Reality TV star and businesswoman Annie Lodick has returned to reality TV after a two-year hiatus to focus on her mental wellness. She recently joined the cast of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa, launching on Friday, 28 November on Showmax.
She left the world of reality TV to focus on her mental health and her marriage, which had come to an end.
For two years, she stayed out of the limelight. She makes a comeback with a new lease on life.
“I finally felt like me again. Refreshed, recharged, and ready to have fun with it,” Lodick said.
“I took that break to protect my peace and do some serious self-work. Now I’m coming back from a place of strength, not survival.”
Joining The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa came at the right time.
Starting Over
Lodick separated from her husband and businessman Kgolo “Da Guru” Mthembu due to allegations of infidelity.
This December will be three years since they parted ways. And she is still working on herself.
There are moments that she wishes were not captured on screen.
“There’s a moment where I lost myself a little because some personal triggers came up,” she said.
“But I also believe those moments are part of being real. I owned it, worked through it, and came out stronger.”
Two years off camera have given her the time to change.
“I’m in a different space mentally and spiritually, and I wanted to show that growth,” Lodick said.
“Plus, let’s be honest… once you’ve had a taste of reality TV, it’s hard not to miss that energy!”
Back for the spotlight
She is both excited and nervous to make the return.
“It’s not every day you get a house full of iconic women from all over the continent! My mindset was simple: go in open-hearted, have fun, and represent Durban with grace and a little spice,” she said.
“I wasn’t looking for drama, but I also wasn’t going to dim my light or bite my tongue.”
She had to mentally prepare for her return to television.
“I made sure to go back in knowing who I am, what I stand for, and what I will or won’t entertain,” she said.
“I pray, I journal, I affirm myself daily. And I’ve built a routine that keeps me grounded no matter what chaos is around me. So yes, I’m back in the spotlight… but this time, the light is mine.”
