Month: August 2024

Despite being a staple on SABC 1 for years, the popular soap opera Uzalo is currently facing the threat of cancellation. Despite its loyal following, the show has been receiving increasing criticism from fans, and the SABC has taken note of the declining viewership.

### Ultimatum from the SABC

Insiders report that the SABC has issued a stern directive to Uzalo and other shows: improve or face cancellation. The message is clear—if the shows do not start generating better ratings and revenue, they will be cut from the lineup.

 

### Competition from Primedia

However, it’s not all doom and gloom. The SABC has seen a positive impact from the introduction of Primedia, a corporation that offers sponsored and pre-recorded content. Shows like The Masked Singer and Deal or No Deal have been performing exceptionally well in terms of earnings and ratings.

### Declining Viewership

In stark contrast, Uzalo has experienced a significant drop in viewership. Once a ratings giant with over 10 million viewers, the show now attracts just about 5 million. This drastic decline raises concerns about the show’s future.

### Reasons for the Decline

According to studies by IPSOS and Milton Data, the decline in viewership is not limited to Uzalo. Nationwide television viewership figures are dropping. The evolution of entertainment consumption, driven by the rise of social media, streaming services, and podcasts, has significantly impacted traditional TV ratings.

### Can Uzalo Bounce Back?

The big question remains: can Uzalo bounce back and avoid cancellation? Time will tell. Ndileka Cola, the SABC spokeswoman, has acknowledged receiving inquiries about the situation but has yet to provide a response. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

After the finale episode of Crown Chasers, which aired on S3 on Saturday 3 August, the Miss SA hopefuls are down to the Top 9, but there is a catch.

MISS SA 2024: TOP 11 DOWN TO TOP 9
The Miss SA finalists are now down from 11 to 9 hopefuls after the latest episode of Miss SA reality show, Crown Chasers, which aired on S3 on Saturday 3 August. However, one of the following two ladies still have the chance to compete in the finale:

 

 

 
Kebalepile Ramafoko
Kirsten Khan
As per the Miss SA Organisation, the fate of the last finalist is now in the hands of the South African public as they get the chance to vote for who will take the final spot. Fans and supporters can cast their vote on the Miss SA app and the Miss SA website before 8 August at 18:00. The contestant who will be joining the other nine women at the pageant finale will be announced on S3 on August 10 at 18h00.

Former Miss SA Suzette van der Mthethe latest, and final celebrity judge to appear on Crown Chasers. Natasha Joubert will crown her successor Miss SA 2024 at the finale held at SunBet Arena at Time Square, Pretoria on Saturday, 10 August.

So, who are the Top 9 contestants?

MEET THE TOP 11
Chidimma Adetshina hails from Soweto, Gauteng. The 23-year-old is a model, netball player and a Bachelor of Law student at Varsity College. She is passionate about sports and advocating for change on violence against woman and children and gender-based violence.Layla Zoubair is from Kempton Park in Gauteng. The 29-year-old is an outgoing and outspoken individual who thrives on challenges and exploring.

In an interesting revelation that adds a new layer of intrigue to the popular South African drama Isitha-The Enemy, it has been disclosed that Nonkululeko Pearl Mbatha and Khumbuza Meyiwa, who portray the characters Thenjiwe and Thembinkosi Twala respectively, are actually related in real life. Khumbuza Meyiwa is Nonkululeko’s uncle, a fact that has delighted fans of the show.

Nonkululeko Pearl Mbatha, known for her compelling portrayal of Thenjiwe, has quickly become a favorite among viewers with her powerful performances and captivating screen presence. Meanwhile, Khumbuza Meyiwa’s role as Thembinkosi Twala has also garnered significant attention, adding depth and drama to the series.

