Idols South Africa season 18

The eighteenth season of South African Idols premiered on 17 July 2022 on the Mzansi Magic television network under the theme "Singing a Different Tune". Over 9,000 contestants auditioned for the season. The season was won by Thapelo Molomo and the runner-up was Nozi Sibiya.

Shortly after online auditions for the season were opened, it was announced that Randall Abrahams and Unathi Nkayi would not return to the show as judges. In February 2022, M-Net announced that Thembi Seete and JR replaced them, joining Somizi Mhlongo on the judges panel.

Finalists
This season, instead of the usual Top 16, a Top 12 was announced on 21 August 2022.

Top 2 (6 November)

 * Before her elimination, Mpilwenhle Mokopu performed her single "Ngiyazifela".

Elimination Chart

 * Colour key