Quick Summary
Candy Litchfield is a former South African model, TV presenter, and media personality best known for co-hosting the first season of Idols SA and her work on shows like Lotto and Flash. She gained fame in the early 2000s but has since kept a low profile, maintaining her privacy while raising her two children. Married to actor Hlomla Dandala, their relationship ended in a high-profile divorce in 2013. Today, Candy lives a quiet life away from the public eye, focusing on her family and personal pursuits.
Candy Litchfield is a name that might ring a bell for fans of South African television and entertainment. Known for her time as a model, TV presenter, and as the host of the first season of Idols SA, Litchfield has made a lasting impact in the media industry. While she has stayed out of the limelight in recent years, her story is one worth telling. From her career milestones to her personal life, Candy’s journey has been filled with highs, lows, and lessons along the way.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything there is to know about Candy Litchfield—her age, career, marriage to actor Hlomla Dandala, children, and how she manages to live a private life despite her celebrity status. Let’s dive in!
Who Is Candy Litchfield?
Early Life and Background
Candy Litchfield is a former professional model and a prominent TV personality from South Africa. While specific details about her early life are somewhat private, her career in the entertainment industry began in the early 1990s. Born and raised in Swaziland (now Eswatini), Candy’s charm and presence on screen quickly caught the attention of many in the South African media landscape.
Her rise to fame began with a major achievement—winning the Miss Swaziland title in 1992. This success earned her a spot in the Miss World competition, a move that set the stage for her future endeavors in both modeling and television.
After her time in the pageant world, Candy made the bold decision to pursue a career in broadcasting. She worked as a presenter at Swazi TV, where she honed her skills in front of the camera. However, her ambitions led her to Johannesburg, where she sought greater opportunities to expand her career and education. This move marked the beginning of her path in television broadcasting and solidified her as one of South Africa’s beloved TV personalities.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Candy Litchfield’s career took a leap forward when she joined Channel O, one of South Africa’s leading music and entertainment channels. With her bubbly personality and magnetic presence, she quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing her talent as a host. She was known for her effortless style and engaging manner, which made her a perfect fit for presenting shows in the entertainment industry.
In 2002, M-Net approached her to co-host the first season of Idols SA, alongside Matthew Stewardson. The show, which was based on the popular American Idol format, became an instant hit, and Candy’s role as a host made her a household name. Her career continued to flourish as she later hosted other notable shows, including Lotto on eTV (2004–2006) and the South African gossip series Flash starting in 2009.
With her career soaring, Candy quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in South African entertainment. She had a natural ability to connect with her audience, which helped her maintain a strong presence in the public eye throughout her career.
Candy Litchfield’s Age and Personal Life
How Old Is Candy Litchfield?
Candy Litchfield is known for her private nature, and she has kept many aspects of her personal life out of the public eye. Unfortunately, details regarding her exact age are not publicly available, and Candy has never openly discussed her birthdate. However, based on her career timeline, which started in the early 1990s, it’s speculated that she could be in her late forties or early fifties today.
Her age remains a mystery, but what is clear is that Candy has managed to maintain a youthful appearance and stay relevant in the entertainment world, regardless of the years that have passed since her rise to fame.
Marital Life and Divorce from Hlomla Dandala
Candy Litchfield’s marriage to South African actor and TV presenter Hlomla Dandala was one of the most talked-about relationships in the entertainment industry. The couple tied the knot in December 2000, marking the beginning of a long journey together that would include two children. Hlomla, well-known for his roles in TV shows like Isidingo, Jacob’s Cross, and The River, was at the height of his career when they married.
However, their marriage was not without its challenges. In 2005, rumors began circulating about a separation after Hlomla was seen with Nkele Motsomi, a former Miss South Africa finalist. The couple briefly separated in 2004, and although they reconciled later, their relationship faced further difficulties. The couple eventually divorced in 2013, ending their marriage after more than a decade together.
While the reasons behind their divorce remain somewhat unclear, it was widely reported that Candy had filed a suit in 2014 for child maintenance issues, which further complicated their relationship. Despite the separation, Hlomla granted Candy full custody of their children and agreed to visitation rights. The legal battles between the couple over child support were highly publicized, with Candy claiming that Hlomla had failed to pay child support for several months.
Their divorce marked the end of an era, and both Candy and Hlomla have since kept their personal lives private.
Candy Litchfield’s Children
How Many Children Does Candy Litchfield Have?
Candy Litchfield is a proud mother of two children. Her eldest child, Ziyanda Dandala, was born toward the end of 2003. She later had a second child, though details about their names and exact birthdates are kept out of the public eye. As a mother, Candy has chosen to keep her children’s lives private, rarely sharing details about them with the media.
Her decision to maintain her children’s privacy reflects her desire to shield them from the spotlight, allowing them to grow up away from the constant attention that comes with being the child of a public figure. It’s clear that Candy places great importance on her children’s well-being and privacy, often opting not to expose them to the scrutiny that comes with fame.