The revelation of their real-life familial connection has added a fascinating dimension to their on-screen interactions. Knowing that Khumbuza is Nonkululeko’s uncle provides fans with a unique perspective on their chemistry and dynamic, both on and off the screen.
Fans of Isitha-The Enemy are thrilled by this behind-the-scenes connection, as it brings a new level of authenticity to the show’s storytelling. The genuine bond between Nonkululeko and Khumbuza undoubtedly enriches their performances, adding a layer of realism and depth to their characters’ interactions.

 

 

 

 

The news has sparked a wave of excitement and curiosity among viewers, who are eager to see how this real-life relationship influences their portrayal of Thenjiwe and Thembinkosi Twala. It also highlights the close-knit nature of the South African entertainment industry, where familial ties often intersect with professional collaborations.

As Isitha-The Enemy continues to captivate audiences with its riveting plotlines and strong character development, the real-life connection between Nonkululeko Pearl Mbatha and Khumbuza Meyiwa adds an extra element of intrigue and charm to the beloved show. Fans will undoubtedly be watching with even greater interest, knowing the familial bond that underpins their compelling performances.

South African-born beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina is making headlines after her ex-husband, King Sefo, was reportedly revealed amid her Miss SA woes. Rumour mill did not only reveal Chidimma’s ex-husband but also made it known that the two might still be together.

No doubt, the Miss SA finalist has been making headlines after she revealed that her father was Nigerian and her mother was South African (Zulu) but of Mozambican descent.

 

NIGERIAN THEMED WEDDING
However, South Africans have questioned her heritage and eligibility to compete in the beauty contest since then. This has quickly become a national debate, with several politicians, influencers, and celebrities flooding social media with their two cents.

Against the trends, Miss SA organisers made it known that Chidimma Adetshina could contest since she met all the requirements. However, against the backlash, the Miss SA organisation gave a second response through their public relations manager, Janine Walker.

She said, “The Miss South Africa Organisation and Chidimma are not making any further comments beyond what has been issued.”

Against the statement, Mzansi has since made a clarion call to the Home Affairs Minister to clarify the issue. However, several bloggers have been trying to piece together Chidimma Adetshina’s life.

On Sunday, 4 August, MDNnewss shared videos and photos of Adetshina’s wedding. Against the now-viral video, @Miz_Ruraltarain shared more details about Chidimma Adetshina’s husband and marriage.

A Miss SA winner becomes the ambassador for South Africa; our culture, languages, way of life, our flag.#Chidimma did not even have a SA flag on her profile, yet she wants to be our ambassador.

Gayton Helen Zille Anele Julius Malema The GNU Mbeki Nigerians
Zuma Musa Khawula pic.twitter.com/sCuT6GjFzw

— Brandon (@Umalumewabantu) August 4, 2024
However, The South African has also connected the dots about King Sefo. According to the rumour mill, Chidimma Adetshina was a club hostess and used to host several events at Saints Club, where she allegedly met King Sefo.

King Sefo and Chidimma Adetshina had their engagement party around Heritage Day celebrations, and the two reportedly married in December 2022. Their wedding reception was held at Brooklyn Hall.

GET TO KNOW CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA’S EX-HUSBAND, KING SEFO
However, according to Briefly News, the two called it quits barely a year after their wedding. But Mzansi is more than convinced that the two are still together after King Sefo shared photos showing support for Chidimma Adetshina.

King Sefo is reportedly an Igbo, an ethnic group in Nigeria. They are mostly from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo. Rumour mill has it that King Sefo is in his late 40s and is known by many for his nightlife.

Unconfirmed reports claim King Sefo is also a member of a popular Nigerian cult called Black Axes. Several Nigerian celebrities have also been linked to the cult, which has often made headlines for the wrong reasons. In 2022, Interpol arrested at least 75 people connected to the cult group.

Despite the social media outrage over her African – particularly Nigerian – lineage, Chidimma Adetshina has been tipped to win the Miss SA crown next weekend.

The 23-year-old LLB student has been subjected to social media attacks after she revealed that her father is Nigerian

 
The 2024 Miss SA crowning takes place on Saturday, 10 August, at the SunBet Area in Pretoria.

