Top Billing launches magazine

After years of setting television screens alight, South Africa's longest-running lifestyle programme will now give viewers the same brand of top entertainment every month in print format. Daniel Ford, previous launch editor of South African GQ, spearheads Top Billing magazine as editor and publishing consultant. With him is a multi-talented editorial team: art director Ian Martin (former art director at Hunt Lascaris); assistant editor Kerry Rogers (from glossy Marie Claire); décor editor Natalie Thiart, (former assistant editor of House & Garden); fashion editor Cally Palmer, (freelance stylist GQ, Maxim and FHM, fashion buyer LA Clothing and designer for her own label Miyu)

Contributing editors include trends editor Stefania Johnson (advertising creative director and House & Leisure editor) and features editor Bianca Resnekov (Condé Nast House & Garden) In addition, the presenters themselves – Bassie, Michael and Ursula – will be playing an active role in contributing to, and consulting on, the magazine's content.

The advertising team will be headed up by advertising and marketing manager Haley Upson (previously associate publisher at House and Leisure), with advertising executives Annelize Brits (Condé Nast House & Garden) and Jeanine Viljoen (Carpe Diem Media's Finesse, Soul, Maksiman). Advertorial manager is Simon Tully (Good Taste).

Readers can look forward to over 160 pages of in-depth interviews, lifestyles of local and international jet setters, haute couture, interior designs, and exotic travel destinations. The magazine will always be filled with useful information, such as stockist lists, social calendars and behind-the-scenes snippets.

Editor Daniel Ford said, "The magazine will take inspiration from the show, celebrating our country's unique place in the world, enjoying everything the world has to offer – at all times through the eyes of South Africans."

Basetsana Kumalo, partner in Tswelopele Production who produces the TV show said, "Hundreds of thousands of South Africans enjoy the TV show every week and research show they are hungry for more. We are offering advertisers some exciting opportunities for example; advertising in the magazine gives the advertiser an option for a TV slot at a hugely discounted rate. Another major selling point will be the inclusion of a CD with each magazine – excellent for advertorial opportunities."

Top Billing is a strong established South African brand, and the magazine will receive unparalleled television support – sustained exposure at a level no other South African publication enjoys.

Target Audience: LSM 8-10
Gender: 50% male/female (TV statistics)
Age: 25-49
Print order: 75,000
First issue: July 2004 (on shelf early June)
Distribution: Nationally through NND
Cover Price: R19.95