Afternoon Express trio disappoints

Television personalities Bonang Matheba, Jeannie D (Jeannie de Gouveia) and Bonnie Mbuli would be the hosts of the new exciting offering. But when Afternoon Express premiered on Monday, there was very little “different” about it. In fact, the lifestyle show is very similar to the breakfast show Expresso, and was a big disappointment.

The first episode was dedicated to women with power. Singers Zolani Muholi and Karen Zoid and actress Terry Pheto were the first guests interviewed by Matheba – arguably the main drawcard.

But viewers don’t really get to see a different side of the guests, or the presenters for that matter. Matheba and Jeannie D seem to be too focused on delivering the perfect “Top Billing” link – which is void of any personality – and don’t really engage with the guests.

All three presenters have a large social media following and this is perhaps why the show trended for a few hours after it aired on Monday. It would have been great if viewers were able to get to know the presenters a bit better.

Another big concern about what seems to be a glamorous show aimed at the modern young woman, is the choice of topics. One thing which Three Talk With Noeleen did well was engage with some of the most burning issues in our country – load shedding, crime, xenophobia and even infidelity.

It would be a great shame if the new show was limited to home exercises and cooking tips. Another element which is missing, is the viewers. The fact the show is prerecorded means viewers can’t be part of the action – no callers or live tweets, which always add an interesting twist.

The show’s time slot is its biggest challenge. Shows such as e.tv’s Katch It With Khanyi and Ekse Zwakala will always have an advantage simply because they air during prime time.

That said, the show is hosted by three of our country’s hardest-working women who are an inspiration to thousands. There’s no doubt that once they settle into their new roles and find an identity which separates them from Expresso and Top Billing, their show will be nothing less than a success.