Op My Eish!: A shock farewell, an open heart and a new love for Maritha
In episode seven of Op My Eish!, emotions were laid bare and a decision was made that significantly altered the course of Ruan’s journey. The day, however, started on a quiet, more introspective note.
As usual, Ruan and JP first discussed the previous evening’s events before the focus shifted to inner reflection. Each of the women had individual sessions with life coach Liezl Thom – conversations that were light and affirming for some, but raw and emotional for others. Tears flowed freely as participants such as Jenine, Chantelle and Charlene opened up about uncertainty, tension and how the process was beginning to take an emotional toll.
After the sessions, a group of women – Saartjie, Maritha, Cindy-Lee, Chantelle and Jenine – joined Ruan for a river tubing group date. What began with visible nerves quickly turned into laughter, adventure and camaraderie as everyone put on their life jackets and took on the river. The activity shifted between calm stretches and adrenaline-filled twists and a four-metre-high jump that tested everyone’s courage. With encouragement, support and a bit of bravery, everyone completed it successfully.
Later, while enjoying refreshments by the river, Ruan had the opportunity for individual conversations. His one-on-one time with Saartjie focused on comfort, happiness and honest questions about the future – including children and sacrifice. After the conversation, Saartjie said she feels a connection, but experiences it as more friendly than romantic at this stage.
Back with the group, Ruan openly admitted that it had been one of the most comfortable group dates so far – a sentiment the women shared. But it was in this tranquil atmosphere that the episode’s biggest shock was about to unfold.
Ruan asked Maritha aside for some alone time. Their conversation started with a relaxed discussion about the group dynamic but suddenly turned serious when Ruan told her that he’s sending her home. He explained that he was experiencing stronger connections with other women and that he had promised himself not to continue with something if it didn’t feel right – even though it was difficult for him.
For Maritha, the moment was unexpected and deeply emotional.
“When Ruan sent me home, I was quite shocked and obviously disappointed, but I also experienced immediate peace because the whole show was a matter I prayed on. In that moment, so many questions run through your mind, especially when you look at your connection with Ruan from your own perspective – and then the opposite happens.”
She said just before her departure, she had been praying intensely about her participation in the programme.
“Interestingly enough, about two days before I was sent home, I prayed a lot about the show and whether it was the right place for me to be, and I believe that the Lord plans your path and knows exactly what He is doing.”
Looking back, Maritha admits that she misjudged the situation.
“I thought, Ruan and I had a strong connection. We were very comfortable with each other, could really talk about anything and laugh a lot. I do think that our emotional connection wasn’t as strong as the physical one, which was important to Ruan from the start.”
She also acknowledges that limited time and the group dynamic was a challenge.
“The time was too short to really get to know someone properly. I did hold back a part of myself during the series – I struggle to put my whole heart on the table immediately.”
Today, she watches the series with more perspective.
“During the show, you live in this little bubble, and so many things feel unreal and unrealistic. Although I was disappointed in that moment, I now look back and experience a lot of peace.”
Despite the heartbreak, she describes her Op my eish! experience as a valuable life lesson.
“What stands out most for me from my journey on Op my eish! is realising that being vulnerable is actually beautiful.”
In a final, unexpected twist, Maritha disclosed that she has found love again.
“I have since met someone I am absolutely crazy about. It warms my heart to know that the Lord knew exactly what He was doing. My story is definitely not over – it’s only just beginning. I’m being treated like royalty, my heart feels safe, I laugh more than ever, and maybe I blush even more than before too. I wish Ruan the exact same happiness, love and butterflies. Everyone deserves to feel like this.”
Op My Eish! airs on Thursdays at 20:00 exclusively on kykNET (DStv Channel 144), and will also be available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
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