Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu in Johannesburg, South Africa
After a journey marked by risk, redemption and resilience, Liema Pantsi has been crowned the winner of Big Brother Mzansi Season 6, walking away with the coveted R2 million grand prize.
The Season 6 “Bazozwa” edition, which ran from January 11 to March 22, kept viewers gripped as housemates battled it out for top honours. For Liema, the victory was a full-circle moment following her dramatic exit in Season 4.
Two weeks before that season’s finale, Liema made the bold decision to accept R250 000 and leave the competition, a move that divided opinion but underscored her strategic mindset. This time around, however, she returned with renewed focus and determination, making it clear she would see the journey through.
Older, wiser and more self-assured, Liema avoided emotional distractions and played a calculated game. Her path to the finale was further aided by Head of House Ashay, whose redemption wheel twist secured her a direct place in the finals.
Inside the house, Liema steered clear of romantic entanglements that had previously defined part of her journey, instead aligning strategically with fellow contestants Trixie and Didi as part of the “Mean Girls” alliance. She also kept viewers engaged through a long-running rivalry with eventual runner-up Thandeka Tshabalala.
Her composure, authenticity and strong presence ultimately set her apart, turning her second chance into a deserved triumph.
Before the finale, Big Brother paid tribute to the Top 6 housemates — including returning contestant Bravo B and finalist Que — highlighting their growth and memorable journeys over 71 days in the house.
In the final vote tally, Liema secured 33.84% of the votes, narrowly ahead of Thandeka, who garnered 29.97% in a tightly contested finish.
The winner was announced by host Smash Afrika at a lively watch party in Sandton, where fans and evicted housemates gathered in anticipation. The moment Liema’s name was called was met with loud cheers and celebration.
Shirley Adonisi, MultiChoice director of local entertainment channels, congratulated Liema and her fellow contestants.
“Congratulations to Liema for winning Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 and joining the winners’ Hall of Fame. All the housemates showed bravery and authenticity, and they remain winners in the eyes of viewers,” she said.
For her efforts, Liema not only claimed the R2 million grand prize but also accumulated over R3 000 from weekly challenge wins.
Having once walked away from the competition, Liema returned to finish what she started — and this time, she reached the Promised Land.