CHIDIMMA NAMED A TOP CONTENDER FOR MISS SA WIN
According to the popular pageant page Missology, Chidimma Adetshina has bagged the number one spot as a hot contender for the Miss SA title.

The second and third spot goes to finalists Taahira Katz and Mia Le Roux respectively.

While others respectively disagreed with the predictions, others were happy about the selection.

@theejolin: “Team Chi Chi all the way.”

@cmbn_2023_: “Chi Chi is going to be so great at Miss Universe, too.”

@_joseph_ledwaba: “Girl, go get your crown.”

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Miss Universe • Miss France • Miss USA (@missology.updates)

BREAKDOWN OVER ONLINE HATE
During a scene in the fifth episode of the Miss SA reality TV show Crown Chasers, Chidimma Adetshina broke drown in front of fellow finalists and current Miss SA winner Natasha Joubert.

Chidimma was addressing the social media vitriol against her, including xenophobic comments about her Nigerian ancestry.

“I can only imagine what she must be going through with all the disgusting, xenophobic attacks. It must be horrendous for her”, said pageant enthusiast Rina Hendricks.

She added: “I absolutely adore Chidimma.”

‘I’M READY TO BE THE NEXT MISS SA’
In her motivation for entering Miss SA, Chidimma said in her entry video: “I deserve to be Miss South Africa 2024 because I have a strong passion for making a positive impact. I believe that with my authenticity and leadership, along with my other great attributes”.

In a significant shift within the beloved South African television show House of Zwide, Londeka Mchunu, who has brought the character Zanele to life, is bidding farewell to her on-screen role. However, fans of the talented actress need not worry, as she will continue to contribute to the show from behind the scenes as a scriptwriter.

Londeka Mchunu’s portrayal of Zanele has been a standout on House of Zwide, captivating audiences with her nuanced performances and dynamic presence. Her departure from the role marks the end of an era for the character but also heralds a new beginning for Londeka in a different creative capacity.

 

 

 

 

 

Transitioning from acting to scriptwriting, Londeka is set to bring her unique insights and deep understanding of the characters and storylines to the writers’ room. Her experience as an actress will undoubtedly enrich the scripts, offering a fresh and authentic perspective that only someone with her background can provide.

Fans of House of Zwide have expressed mixed emotions about the change. While they will miss seeing Londeka on screen as Zanele, there is a palpable excitement about the new dimensions she will bring to the show through her writing.Londeka’s move to scriptwriting is a testament to her versatility and passion for storytelling. It also reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where actors often explore other facets of production to expand their creative horizons.

As Londeka Mchunu steps into her new role behind the scenes, House of Zwide viewers can look forward to the continued evolution of the show, now infused with her creative vision and storytelling prowess. Her transition is a promising development that highlights her multifaceted talent and dedication to the craft.

Coming up this August 2024:

Monday 5 August 2024
Episode 1 (4634)

Season 26 premiere!

 
Nkele and Tshililo say a painful goodbye to Reneilwe at her cremation. Meanwhile, Dr Ximba (Leleti Khumalo) makes a commanding entrance at MMC, bumping into Imani. Ndiwavho is upset about moving to Venda and Teboho is forced to kill a prison gang leader.

Tuesday 6 August
Episode 2 (4635)

Teboho frames her cellmate in an attempt to save herself. Imani struggles with anxiety as she prepares to impress Dr Ximba. Bubbles brings the church women to offer condolences to Nkele, but the moment is interrupted by a bank letter of demand. Tshililo tries to warn his goon, KK’s goon is closing in on him.

Wednesday 7 August 2024
Episode 3 (4636)

Tshililo’s goon reveals he’s eliminated KK’s person. Ndemedzo (Wiseman Zitha) pretends to be a devoted fan of Dr Ximba’s work, hiding ulterior motives. Kgosi tells his family that Nkele has declared war. James is speechless when Teboho, who is supposed to be in prison, shows up on his doorstep.

