Mpande admitted that one of his biggest challenges has been the limited time to form connections.

“There are so many men and only a few women, so time is short to try and build a connection while also staying mentally prepared to avoid elimination,” he said.

When asked if he had a strategy to prepare himself mentally and emotionally, Mpande said he had none, “I’m just being myself and going with the flow.”

When asked if The Catch reflects real-life dating challenges, especially in the age of online dating and catfishing, he said yes.

“The show is similar to speed dating and online hookups. You’re never sure if the person you’ve chosen is exactly as beautiful as you think she is. You fall in love with the conversation. Here, you don’t know who the other person is until you meet face-to-face.”

Mpande said being on the show changed his perspective on love and relationships.

“In the past, I was more interested in women from a particular tribe. I’ve also realised that sometimes, in relationships, you shouldn’t be too kind to the point that you fade into the background.

“I’ve learnt that you must be patient with the person you love. One needs to develop a thick skin through the ups and downs. Also, how you present yourself is how you are received.”

Having previously been part of Tropika Island of Treasure as a contestant, Mpande hopes to continue growing in the entertainment industry.

“As someone who loves the media space, I’m eager to put in the effort to work on movies and series, taking my passion to the next level. I also plan to venture into the business world by launching a real estate company while actively seeking the next big opportunity in film and TV. My dream is to land a role on Netflix and, one day, in Hollywood.

“The journey doesn’t stop at just one spotlight; it only gets brighter. I want to inspire my peers, just like all the greats in SA,” he said.

The Catch airs on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161) every Sunday at 21:00.

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