Pearl Thusi, born Sithembile Xola Pearl Thusi on May 13, 1988, in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, is a multifaceted talent known for her work as an actress, model, radio personality, and television host. Despite facing hardships in her childhood, she persevered and rose to become one of South Africa’s most popular media personalities. Let’s take a closer look at her inspiring journey and successful career.
Pearl Thusi’s childhood was marked by difficulties as she witnessed her father abusing her mother. At the tender age of 14, tragedy struck when her mother passed away. Pearl fondly remembers her late mother and wishes she could have been there to witness her success in the entertainment industry. She grew up with two younger sisters, Prunella and Pamela Thusi. Pearl attended Pinetown Girls’ High School and pursued a B.A in Dramatic Arts at the University of the Witwatersrand, taking a brief hiatus from her studies to focus on her burgeoning career.
Pearl Thusi’s career began to take shape during her teenage years when she ventured into modeling. In 2003, she participated in the Miss South African Teens pageant, securing the first runner-up position at the age of 15. This achievement opened doors for her in the modeling industry, leading to magazine covers, advertisements, and appearances in music videos and local and international shows.
Pearl Thusi’s talent and charisma quickly transcended modeling, propelling her into various media roles. She hosted shows such as Lip Sync Battle Africa on MTV and e.tv, Moments on EbonyLife TV, and the celebrity gossip magazine show Real Goboza on SABC 1. Her acting career also flourished as she portrayed Palesa Motaung in the soap opera Isidingo and appeared in projects like The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, Tremors 5: Bloodlines, and Catching Feelings.
In 2016, Pearl Thusi achieved a breakthrough when she joined the second season of the ABC thriller series Quantico, starring opposite Priyanka Chopra. Her performance garnered critical acclaim. She continued to shine in the entertainment industry, featuring in various films and co-hosting MTV Base’s Behind the Story.
Pearl’s most significant achievement came with her portrayal of Queen Sono in the Netflix crime drama series of the same name. The show premiered in 2020 and received widespread praise, solidifying Pearl’s position as a talented actress. Despite its cancellation due to pandemic-related production issues, the series was a testament to her growing global appeal.
Pearl Thusi’s personal life has been a subject of interest to many. She was romantically involved with sports anchor Walter Mokoena, with whom she shares a daughter named Thandolwethu Mokoena. She was also briefly engaged to veteran sportscaster Robert Marawa. Throughout her journey, Pearl has maintained a strong presence on social media platforms, engaging with her fans on Instagram (@pearlthusi) and Twitter (@PearlThusi).
Conclusion
Pearl Thusi’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. From a challenging childhood to becoming a renowned actress and media personality, she has defied the odds and left an indelible mark on South Africa’s entertainment industry. With her talent, charisma, and global recognition, Pearl Thusi continues to inspire many aspiring artists to chase their dreams and make a difference in the world of showbiz.
FAQs
Who is Pearl Thusi, and what is she known for?
Pearl Thusi, born Sithembile Xola Pearl Thusi on May 13, 1988, in KwaNdengezi, Durban, South Africa, is a renowned actress, model, television host, and radio personality. She gained international recognition for her roles as Patricia Kopong in the BBC/HBO series The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, Dayana Mampasi in ABC’s Quantico, and as the lead in Netflix’s first African original series, Queen Sono.
What is Pearl Thusi’s estimated net worth as of 2025?
As of 2025, Pearl Thusi’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million. Her wealth stems from her successful career in acting, modeling, television hosting, and various endorsements
What is Pearl Thusi’s educational background?
Pearl Thusi attended Pinetown Girls’ High School and began her tertiary education at the University of the Witwatersrand. She later resumed her studies at the University of South Africa in 2020 to accommodate her burgeoning career in the entertainment industry.
Can you name some notable projects Pearl Thusi has been involved in?
Pearl Thusi has an impressive portfolio, including roles in films like Tremors 5: Bloodlines, Catching Feelings, Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu, The Scorpion King: Book of Souls, Bulletproof 2, and Fistful of Vengeance. On television, she has hosted shows such as Live Amp, Real Goboza, Lip Sync Battle Africa, and Behind the Story.
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