We were greeted with a smile and a quick flash of the camera, and after selecting a comfy seat we enjoyed watching the finale with the Top Billing crew, the contestants themselves, media representatives and VIP guests. All the while we enjoyed delicious canapés and our choice of drinks while the show was played on a big screen at the venue - pretty much exactly what you would expect from an event hosted by Top Billing and SABC3 I'd say!
The final four included Zama, who was a hot contender from the start as she had the most presenting experience - not to mention oodles of confidence; Chamendran, the sexy doctor with a great sense of humour; bubby Lynelle with her golden voice and gorgeous curls and Jonathan with his boyish charm and dashing good looks. The ultimate decision came down to the final challenge where the each of them had the chance to present a show by themselves, and although each contestant did very well, Jonathan was exceptional.
Judge and co-executive producer of Top Billing, Patience Stevens said, "Right from the start when he first auditioned in Johannesburg we recognised something special in him - especially the way he spoke to us from the heart - but like the others nine finalists, he was put through his paces until we were absolutely sure he was exactly what we wanted for Top Billing."
Top Billing presenter Jeannie D commented on the judging process by saying that the winner was selected by a collaboration of the judges' votes as well as My Top Billing Dream social media followers' comments.
It wasn't all smooth sailing for Jonathan. In week five he found himself in the bottom three after his adventure challenge of land yachting. Luckily he was spared by the judges and was more determined than ever to pull out all the stops for the finale. On the night he gave it his all and accompanied singer Paige Mac on the piano - proving what an all-round talent he is. "It was pretty nerve-wracking", he said. "My mom was there and you know how it is when your mom's around - since I was a little boy I always wanted to make her proud."
As for hearing his name called out as the winner, Jonathan said everything was such a blur and that he can't even remember it happening! "I can't even remember what I did when my name was called out. My mom came up and hugged me, but other than that, I can't remember a thing. I've never been so overwhelmed with emotion. My body didn't know how to react. It still hasn't sunk in. How does an actor feel after winning an Oscar? How does an Olympic athlete feel after winning the gold? It's indescribable - it doesn't feel real."
We say well done to a very humble and deserving winner - we can't wait to see more of Jonathan! Congratulations on behalf of Bizcommunity.com!
Watch Top Billing tonight at 8pm on SABC3 to catch a glimpse of Jonathan's home life.
Images by: Günther Schubert-Laubscher
