He has been in South Africa attending the Joburg Film Festival. But it seems, US actor, Malik Yoba was billed as one of the international guests to speak at the festival. It seems Malik got more than a chance to network but has found love in Mzansi. Close industry friends reveal how smitten he has been for years over Carte Blanch host Claire Mawisa whom according to a source, has been friends with for some time.

FRIENDSHIP?

In a recent video on social media posted by Malik, he and Claire are seen cozy at several Joburg Film Festival gatherings, captioned, "In honor of #InternationalWomens Day and #WomensHistoryMonth I'd like to salute one of my favourite humans on the planet Cape Town's very own Claire Mawisa, a trailblazer, intellectual, social impact warrior, Xhosa Woman, mother, daughter, aunt, public figure and friend of the past 11 years. We have a very special connection and those that really know, know," he said. 

A BOND

Malik who has three kids from a previous relationship, was married to actress Cat Wilson for three years before getting divorced.According to close friends, Claire and Malik met many moons ago. "He has always loved her. But I think they were waiting for the right time. They have kept in touch. She was around during his marriage, as a friend," the source says. "But maybe this is the right time but she does not want a long-distance relationship." Last year, Claire sent her son to initiation school.

MEETI NG 

This is not the first time there have been speculations about the two dating after people witnessed them exchange tweets (now X). However, Claire revealed he is just a friend. "We actually never spoke when he saw me," referring to their first encounter at Kaya 959. "He came to the Kaya FM building as one of the producers had booked him for an interview. We never spoke and nobody introduced us. He [Malik] was explaining to somebody that he saw somebody in South Africa with dreadlocks, really beautiful. The girl was like, 'Is it Claire? And he was like 'I don't know. Then she googled my face, [and asks] 'Is this her?' And he's like 'Oh my goodness, that's her. And then she's like, She's on Twitter, tweet her', "Claire explained. "We became friends. I know a lot of his friends, he knows some of my friends, like the world is small." Claire said. The friend reveals that this is the first time they are meeting. "They have been friends but only meeting now in real life for the first time. But Malik is in love."