Zarinah Hassan, widely known as Zari, has defended her husband, Shakib Lutaaya, after netizens mocked his English-speaking abilities ahead of the third season of Netflix’s African reality show Young, Famous & African, in which he will feature.

In a video shared online, Zari acknowledged that Shakib’s English may not be flawless but highlighted his other commendable achievements.

She stated, “Oh, we can’t wait to see Shakib’s English. Let’s talk about the English… let’s talk about it! Let me tell you something—it’s been a winning season for my husband. My husband bagged me—winning season for him. My husband is going to be on Netflix. You, with all your English, literature, and accent—look at you! Meanwhile, my husband is on the world’s biggest platform—Netflix. And here you are, discussing his English. See your life!

“It’s a winning season for my husband. You don’t even know… he’s excelling in everything. From Netflix, who knows? Bigger deals could follow—maybe even Hollywood. You and your English! Never mind Shakib—he’s winning. Ladies and gentlemen, Shakib is winning, and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve never loved someone so much.”

Zari also addressed critics who once ridiculed their relationship but are now showing admiration for Shakib. She added, “I see many of you falling for my husband now—suddenly he’s the guy. But weren’t you the same people mocking us at the start, saying that’s all I could get?”

The upcoming season of Young, Famous & African premieres on January 17, introducing new cast members like award-winning fashion influencer Kefilwe Mabote and Nollywood actress Ini Edo. Returning stars include Zari, Khanyi Mbau, Nadia Nakai, Annie Macaulay-Idibia, Luis Manana, Swanky Jerry, Naked DJ, Kayleigh Schwark, and Diamond.