Fran-Rico Lucas

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Many of our readers will remember Bloemfontein-born Fran-Rico Lucas and the captivating story chronicling his journey from young man to renowned Presenter. This week, he graciously agreed to answer some of My City's questions about his newest role on "Eintlik Let's Connect", set to air on the 9th of February.

1. Eintlik Let’s Connect marks your return to daily television. How does stepping into this new role feel at this stage of your career?

It truly feels like a homecoming. From the screen test onwards, there was a calm certainty almost as if everything I’ve walked through up to now prepared me for this moment. Television was one of my earliest dreams, and radio has since shaped my understanding of authenticity, pace, and connection. At this stage of my career, it feels crafted, intentional, and deeply aligned with who I am. I’m stepping into this role with confidence, gratitude, and a clear sense of purpose.

2. You’ve described this move as a “full circle moment.” What does returning to television on this scale mean to you personally?

Personally, it reinforces the power of staying faithful to a dream. Life doesn’t always take a straight line, but I’ve learned that timing matters. This moment is not about proving anything. It’s about being fully myself. It’s about serving, holding space, and using the platform to reflect the beauty, diversity and stories of South Africa. I see myself as a vessel present, open and deeply grateful.

3. Viewers still strongly associate you with 50/50. In what ways does this new show allow you to grow beyond that chapter while still honouring it?

50/50 shaped my love for people, storytelling and being out in the field. Eintlik Let’s Connect allows me to expand on that foundation by balancing studio work with real, on-the-ground engagement. Working in studio alongside Penny while still connecting with communities across the country gives me the best of both worlds. It honours where I come from while allowing me to grow into something broader and more layered.

4. You’re co-hosting alongside Penny Lebyane. How would you describe your on-screen dynamic, and what do you feel each of you brings to the show?

Our dynamic feels natural and grounded. Penny brings wisdom, depth, multilingual richness and a strong sense of calm authority. I bring relatability, curiosity and a deep love for people. Together, we reflect South Africa its warmth, complexity and humour. There’s an ease between us that makes conversations feel safe, honest and engaging.

5. The programme blends trending topics, meaningful conversations and feel-good storytelling. What excites you most about this format?

What excites me most is that it allows us to be real. Meaningful conversations don’t always have to be heavy. They can be hopeful, challenging and healing at the same time. The show creates space for honesty, laughter and reflection. It’s about connection, not performance. When people see us being ourselves, they feel permission to do the same.

6. The show promises to be deeply rooted in South African nuances. How important was authenticity when you decided to come on board?

Authenticity was non-negotiable. This show is about real people, real homes and real conversations. It matters that viewers see themselves reflected regardless of background or circumstance. I believe true connection happens when people feel seen and heard, and that’s what drew me to Eintlik Let’s Connect.

7. Food and shared meals play a noticeable role in the concept. Why do you think cooking and eating together are such powerful tools for connection in the South African context?

Food tells our stories. It reflects culture, memory and identity. Whether it’s fish at the coast, a kota in the township or a family recipe passed down generations, meals bring people together. Cooking and eating together slow us down and open space for conversation. Through food, we understand one another better.

8. You’ll be filming in people’s homes, family kitchens and local restaurants. What are you most looking forward to discovering through these intimate settings?

I’m looking forward to the stories behind the food and hopefully learning to cook more than just an omelette. Growing up in a pastor’s home and moving across the country gave me a deep appreciation for people and cultures. Sitting in someone’s kitchen, hearing their story and understanding where they come from is where real connection lives.

9. Eintlik Let’s Connect will travel across South Africa. How do you think engaging directly with communities will shape the stories told on the show?

Being on the ground adds colour, texture and truth. Studio conversations are important, but lived experiences bring depth. Engaging directly with communities allows us to move beyond theory into reality, to see, feel and understand the stories we share. That’s what makes the show honest and distinctive.

10. With a line-up that includes well-known personalities and everyday South Africans alike, how do you strike a balance between celebrity moments and real-life stories?

By remembering that every story matters. Celebrities are people first, and everyday South Africans often carry extraordinary stories. The balance comes from curiosity, respect and listening. We approach every guest with the same openness, allowing authenticity to lead the conversation.

11. Daily live television is demanding. How are you preparing for the pace, and what keeps you grounded amid such a busy schedule?

Staying present. My faith, my family and a strong sense of purpose keep me grounded. I’ve dreamt of this my whole life, and preparation comes from embracing the moment rather than resisting the pace. When you’re fully present, you become part of the rhythm instead of chasing it.

12. Finally, when viewers tune in after a long day, what do you hope they feel when Eintlik Let’s Connect comes to an end each afternoon?

I hope they feel lighter. Connected. Seen. I hope they feel joy, warmth and renewed energy, like they’ve just shared a moment with family. If the show opens a conversation at home, sparks laughter or helps someone find the words they didn’t have before, then we’ve done our job.

Dit was ongelooflik om met jou te kon gesels 😀