From the end of June, Sunday evenings will never be the same. Everyone’s favourite woman, Ruda Landman is leaving M-Net’s popular actuality show, Carte Blanche, after nearly two decades with the program.
M-Net’s head of original programmes, Carl Fischer, has said that Ruda’s departure will leave a “significant gap in the local television industry.”
Carte Blanche’s executive producer, George Mazarakis, has said that Ruda’s presence and unique talents “… were vital to the success of the programme”.
“She leaves behind a vibrant legacy of exceptional journalism… she honed the skills of many of the journalists and presenters who will continue to work on the show.”
Ruda says meeting former President, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and having Oscar winner Chalize Theron in studio.
Her passion for South Africa, and her in depth knowledge and understanding of issues that affect us, Ruda is sure to have numerous offers lining up already.
As she enjoys her last few weeks on the show, gsport finds learns more about this inspirational South African and proud mother. Introducing gsport’s Woman of the Month, the uniquely talented Ruda Landman!
You spent 19 years with Carte Blanche, why have you decided to leave the show?
Because nearly two decades is enough! I want to wake up in the morning and wonder what’s going to happen today. I think there’s an element of disrespect to your team, and the people you interview, when it becomes “just another story”.
How are you feeling about your last Carte Blanche appearance?
Sad, but also excited.
What has been your most memorable experience on the show?
There have been too many to single out just one. The gorillas in Rwanda always have to be on this list; but also meeting former President Mandela and Archbishop Tutu.
Having Charlize Theron in studio; and then incidents like an interview with a transvestite sex worker in Beaufort-West … it’s a weird and wonderful world!
What will you miss most about the show?
I’ll miss my colleagues, working with people for whom the quality of the final product always is the most important consideration.
I’ll miss the way doors open and people invite you in, when you say you are from Carte Blanche.
I’ll miss the intense, in-depth exposure to everything that happens in our complicated country.
What advice do you have to women who would like want to host an actuality TV program?
Don’t make it about you. There are very few Oprahs in this world. Concentrate on the work.
As Margot Fonteyn said, “Always take your work seriously, never take yourself seriously. The first is imperative, the second disastrous.”
Who have supported you in your career?
My husband. My colleagues. Kate Turkington, who trained Derek and me in the early years.
Elizabeth Hamilton, sadly no longer with us, who straightened out my Northern Cape English accent.
What are your other career interests?
I have been a print journalist, and I still enjoy writing. Apart from that, who knows what may develop!
Are you sporty?
Not really. I enjoy gym two or three times a week, and I love walking.
Who is your favourite sports star?
Don’t really have one.
What is your favourite sport?
I watch Wimbledon; and cricket and rugby when SA is playing.
How will you be spending Mother’s Day this year?
We don’t pay much attention to Mother’s and Father’s Days … if my son is home, he’ll bring me breakfast in bed with a flower on the tray.
If it’s just my husband and myself, we may forget it completely!
Having a friend who is also your child.
What is your biggest joy in life?
My family – corny but true!
gsport strives to celebrate femininity – what does femininity mean to you?
Enjoying being a woman, while doing whatever you want to, in or out of the box marked “feminine”.
Who are your role models?
No one specifically.
What do you love most about South Africa?
Jis, we’re a tough lot, man. Throw us with a problem, and we just, like, sort it, you know. Eish.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
A different place every time.
What inspires you?
People with lots of positive energy.
How do you relax?
Read, watch movies, kuier with good friends.
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