Thursday 8 August 2024
Episode 4 (4637)

Nkele causes an uproar, accusing Tshililo of stealing the urn with Reneilwe’s ashes. Azwindini and Lindelani prepare for the re-launch of Hayani Holdings. At the event, Dr Ximba’s marital troubles with her husband Avhatakali Ramabulana (Lloyd Nedohe) are at odds with her public image.

Friday 9 August 2024
Episode 5 (4638)

Kgosi takes the urn to a private dinner, seeking solace. Teboho reveals herself to Mulalo, declaring war on the Vhakwevho. Nkele moves to a dingy room, choosing solitude. Dr Ximba is shaken by a menacing message about “The Mayor” as Hayani Holdings is unveiled.

Monday 12 August 2024
Episode 6 (4639)

Nkele struggles with her new surroundings. Azwindini and Avhatakali bond over golf, discussing their partnership and MMC’s future projects. Susan encounters a hostile Lebo at Waterside after a while of not seeing her, and then Dr Ximba offers R20k for Lebo’s phone.

Tuesday 13 August 2024
Episode 7 (4640)

Tension and intrigue unfold as Lebo finds herself bribed with R100k by Dr Ximba. She warns Shaz to report Dr Ximba to the police if anything happens to her. Nkele tells Tshililo that her fall from grace is a strategic move. Susan urgently calls Avhatakali to warn him that his wife knows about their affair.

Wednesday 14 August 2024
Episode 8 (4641)

Avhatakali tries to pacify his wife with a diamond necklace. Kgosi gives a heartfelt tribute at Reneilwe’s memorial. Nkele asks Tshililo to read her farewell message to Reneilwe. Later Teboho reveals to Nkele that she knows who was responsible for Reneilwe’s death – says she has evidence.

Thursday 15 August 2024
Episode 9 (4642)

Dr Ximba moves into Nkele’s house and catches up with her son Sakhile. Susan panics as Avhatakali avoids her calls. Bubbles checks on Kgosi and they kiss. Teboho offers Nkele a deal for evidence. Dr Ximba manipulates Avhatakali to stay in Joburg.

Friday 16 August 2024
Episode 10(4643)

Tatjana Smith has proudly revealed that winning a gold medal at the Olympics has no comparison to her strong faith in God. The Christian swimmer recently won first and second place in the 100m and 200 breaststroke, respectively.

The 27-year-old has now retired and is planning to pursue the next chapter of her life.

TATJANA TREASURES HER FAITH MORE THAN HER MEDALS
On her Instagram Stories, Tatjana Smith shared a quote she had said after winning gold and silver in the Olympics.

She said, “No medal will ever compare to the feeling you have when you 100% trust in God for the outcome, win or lose. This time, I am humbled to have won.”

The post shared on the Instagram account @_christhlete, was liked by Springboks captain Siya Kolisi, whose wife Rachel is the sister of Tatjana’s husband, Joel Smith.

 

 

 

Siya commented: “Amen and amen.”Last week, the 27-year-old wore a T-shirt with the names of all those who had helped her succeed in her swimming career. At the top of the list was “God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit”.

Tatjana also revealed that she favoured wearing her cross earrings while competing in races.

She said: “It just represents something about me and why I do it. It’s to glorify God and doesn’t necessarily mean winning gold medals.”

Olympic swimmer Tatjana Smith has paid tribute to those who inspired her swimming career. Image via Instagram: @tatjanaschoen
WAYDE VAN NIEKERK’S DEDICATION TO GOD
Like Tatjana Smith, Olympic sprinter Wayde van Niekerk has also spoken fervently about his faith.

At the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Wayde said of his record-breaking gold win in the 400m: “Jesus did it”.

A picture of the star’s running shoes with the handwritten words: “Jesus, I’m all yours. Use me” went viral around the world.

