Dr Rebecca Malope Shares Her Heart on Gospel Superstars: “This Show is Something Special”

Mzansi’s gospel matriarch, Dr Rebecca Malope, is beaming with pride as she steps into a new role—judge and mentor on e.TV’s latest reality competition, Gospel Superstars. With over three decades in the gospel music industry, Dr Malope brings a wealth of wisdom, faith, and motherly honesty to the show, which she describes as unlike anything South Africa has seen before.

Speaking about the show, which premiered on Sunday, 25 May, the legendary artist says she was immediately drawn to its unique concept. Gospel Superstars isn’t just about finding singers—it’s about transformation. What sets it apart, she explains, is that contestants are given what she calls “ugly” songs. These are songs that are unfamiliar, unpolished, and sometimes difficult to interpret at first listen.

“At first, they want to reject the songs,” she says with a laugh, “but we’re testing their ability to create something beautiful out of something rough. It’s not about singing the perfect song—it’s about making a song your own, ministering through it, and touching people’s hearts.”

For Dr Malope, the challenge is deeply spiritual. Based on her extensive experience, she believes true gospel artistry isn’t just about technical skill but about the ability to connect with the song’s message—and the audience.

“These are young, unknown kids,” she says. “They don’t have the stage experience yet, but some of them surprise us. When they take a song and own it, when they sing it with conviction—that’s when I know they’re ready for something bigger.”

She admits her role as judge comes with its own challenges. Known for her nurturing nature, Rebecca still makes room for tough love. “I’m a mother to them. I love them, but I have to be honest. Some of them tell me, ‘But Mama Ribs, I can sing!’ And I have to say, ‘Not for this competition—not yet.’ It’s not easy to say, but it’s part of the process.”

Still, the joy outweighs the difficulty. Working alongside fellow judges Khaya Mthethwa and Nkateko Maluleke has been a fulfilling experience for her, and she has high praise for their chemistry and the family-like dynamic they share on set.

One of the most rewarding parts of the journey, she says, is watching the contestants evolve week by week. “We’re seeing real growth. These young artists are digging deep and pouring themselves into their performances. They’re giving it everything, and it shows. The transformation is incredible.”

As Gospel Superstars continues to unfold, Dr Malope believes viewers will be moved—not just by the music, but by the stories of perseverance, purpose, and faith behind each performance.

Asked if she’s working on any new music of her own, the gospel icon offers a gentle hint. “Maybe a song or something,” she says. “But only when it’s ready. I want it to touch lives and speak to the soul—just like these contestants are learning to do.”

For Dr Rebecca Malope, Gospel Superstars is more than a show. It’s a platform for calling out purpose, nurturing gifts, and building the next generation of gospel legends. And with her leading the charge, it’s clear that the future of gospel music in South Africa is in safe, loving hands.