Danny Painter Reflects On 20 Incredible Years In The South African Entertainment Industry

Danny Painter, a beloved figure in South Africa’s entertainment landscape, marks an incredible milestone as she celebrates 20 years of dedication and success in the industry.

From her humble beginnings on stage at the age of 6 to becoming a prominent voice on radio and television, Danny’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

Reflecting on 20 years in the entertainment business, Danny Painter expresses profound gratitude for the journey she’s travelled. “These past two decades have been filled with incredible experiences and opportunities that have shaped me both personally and professionally,” says Painter.

“I am immensely proud of the milestones I’ve achieved and the relationships I’ve built along the way. Being part of the Jacaranda FM family has been something I am so grateful for. It’s an honour to work alongside such talented individuals and be part of an award-winning team that continues to inspire and innovate in the world of radio.”

Danny’s career began after a chance encounter led her to join the teen channel ‘GO’ on DStv in her matric year, propelling her into the world of radio and television. Over the years, she hosted various shows on different platforms, including the flagship magazine show ‘Vicious Delicious’ and SABC 2’s live daily kids TV show ‘World of Winners’. Danny then went on to star in South Africa’s first animated series, ‘Captain Zaka’.

Danny continued to fall in love with media after she was introduced to the world of radio where she appeared on a number of regional and community stations before joining the Jacaranda FM family in 2018. Today, Danny hosts the wildly popular ‘Love Songs With Danny Painter’ show every Monday – Thursday between 19:00 and 22:00 and The CTM Top 40 on Saturdays between 10:00 and 14:00 on Jacaranda FM.

When asked about her illustrious career so far, Danny shares, “I’ve been fortunate to interview some of the biggest stars, attend prestigious award ceremonies, and forge lasting friendships with inspiring individuals.” Her journey includes being the first South African to be slimed at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, starring in a movie featured at an international film festival, lending her voice to Ubisoft’s ‘Beyond Good and Evil’ video game, releasing four singles, and hosting DUB’s birthday festival with a 9-hour live broadcast on Camps Bay beach.

Danny adds “I am so privileged to have had the career that I have, I worked hard and sacrificed a lot, and I think that’s something we don’t often acknowledge, the blood, sweat and tears. I missed things like my Matric farewell, parties, normal teenage things, but in making those choices I also set myself up in a career that has served me and blessed me endlessly!’ she says. “I wouldn’t change a thing, every ‘no’ pushed me to a ‘yes’ and every yes elevated me to another level. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 looks like! I have a feeling it’s about to be bigger and better than I could ever have imagined!.”

Danny has also had many incredible opportunities to interview some of the biggest stars on the planet, has attended some of the world’s best shows and award ceremonies and filmed in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Some interview highlights include chats with Steve Aoki, Morgan Freeman, Slash, James Blunt, Becky Hill, Neon Dreams, Saxby Twins and Mopreme Shakur – the brother of legendary hip-hop star Tupac.

However, it’s the connections she’s made that have been the most memorable looking back. “I have met some truly inspiring humans throughout my career, humans remain in my life until today and have been there from the very beginning,” Danny shares. “People that have millions and millions of followers and I have to pinch myself every time I WhatsApp them! I think the highlight of my career has and will always be the friendships I make.”

“I owe a debt of gratitude to my mom, Sandy Ngwenya, whose unwavering support made it all possible,” Danny acknowledges. Despite the challenges of the industry, she remains proud of her resilience and determination to succeed in every endeavour, whether on radio, TV, singing, or acting.  

Looking ahead, Danny is enthusiastic about embarking on new projects. “I am venturing into the world of audiobooks and have just completed my second. I would like to voice more video games and I will definitely be back in studio recording a new song in the coming months!” Danny shares. “But, right now I am thrilled to be a part of the Jacaranda FM family! It’s such an honour to be a part of an award winning team of some of the greatest names in radio.”

Listen to Danny Painter on ‘Love Songs With Danny Painter’ every Monday – Thursday between 19:00 and 22:00 and on The CTM Top 40 with Danny Painter every Saturday between 10:00 and 14:00 on Jacaranda FM.