Month: September 2024

Miss Universe Zozi Tunzi has been criticised for choosing to wear a weave after years of promoting natural hair…Former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe Zozibini “Zozi” Tunzi has come under scrutiny for swapping her signature natural hair for a weave at the Miss Universe Vietnam finale. Zozi, widely celebrated for promoting natural African beauty, faced criticism from some fans who disapproved of her new hairstyle choice.

Zozi’s Appearance Sparks Debate

Zozi Tunzi was invited to Vietnam to serve as a guest judge for the Miss Universe Vietnam finale, which took place on Saturday, 14 September. As a renowned advocate for women, Zozi expressed her excitement about her role in the event, stating, “Everybody who knows me knows I am a champion of women, a huge fan of women who have a voice and like to introduce us to their countries and everything that they stand for. So I’m so excited to see this calibre of women.”

 

 

 

However, despite the positive attention surrounding her international role, fans were quick to comment on her new hairstyle. Known for her short, natural hair, Zozi surprised many by wearing a long, flowing weave, which dramatically altered the look that had won the hearts of many during her pageant reign.Others echoed these sentiments, referencing Zozi’s iconic natural look, which helped her stand out in the beauty pageant world. “Disappointed about the weave,” one fan remarked. “We came to know Zozi and subsequently won two big titles with her SHORT NATURAL HAIR. That made her stand out from the rest of the girls that had weaves.”

Some felt that the weave detracted from Zozi’s authenticity as a symbol of African beauty. One fan shared, “Zozi, you’re so beautiful; there’s no authenticity in that hair. You made being African fashionable for a lot of African women by embracing your God-given features.”

Media personality Ntsiki Mazwai, known for her outspoken opinions on wigs and weaves, also weighed in on the conversation. She tweeted, “What have they done to our Miss Universe?”

### Zozi Tunzi and Her Natural Hair Movement

Zozi’s choice of hairstyle has drawn attention because of the natural hair movement she unintentionally spearheaded. When she competed in the Miss South Africa pageant in 2019 with her bold, shaven head, it sparked a conversation about embracing natural African beauty. Zozi’s unconventional look helped her win both Miss SA and Miss Universe titles, making her an inspiration for many.

In her journey to the crown, Zozi famously said, “I grew up in a world where a woman who looks like me, with my kind of skin and my kind of hair, was never considered to be beautiful. And I think it’s time that that stopped today. I want children to look at me and see my face, and I want them to see their faces reflected in mine.”

Interestingly, Zozi had previously entered the Miss SA pageant in 2017, wearing a weave, but did not make it to the Top 10. It wasn’t until she embraced her natural hair that her breakthrough moment arrived.

Conclusion

Zozi Tunzi remains a figure of inspiration, regardless of the hairstyle she chooses to wear. While her decision to wear a weave has sparked debate, it serves as a reminder that beauty comes in many forms, and individuals should have the freedom to express themselves in any way they choose.

Motloung’s ability to transition from local productions to major international projects highlighted the depth of his talent. His work consistently demonstrated his dedication to telling stories that resonated with audiences on a profound level, both at home and abroad.

Motloung’s untimely death comes just days after the passing of another beloved South African actor, Darlington Michaels, best known for his iconic role in *Isidingo*. The two losses in such a short time have left the South African entertainment industry reeling.

According to reports, Motloung had been admitted to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Johannesburg due to breathing problems. His condition, however, worsened, leading to his sudden and unexpected passing.

The news of his death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and friends. Tributes have flooded social media, with many paying homage to his legacy and the mark he left on the South African film and television landscape. Fans remember him as a gifted actor whose performances left lasting impressions, while colleagues recall his generosity of spirit, humility, and professionalism on and off the set.

 

 

 

As the South African acting community mourns the loss of Sello Motloung, his legacy lives on through the powerful performances he delivered throughout his career. He will be remembered as a giant in the industry, a man who used his talent to inspire, entertain, and touch the hearts of countless viewers.

