Cindy Mahlangu, a South African actress and model, has been announced as a judge for the upcoming Miss South Africa 2025 pageant.

The news was met with mixed reactions on social media, with some people questioning her suitability for the role. Cindy is known for her roles in popular South African series such as Blood & Water and The Queen.

The Miss South Africa 2025 pageant is scheduled to take place on October 25, 2025, at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria. The event will be broadcast live on Mzansi Magic, and the winner will go on to represent South Africa in international beauty competitions.

This year’s pageant marks a new era under the organisation’s Empower Youth Africa mandate, focusing on empowering young women to become leaders and change-makers.

Cindy Mahlangu to judge the 2025 Miss South Africa grand finale. pic.twitter.com/VHb7TPW02a

— Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) October 22, 2025

Social media users did not take it well, one user said: “They don’t pick for fame. A judge is chosen because she must have confidence, respect and a good heart. Someone young girls can look up to, speak well, and inspire others, so I guess. It’s not just about beauty. It’s also about character and how she carries herself.”

Another one stated: “This year’s Miss SA is boring. No Miss Universe license. No Miss Supranational license. They lost the Miss World license a long time ago. Now there is a new organisation, Miss Universe South Africa, and they might be sending their chosen rep to the competition next month.”

One Asked: “On what grounds. She’s an actor and not a famous one at that. In what capacity is she a judge?”

One wrote: “Somebody, please school us on the requirements for being a judge at these pageant events.”