Her Divorce and Child Support Lawsuit
The public legal battle between Candy and her ex-husband, Hlomla Dandala, became a major part of their post-divorce narrative. In 2014, Candy filed a lawsuit for child support, citing that Hlomla had failed to meet his financial obligations for their two children. This case, which gained significant media attention, was a reflection of the challenges that come with co-parenting in the public eye.
Candy alleged that Hlomla had not paid child support for several months, accumulating an arrears of R56,000. She took him to court after several attempts to settle the matter outside of legal proceedings failed. The lawsuit was a stark reminder of the difficulties that arise in divorce and child support situations, especially when both parties are public figures.
Despite the turmoil of the legal proceedings, Candy’s primary concern remained her children, and she continued to raise them with love and care away from the media’s gaze.
Candy Litchfield’s Career Highlights and Contributions
Candy Litchfield’s career is a testament to her versatility and dedication within the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has made a name for herself as a model, TV presenter, and media personality. Each stage of her career has contributed to her lasting impact on South African television and pop culture.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Candy’s professional journey began in 1992 when she was crowned Miss Swaziland, which earned her a spot in the Miss World competition. This early success in the pageant world gave her the platform to explore other opportunities. Soon after, she ventured into broadcasting and became a popular figure at Swazi TV, where she worked as a TV presenter.
Her move to Johannesburg proved to be a defining moment in her career. After enrolling in studies related to film, radio, and television, Candy found herself working with Channel O, one of Africa’s top entertainment networks. Her role as a presenter allowed her to build a significant fan base due to her charismatic and approachable personality.
Idols SA and Other Major Projects
One of the most significant milestones in Candy Litchfield’s career came in 2002 when she was chosen to co-host the inaugural season of Idols SA. The singing competition was a huge success, and Candy’s role as the host introduced her to millions of viewers across the country. Her ability to engage with contestants and viewers alike made her one of the most loved faces on South African TV.
In addition to Idols SA, Candy worked on a variety of other shows throughout her career, such as Lotto on eTV from 2004 to 2006. She also went on to host the popular South African gossip show Flash in 2009, further solidifying her place in the South African entertainment industry.
Her versatility as a presenter allowed her to move between genres seamlessly—from reality shows to news and entertainment. This flexibility made her one of the most recognized TV personalities of her time.
Candy Litchfield’s Net Worth and Financial Status
While Candy Litchfield has always kept a relatively low profile when it comes to her financial situation, her career in the entertainment industry undoubtedly brought her financial success. She worked for several prestigious television networks and hosted high-profile shows, which likely contributed to her wealth.
Estimating Candy’s Net Worth
Though her exact net worth isn’t publicly confirmed, it’s clear that Candy made a considerable amount of money throughout her career. The lucrative opportunities she had as a presenter, model, and television host suggest that she enjoyed a successful financial life. Earnings from Idols SA, Flash, and Lotto would have been major contributors to her financial portfolio.
Candy’s wealth is also likely supplemented by other income streams, such as endorsements and personal projects. However, due to her private nature, she has chosen not to disclose her net worth in detail. Public estimates for celebrities in her field generally range between $500,000 and $1 million, but without exact figures, this remains speculative.
Financial Challenges
Candy’s financial situation became more public during her divorce proceedings with Hlomla Dandala. The child support lawsuit that Candy filed in 2014 highlighted the financial struggles she faced after their separation. Her efforts to ensure proper financial support for their children were a key point in her post-divorce life, demonstrating her dedication to providing for her family even after her marriage ended.
Candy Litchfield’s Social Media and Public Image
Candy Litchfield has always been careful about maintaining her privacy, particularly when it comes to her social media presence. In an era where many celebrities thrive on their online following, Candy has chosen a different path. She does not have public social media accounts, which is rare for someone in the entertainment industry.
Avoiding the Spotlight on Social Media
In a world where many celebrities constantly update their social media profiles to stay connected with their fans, Candy has opted to stay out of the online spotlight. She has kept a low digital profile, which contrasts sharply with the more open and accessible approach of other public figures. This decision may reflect her preference for privacy and a desire to protect her family from the pressures of fame.
Managing Public Image
Despite her lack of social media presence, Candy has managed to maintain a positive public image. She is widely regarded as a professional and respectful figure in the South African entertainment industry. Her career choices, interviews, and the few public appearances she has made have painted her as a reliable, approachable, and competent media personality.
Her ability to stay out of the gossip columns and maintain a balanced personal and professional life has earned her respect from both her peers and the public. In many ways, this careful management of her public image has allowed her to remain relevant even after stepping back from the spotlight.
Candy Litchfield’s Legacy and Current Life
Though Candy Litchfield has largely retreated from the public eye, her legacy in the South African entertainment world remains intact. As a former Idols SA host and a successful television personality, she helped shape the landscape of reality TV and entertainment in South Africa.
Current Life: A Low-Key Lifestyle
Today, Candy enjoys a quieter life. She has largely stepped away from television and public appearances, choosing instead to focus on her family and personal endeavors. Her private nature means that she rarely appears in the media or makes public statements, which only adds to her mystique and charm.
