JEANNIE'S BIG, BOLD LIFE

The former TV personality on how falling in love inspired her to quit her glamorous job and head off on a new adventure

- ALULUTHO GUZANA

HER husky voice, bubbly personality and milewide smile captivated TV audiences on Top Billing, Top Travel and Afternoon Express – and then at the pinnacle of her career she vanished from our screens.

Why would someone so successful leave the glamorous life behind?

For Jeannie D (42) the answer is straightforward – after years in the spotlight she found herself yearning for a quieter existence.

“So much of my life has been in the media so nowadays I prefer privacy and enjoy moments with my loved one,” she tells YOU.

That loved one is her husband, businessman Brandon Bekker, and she lights up when she talks about him.

Jeannie, whose full name is Jeannie De Gouveia, is eagerly looking forward to her first Christmas as Mrs Bekker.

After returning from a recent trip to Edinburgh in Scotland, Jeannie and Brandon have been preparing for the festive season by painting and doing some maintenance at their home on the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town.

“We love entertaining so this time of year is our favourite,” Jeannie says. “I might not be a master chef but I can make a mean cocktail.”

The former TV and radio host is looking forward to taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to host family and friends during the holidays.

“The [Chrstmas] tree is all set up, I’ve been wrapping gifts I’ve gathered from my travels over the past three months,” she says.

Jeannie and Brandon will be hosting a pre-Christmas celebration before heading to Antarctica for a bucket-list expedition and then going to Portugal to visit one of her brothers.

“We didn’t want him to spend the day alone so we’re going to visit him,” she says. “I feel there isn’t enough love in the world so during this season I try to spread extra cheer – and hope others will join in.”