08/28/2026
ZNBC’S ICONIC ‘SMOOTH TALK’ TO BOW OUT AFTER 24 YEARS
After 24 consecutive years on Zambia’s television screens, ZNBC’s iconic talk show ‘Smooth Talk’ is set to come to an end tomorrow night.
The programme, created and hosted by veteran broadcaster Innocent Kalaluka, popularly known as Smooth IK, will air its final edition at 22:00 hours, marking the end of one of the longest-running talk shows in Zambia.
Kalaluka, who recently announced his retirement from the national broadcaster, says saying goodbye to a programme that has become synonymous with his career is far from easy.
“I loved that show. Everything has an end. Smooth Talk was always going to reach a close. I am grateful to ZNBC management, to the viewers and, above all, to the wonderful guests and audiences who made me who I am,” he said.
During its 24-year run, Smooth Talk recorded an impressive 1,248 weekly episodes, providing a platform for a diverse range of personalities, including musicians, actors, comedians, dancers, authors, educators and other creative voices.
The programme has also played a significant role in shaping Zambia’s television and entertainment landscape, with its intimate interview format allowing guests to share their stories, careers and personal experiences with viewers.
Kalaluka’s retirement comes despite his continued presence and youthful appearance on screen, bringing to a close an extraordinary chapter in his broadcasting career.
Tomorrow’s final edition is expected to serve as a farewell celebration, with former guests and people whose lives have been touched by the programme expected to come together to honour its creator and host.
The familiar studio that has hosted thousands of conversations over the years is expected to take on a different atmosphere as friends, colleagues and viewers gather to witness Smooth IK take his final bow on ‘Smooth Talk’.
Credit : Sam Phiri