Culture Craze
The F-Show on Showmax: Why South Africans Are Finally Laughing About Money
Money is one of those topics we’d rather sweep under the rug. In many South African households, talking about finances feels more awkward than sitting through a family meeting. But what if money lessons were delivered with punchlines instead of PowerPoints? Enter The F-Show, Sanlam’s bold comedy special that takes on the so-called “dirtiest word” in South Africa: finances.
From theatre seats to streaming screens
Before landing on Showmax, The F-Show sold out three consecutive nights at Theatre on the Square in Johannesburg. The stage was owned by multi-award-winning comedian Mpho “Popps” Modikoane, alongside the razor-sharp Khanyisa Bunu and Vafa Naraghi. Each act was loaded with personal finance wisdom, scripted with input from author and financial expert Sam Beckbessinger, but served up in a way that had audiences roaring with laughter.
Now that the special is streaming, the whole country gets to join in. Within its first week, The F-Show shot to the number one spot on Showmax, proving that South Africans are hungry for money talk, just not in the traditional, lecture-style format.
Why humour works where lectures fail
Sanlam’s Chief Marketing Officer, Mariska Oosthuizen, says humour is the perfect tool for tricky conversations. Research backs it up too: talking about money openly improves mental well-being, relationships, and financial outcomes. But the stigma around discussing salaries, debt, and savings runs deep.
Popps knows this firsthand. He grew up in a family where money was never discussed, which made adulthood financially difficult. “Now, I make sure to talk openly with my wife and daughter,” he explained. “We have to normalise these chats. It’s the only way to break the cycle.”
Sanlam’s own research revealed that six out of ten South Africans grew up in homes where money wasn’t spoken about. That silence has consequences. Beckbessinger, who helped shape the lessons behind the comedy, says shame and fear keep people from facing financial realities. Comedy, she believes, disarms those emotions and makes space for learning.
Social reaction: “Finally, money feels normal”
South Africans on social media have praised the show for making the “untouchable” subject of money feel relatable. Memes, clips, and tweets are already doing the rounds, sparking conversations in homes and workplaces, with viewers saying it is refreshing to laugh while learning about money.
Beyond laughs: Building financial confidence
While the one-liners keep audiences hooked, the message behind The F-Show is serious. Financial stress isolates many people, yet the show reminds us that most South Africans share the same struggles. Opening up is the first step to finding solutions.
Sanlam hopes the show will spark ongoing conversations, not just laughs. Oosthuizen believes humour helps break the taboo and makes it easier for families, friends, and even colleagues to support each other. The end goal is financial confidence: living securely and planning with hope instead of fear.
Don’t miss it
From packed theatres in Sandton to trending at the top of Showmax, The F-Show proves that South Africans are ready to laugh, learn, and finally say the F-word out loud: finances.
Catch The F-Show, now streaming on Showmax, and keep an eye on Sanlam’s platforms for more
Also read: Naledi Aphiwe Shows Gratitude and Grit with Parents’ Home Renovation at 19
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: FootNotes Media
