Google’s 2025 Year in Search report has revealed the topics, personalities, and moments that captured South Africans’ attention this year. Among the top-searched actors and actresses, Makoto Phumodi stood out, reflecting her growing prominence in both reality TV and local entertainment conversations.
While international stars such as Aaron Pierre, Jason Statham, Tyler Perry, Miles Teller, Jacob Elordi, Josh Duhamel, and Dave Bautista captured global attention, it was Phumodi who became a trending search locally, thanks to her participation in Married at First Sight South Africa Season 2.
Airing on Mzansi Magic and streaming on Showmax, Phumodi’s journey from single participant to legally married partner to Nkuleleko Mahlangu sparked intense online discussions. Viewers turned to Google to follow every twist and revelation, from baby mama controversies and polygamy debates to fiery conversations on religion and sex.
Phumodi explained why she joined the show: “I decided to take part in Married at First Sight Season 2 because I wanted to try something different, I wanted to look for love in an unconventional way.” Her honesty and openness resonated with audiences, driving her to become one of South Africa’s most searched public figures in 2025.
Her rise in Google searches sits alongside celebrated actors like Presley Chweneyagae and Don Mlangeni, who were also top-trending in 2025. While international actors like Aaron Pierre dominated global social media conversations, Phumodi’s relatable personality and reality TV exposure ensured she remained a household name locally.
Kabelo Makwane, Country Director for Google South Africa, noted: “Year in Search continues to highlight what matters most to South Africans. From celebrating our icons to navigating everyday life, Search remains a trusted tool helping people explore, learn, and stay connected.”
As Married at First Sight SA continues to unfold, Makoto Phumodi’s visibility online demonstrates the power of reality TV to drive engagement—and how Google searches reflect the nation’s curiosity about love, drama, and cultural conversation.
