Bonang Matheba is in the running to replace Steve Harvey as Miss Universe host

There are major changes underway at the Miss Universe organisation and the changes have left a gaping hole for a charismatic host. As a result, South African social media users are hoping Bonang Matheba will be the one chosen to fill that void. 

Earlier this month, popular comedian and host Steve Harvey parted ways with the Miss Universe pageant after five consecutive years as the show’s host. 

According to the Binge Pop blog Bonang Matheba, Jeannie Mai-Jenkins, Zuri Hall and Ashley Graham are the names that have emerged as front runners on a list of potential candidates to replace Steve Harvey as the host of Miss Universe.

The publication reports that the pageant will be moving broadcast homes to streaming site Roku in addition to parting ways with former host Steve Harvey. 

“The announcement saw fans and followers flooding the pageant’s site and social media with suggestions on who should host the pageant next,” reported the publication. 

The organisation was purchased by a Thai media tycoon and transgender rights advocate for $20 million back in  October 2022. Binge Pop reports that this marks the first time the beauty pageant organization will be owned by a woman.

The new owner in question is Jakapong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, CEO and biggest shareholder of JKN Global Group Pcl (JKN) (JKN.BK). She is a celebrity in Thailand, starring in local versions of reality shows Project Runway and Shark Tank.

She took to social media to ask fans of the pageant to share names of people they think she should consider as host. 

Over on Twitter, SA’s very own Bonang Matheba is leading the pack thanks to her strong support base of loyal fans. 

Bonang’s name has been thrown in that hat alongside the likes of Zuri Hall, Jeannie Mai Jenkins, Anele Mdoda, Juiliana Rancic and Mel B to name a few.

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