While her career may have slowed down, Candy’s contributions to South African television continue to influence the industry. She remains a beloved figure among fans who remember her time as a TV host and personality.
A Role Model for Aspiring Personalities
Candy’s story is also one of resilience. She entered the entertainment industry during a time when opportunities for women, particularly in South Africa, were still developing. Over the years, she became a role model for aspiring TV hosts, models, and other entertainers. Her ability to balance a successful career with her personal life, even in the face of challenges like divorce and legal battles, has made her a figure of admiration.
Conclusion
Candy Litchfield’s life is one marked by triumphs, challenges, and a dedication to her craft. From her humble beginnings in Swaziland to becoming a household name in South Africa’s entertainment industry, she has consistently shown resilience and professionalism. Her career in television, especially her role in Idols SA, helped shape the entertainment landscape of South Africa.
Even though she has chosen a more private life in recent years, Candy’s contributions to television and her legacy as a TV personality are undeniable. She remains an influential figure in the entertainment industry, inspiring both those who have worked with her and the fans who have followed her journey.
Whether you know her from Idols SA, Flash, or other projects, Candy Litchfield will always be remembered for her contributions to South African television and her role in entertaining and inspiring millions of viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Candy Litchfield?
Candy Litchfield is a South African former model, TV presenter, and media personality. She gained widespread recognition as a co-host of the first season of Idols SA in 2002, and later worked on other popular television shows like Lotto on eTV and Flash, a South African gossip series. Throughout her career, she became a beloved figure due to her charismatic personality and professionalism.
2. How old is Candy Litchfield?
Candy Litchfield has managed to keep her age and date of birth private, but based on her career timeline, she is believed to be in her late forties or early fifties. She started her career in the entertainment industry in the early 1990s, which places her around that age range.
3. Is Candy Litchfield married?
Candy Litchfield was previously married to South African actor and TV presenter Hlomla Dandala. They married in December 2000 but later divorced in 2013 after several separations. The couple has two children together, and their divorce was finalized with Candy gaining full custody of their children.
4. Does Candy Litchfield have children?
Yes, Candy Litchfield has two children with her ex-husband Hlomla Dandala. Their first child, Ziyanda Dandala, was born in late 2003. The couple had their second child after their first public separation. Despite her celebrity status, Candy has kept her children’s lives private, and they are not often featured in the media.
5. What is Candy Litchfield’s career background?
Candy Litchfield began her career in the entertainment industry in 1992, when she won the Miss Swaziland title and participated in the Miss World competition. She later moved to Johannesburg, where she worked as a TV presenter for Swazi TV and later joined Channel O. She also co-hosted the first season of Idols SA and worked on shows like Lotto on eTV and Flash.
6. Does Candy Litchfield use social media?
Candy Litchfield is known for keeping a low profile and maintaining privacy in her personal life. She does not have public social media accounts and has largely stayed out of the social media spotlight. Her choice to remain away from platforms like Instagram and Twitter is a reflection of her desire to keep her life private.
7. What is Candy Litchfield’s net worth?
Candy Litchfield’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, but her long career in media, including her work as a host on shows like Idols SA and Lotto, has likely contributed to a comfortable financial standing. While there are no confirmed figures, it is speculated that her wealth is in the range of $500,000 to $1 million.
8. What is Candy Litchfield doing now?
After stepping away from the public spotlight, Candy Litchfield now leads a quieter life, focusing on her family and personal pursuits. She has maintained a low profile and is rarely seen in the media. However, her legacy as a TV personality remains influential in South African entertainment.
9. Why did Candy Litchfield divorce Hlomla Dandala?
Candy and Hlomla’s marriage faced many challenges, leading to their eventual divorce in 2013. While the exact reasons for their split remain private, issues such as child maintenance, as well as their public separations in 2005 and 2013, were factors that contributed to the end of their marriage.
10. What is Candy Litchfield’s legacy?
Candy Litchfield’s legacy in South African television is defined by her role in shaping the country’s entertainment landscape, particularly through her work on Idols SA and other major television projects. Her professional approach, charisma, and positive public image have earned her a lasting place in the hearts of South African viewers.
Author’s Note
Thank you for taking the time to read through this comprehensive guide on Candy Litchfield’s life and career. As an influential figure in South African television, Candy’s story is a testament to how personal and professional resilience can shape a public persona, even in the face of challenges. While Candy has chosen to keep much of her life private, her contributions to media and entertainment are undeniable.
I hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of who Candy Litchfield is, her journey in the entertainment world, and the choices she’s made to protect her privacy. If you have any further questions or thoughts, feel free to leave a comment. Your feedback is always appreciated!
Stay tuned for more in-depth profiles of inspiring individuals, and don’t forget to share this article with others who may find it insightful.
Oliver is a full-time writer with a passion for creating compelling content on diverse topics, including finance, business, product reviews, and more. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to thorough research, she brings clarity and depth to complex subjects, making them accessible and engaging for readers. Oliver’s dedication to her craft ensures that every article is informative, well-researched, and thought-provoking. Outside of writing, she enjoys exploring new ideas, reading extensively, and continually expanding her knowledge.
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