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Out with the old, in with the new was the order of the day when talk show TrendingSA returned last night.
A new prime time spot of 6pm - moving from 9.30pm - was not the only change when the show returned. It was also helmed by new presenting trio of Refiloe Mpakanyane, Elma Smit and Mablerh - real name Mthokozisi Cele.
The show that had been off air for a year, kicked to the curb its old panelists Pabi Moloi, Musa Mthombeni, Nina Hastie and Kuli Roberts.
Mablerh told Sowetan just before they went live last night that the show will be taking a different direction.
"If we were coming in there and doing the exact same things that they did there will be pressure obviously because there will be comparison. When people watch they will figure out that the tone of the show has changed," Mablerh explained.
"We are stepping into a set that other people once filled, but it won't be that I'm called to replace a certain presenter.
"The show will be more socially conscious and delve into various issues instead of tackling an issue and glossing over it. We have a segment where we debate and share our views - it will get heated at times."
Umlazi-born Durbanite, Mablerh has done it all in local showbiz - from music, presenting, radio and acting. At one stage he even managed media personality Minnie Dlamini.
"What I want to bring to the show is that voice from the street, sometimes we forget to speak for Mondli from Umlazi and Sbu from Soweto.
I want to bring that voice, package it well and let our voices be heard," Mablerh said.
Mpakanyane is a seasoned radio and TV broadcaster currently hosting weekend breakfast on 702.
She has also acted in Invictus directed by Hollywood filmmaker Clint Eastwood.
Smit is a famous sports journalist having worked for SuperSport and Jacaranda FM.
"Live TV during prime time comes with a lot of pressure, but luckily it's the three of us and we will be able to support each other," Mablerh said.
"If you are going to be a voice that speaks for the people and echoing how they feel, you will hit the right notes most of the time.... I don't mind learning and being wrong - and that will be a teaching moment."
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