I have been in hibernation for the last month or so and I was shocked to find out last Friday evening that Bonang was leaving the television show Live, I haven’t been on twitter as much either so I kind of missed the twitter hype around this.

I am so happy for Bonang, I was actually thinking a few months ago that now would be a good time for her to leave the show and try something new because she has so much more to offer viewers and her fans. She took the opportunity that Live gave her and catapulted it to new heights. I doubt I will be watching Live now or the new version of it, simply because Bonang and her fashion ensembles were the draw card for me. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us.

Below is a letter she posted on her blog to her fans: heartfelt & grateful

After 5 years on the BIGGEST music show in the land, I’ve finally decided to depart to start a brand new journey. This wasn’t an easy decision for me, but it was a decision I had to make nonetheless.

It’s been an unforgettable 5 years, filled with lots of drama, hardwork, lots of emotion and lots of smiles and tears. Live has changed my life so much- because of this amazing platform, I was able to fulfill my wildest dreams: having my own clothing range, my own radio show, countless endorsements deals, my own fashion line- Baby Star Fashions and ultimately my own production company- Bonang Matheba Entertainment. I have watched myself transform from a wide eyed 18 year-old, to a successful 25 year-old Executive Producer and businesswoman. The lessons I’ve learnt, the people I have met and the places I have travelled will forever remain in my heart. Words can’t even describe the LOVE I have for that show- for 5 years, it was the only thing I knew, the only thing I thought about, it was everything I loved and it was everything I looked forward to, so the decision to leave was not only painful but it was also very scary for me. I’m about to jump into unknown territory and for anyone that has moved jobs, started a new relationship, moved house or broken up with someone they loved, you’ll understand the emotions that come with such a big transition..I am, however super ready for this new chapter in my life.

The new chapter includes a new tv show which will will air on SABC 1 in November 2012, a new fragrance and a new handbag range all launching end of 2012.

It is a VERY big step for me but one that was very necessary- this isn’t the end of a relationship, merely a wonderful transition. I will be back on your screens in a couple of weeks so don’t despair. We ALL need to grow as individuals, we need to move out of our comfort zones and see what else the world has in store- it’s never easy, but the shock doesn’t last forever.

I’d like to thank YOU for the endless support, the unconditional love and the constant “we’re right behind you B*’. I wouldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for you. I always say I am who I am because of my supporters, my honey bees..Thank you for taking time to read this letter, thank you for tuning into Live every Friday night, thank you for listening to my radio show every weekend, for buying the magazines, reading the interviews and for sending me all those amazing letters and words of encouragement via Twitter and Facebook. Thank you for allowing me into your life and reminding me how much my work means to you. Thank you for defending me and for standing right by my side when you didn’t need to..

I love the LOVE, I notice it, I see it and it means so much to me..

Here’s to another 5 years of making great televison and kick ass entertainment..

I’m back in your tv rooms very soon, let the countdown begin..

Love, Light and Strength- Ur girl B*