Speaking to the media after his victory, the emotional athlete said: “Everything that comes my way, I thank the Lord. I leave every race and every step I take in his hands. I trust him in every movement I do.”

Earlier this year, the celebrity sangoma Gogo Maweni confirmed that her husband had paid lobola for her. The bubbly sangoma has undoubtedly managed to keep her private life under wraps, leaving many to guess.

INSIDE GOGO MAWENI’S BRIDAL SHOWER
The two became legally married to Sabelo Mgube in February. However, they jetted off to the Midlevels to celebrate their union. Of interest, Sabelo paid off a whooping R150 000 for lobola, and Gogo Maweni confirmed the news.

The sangoma said, “It was R150k, but there are still cows remaining, which will be paid out before the wedding.” Confirmed reports have it that a wedding is also on the cards and is set for this year.

With the bubbly sangoma yet to confirm the dates and news, Gogo Maweni is making headlines after she shared photos and videos of her surprise bridal shower, which was planned by family and friends.

The photos have undoubtedly gained thousands of comments and reactions since they dropped on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Gogo Maweni – Mrs Mgube (@dr_maweni)

Gogo Maweni captioned, “I finished work at 10:30 p.m. last night, back-to-back, face-to-face consultations, and got home to this amazing special surprise. I love y’all…, and I am grateful. LOL, last slide…I’m getting ready; I’m going to KZN!”

Against the post, fans and fellow celebrities were quick to flood her comments section with congratulatory messages. Gogo Maweni’s bridal shower comes barely a few weeks after she tied the knot. Last month, the sangoma took to Instagram to share photos of her traditional wedding.

Before the wedding, Gogo Maweni said the first leg of the wedding at her parents’ house in Ormonde would be small and intimate, adding that her mother would not be one of the guests on the day.

 

The celebrity sangoma announced that she would marry the Shembe way (a religion combining Zulu culture and Christianity), ending with a white wedding. However, confirmed reports have it that a big wedding is on the cards for the two, who are set to have their second-leg wedding.

MAKING HEADLINES
However, in 2023, the rumour mill announced that the two were heading for a splitville. Against the rumours, Gogo Maweni once rubbished the news with a saucy clapback.

On their anniversary, Gogo Maweni said, “Everybody said it would end in tears … The tears have been there, but the end is never coming. I don’t care what social media says.”

Over the years, the two have wowed Mzansi with their love story. Gogo Maweni often takes it to social media to gush over her husband, who has managed to keep his private life under wraps since his thrust into the limelight.

However, in 2023, Sabelo Mgube set the record straight about her relationship with the celebrity sangoma. He made it known that he was not in the relationship for fame or money, as alleged by the media.

Mosebjadi Oratile Basetsana Thlologelo is one amongst many media personalities to emerge from South Africa. She is a South African born and based actress who is popularly known for her on screen character on the most watched soapie, Skeem Saam, as Eunice. Born on the 1st of March in 1999, the 24-year-old hails from Polokwane in the Limpopo province in a township called Seshego, Zone 1.

Beautiful pictures of Eunice from Skeem Saam in real life

 

 

 

 

 

On screen, she is known as a girl in her early twenties who has just completed her medical studies and played with the opportunity she had of working at the Turfloop Hospital. After applying for a job and passing an interview at the Turfloop Hospital, Mr Kgomu who is the superintendent of the hospital hired her.

As soon as Eunice received 2 million rands through Forex trading, she started going out for partying with her friends and buying expensive alcohol for them. She did not go to work most of the time or she would go drunk. She then lost the job and ultimately lost all the money she had and was left poor with nothing to do for a living. Eunice has now learnt her lesson and is now teaching others the importance of using money wisely. As pretty as she is on screen, this talented actress is also pretty in real life and she has a very nice firm and fit body which not shown at most of the time on screen. Oratile Thlologelo seems to be one of those women who are best friends with the gym. She believes so much in taking care of your physique and encourages people to eat healthy and visit the gym. Below are some of her pretty pictures with her nice body.