A few weeks ago, we heard that local media darling Anele Mdoda would be heading to Los Angeles to host the 2019 Oscars red carpet interviews with M-Net and DStv. For her, it’s an absolute dream come true. For us back in SA, we couldn’t be more proud!
We caught up with Anele to find out more about how she’s preparing for the big event and – most importantly – who she’ll be wearing…
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The Oscars Run-Up…
Q: How does it feel to be off to the Oscars? You must be ecstatic!
A: I am beyond stoked. It’s my favourite awards show because I’m such a movie fanatic! I’ve watched the Oscars for as long as I can remember and, to be honest, have always put it out there that one day I want to attend – be it working, hosting, winning, or just something!
Q: How are you preparing for your interviews? Are you burying yourself in research, watching dozens of movies? Finding out as much as you can about this year’s ceremony?
A: DStv Box Office has been kind enough to have some nominated movies available and I have also hit the cinema to watch all the nominated films. I also watched the SAG Awards, The BAFTAs, The Golden Globes as well as dozens of interviews with the nominated directors and actors. The team from M-Net have me clued up and they have a great plan for the red carpet show.
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Q: How are you getting yourself ready? Any last-minute trips to the hair or nail salon?
A: Well, it’s really the normal things – a fresh cut with my hair and simple nails that I can work in. Practicality will always win with me; my make up and dress will hero the day.
Q: What are you packing with you? The three things you can’t leave without?
A: My phone, THE DRESS. I’m not even going to check that in, I’m taking it as carry-on luggage. I’m not risking anything. Then, I’ll also be taking my notebook that I have been jotting down questions in since I discovered I was doing the carpet.
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On The Night…
Q: Who are you wearing? Is it Juan William Aria? [Anele’s go-to local designer for evening wear]
A: You guessed right! I had my final fitting a few days ago and I’m so happy.
Q: How are you going to combat the nerves?
A: The same way I combat them on the 947 Breakfast Club and The Voice: a quick prayer and the belief that I belong there.
Q: Who are you most looking forward to meeting and interviewing?
A: There’s a long list. Rami Malek, Spike Lee, Mahershala Ali, Bradley Cooper, Glenn Close, the entire Black Panther cast and Denzel Washington – I hope he attends. His son’s movie is nominated, so perhaps we will be lucky.
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Q: What are your red-carpet beauty tips?
A: Short hair! It’s going to be very hot, so the sweat will find me 🙂
ALSO SEE: The Top Makeup Trends for 2019
The 91st Academy Awards (Oscars) will air live at 3am on Monday 25 February on M-Net Movies Premiere, DStv channel 104. A delayed Prime Time broadcast that evening will air at 9pm on M-Net, DStv channel 101.
By Features Editor, Stephanie van der Plank
