South Africans vote for their Top 10 Idols

Johannesburg - South Africa held its collective breath on Sunday as 16 were cut down to 10, with host Proverb delivering news that was a blessing to some and a blow to others.

But before the big chop, Group 1’s eight contestants took to the stage one last time as a squad for a rendition of Bruno Mars’ That’s What I Like.

Soon enough, hearts were in throats as Proverb came on with a drum roll. Season 13’s youngest contestant, Paxton, was the first person to occupy a chair in the Winners’ Circle. She wasn’t alone for long, as Phindy, Faith and Thokozile joined her. The ladies were showing a strong presence.

Lindo, Christo, Blessed and Gugu Zulu didn’t garner enough votes, leaving their faith in the hands of the judges who had two saves to round off the Top 10.

To give everyone a breather from the nerves, Group 2 took to the stage to perform Black Box’s ever-green hit, Fantasy. Soon after, Proverb delivered good news to the ecstatic Mthokozisi and Botlhale, who became the first guys to make the Top 10.

After more heart-stopping pauses from Proverb, Thapelo and Tee got the thumbs up but Gabi, Hadassah, Basetsana and Minnie were left crossing fingers to be on the judges’ “save” list.

The judges rounded off the Top 10 by saving Lindo and Christo, making it a clean sweep for all the guys in the competition.

Randall, who has been sitting at the judges’ table the longest, had this sage advice: “After 12 seasons, you can forget just what an impact Idols has. Grab this opportunity with both hands and make it work for you!”

Here are the top 10:

Paxton Fielies
Phindy Dube
Faith Msibi
Thokozile Ndimande
Mthokozisi Ndaba
Botlhale Phora
Thapelo Esau
Tee Xaba
Lindo Sithole
Christo Daniels

Catch Idols SA Sundays at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161).