Somizi Mhlongo was born in Soweto, Gauteng on December 23, 1972, and his exposure to the entertainment world began at a young age. His breakthrough came in 1992 when he appeared in the musical and political film "Sarafina!" which propelled him into the spotlight. Somizi subsequently became a lead choreographer for various shows and events, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Somizi Mhlongo's parents are the late South African veteran actress Mary Twala and the late actor and comedian Ndaba Mhlongo. He had a sibling named Archie, who tragically lost his life due to a stabbing incident in 1985.