Top Billing presenter Jonathan Boynton-Lee has paid tribute to his late co-star, Simba Mhere, after the luxury lifestyle TV programme returned to TV screens last week.
The bubbly TV personality – who won a presenter search in 2010 – was killed in a car crash in 2015, alongside his friend, Kady-Shay O’Bryan.
Their vehicle was hit by a speeding motorist.
TOP BILLING PRESENTER REMEMBERS LATE CO-STAR
Last week, Top Billing returned to screens after being off air for six years.
The popular luxury lifestyle TV programme featured a mix of old and new faces.
One of the returning hosts was Jonathan Boynton-Lee, who joined show veterans Dr Michael Mol and Basetsana Kumalo.
Jonathan, who won a presenter search in 2012, marked the occasion by remembering his late co-presenter, Simba Mhere, who was tragically killed 11 years ago.
The duo were known for their bromance, both onscreen and off.
Sharing a clip of him with his best friend, Jonathan posted: “Tonight, we step into a beautiful new era of Top Billing. Let’s never forget one of the best to ever do it, Simba Mhere ❤️🩹”
Many industry peers, including new Top Billing presenters Zozi Tunzi and Bryoni Govender, liked the post.
SIMBA MHERE: GONE TOO SOON
On 31 January 2015, Simba Mhere and Kady Shay O’Brien were killed in a head-on collision with two other cars on William Nicol Drive in Fourways, Johannesburg. The duo – accompanied by Simba’s dad, Joseph, who survived – were en route to OR Tambo Airport to catch an early morning flight.
According to the Sowetan, Preshalin Naidoo – who lost control of his car and was later accused of being intoxicated – was found guilty of two counts of culpable homicide in 2018. He was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment. It’s unclear if he is still behind bars.
The family of the Top Billing star accepted the sentencing. Joseph said at the time, “I think it’s appropriate. It won’t bring life back. But it sends out the message to road users to take responsibility for what they do on the roads.
Simba Mhere was buried a week after his death at Westpark Cemetery.
His funeral service was conducted by the late Rhema Church founder, Ray McCauley, and was attended by Simba’s family and many celebrity friends.
Jonathan Boynton-Lee has often used his platform to share his fond memories of Simba.