Sello Motloung’s contributions to both local and international productions have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His passing is a tremendous loss, but his memory and body of work will continue to inspire future generations of actors.

Motloung is survived by his family, friends, and a legion of fans who will cherish the memories of his exceptional career.

The South African entertainment industry is mourning the loss of a beloved veteran actor, Sello Motlaung, who passed away on September 15, 2024. Known for his outstanding performances in various roles, Motlaung’s death has left a deep void in the hearts of his colleagues, fans, and the entertainment community at large.

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of the most heartfelt tributes came from actress Florence Masebe, a well-respected figure in the South African entertainment scene. Masebe took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express her sorrow and frustration over the industry’s ongoing issues regarding artist compensation. She highlighted that, despite the many tributes being paid to Motlaung, artists like him are often still denied royalties for their work.

In one of her posts, Masebe wrote, “Just RIPs. Still no royalties,” accompanied by heartbroken emojis. This brief but powerful statement reignited conversations around the compensation struggles faced by many South African artists. Masebe has been a vocal advocate for artists’ rights and has been involved in campaigns pushing for fair compensation and royalty payments for performers.https://twitter.com/Penguin_films/status/1835651681662406803?s=19

In another post, Masebe shared a picture of both Sello Motlaung and the late Mpho Sebeng, writing in her native Tshivenda, “Vhathu vhanga,” which translates to “My people,” further expressing her grief over the loss of these talented individuals.

### Social Media Reacts

Florence Masebe’s posts quickly gained attention, with many of her followers and fans of Sello Motlaung echoing her concerns and offering their condolences. Social media users praised Masebe not only for her tribute but for continuing to shed light on the difficult circumstances many artists face behind the scenes. One user, @Mphahleletk, commented, “I remember you making a submission in parliament, but the Bill is yet to be signed. Do you, by any chance, know why?”

Others expressed their sorrow and shared memories of Motlaung’s performances, with some even tagging government officials like the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, calling for action on the royalties issue. Another user, @i_am_shumani, tweeted, “She’s talking to you @GaytonMcK @SportArtsCultur @PresidencyZA,” urging officials to address the concerns raised by Masebe.

### Tributes from Fellow Actors

Katlego Danke, another prominent figure in South African television, also paid tribute to Sello Motlaung. In her emotional post, Danke spoke about the profound impact Motlaung had on her and other actors who had the privilege of working alongside him. His sudden passing has left a lasting mark on the industry, with actors and fans alike remembering him for his exceptional talent, humility, and kindness.

### The Struggles of South African Artists

The untimely death of Sello Motlaung has once again brought to the forefront the financial difficulties faced by many artists in South Africa. Despite their contributions to the industry, many performers, especially veterans like Motlaung, struggle to secure financial stability after their careers have peaked. Masebe’s advocacy serves as a reminder of the need for systemic changes to ensure that artists are adequately compensated for their work, both during and after their careers.

As the South African entertainment industry continues to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Sello Motlaung, his passing has become a moment of reflection on how the country values and treats its artists. Fans and colleagues will remember him for his captivating performances, but the ongoing conversation about artists’ rights, championed by the likes of Florence Masebe, ensures that his legacy will also be one of change and advocacy for those who come after him.

The South African entertainment industry has recently experienced a profound loss with the passing of two remarkable actors within a short span of time. The late Sello Motloung, beloved for his contributions to film and television, paid a heartfelt tribute to his former co-star Darlington Michaels, just hours before he too passed away.

On Sunday, September 15, Sello Motloung, aged 54, took to social media to honor Darlington Michaels, who passed away just two days earlier on September 13. Darlington, best known for his iconic role as Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela on the long-running soap opera *Isidingo*, was a cherished figure in the industry. At the age of 78, Darlington left behind a rich legacy of performances that captured the hearts of audiences across the country.

 

In a touching Facebook post, Sello reminisced about the time he and Darlington worked together on the 1997 film *Chikin Biznis*. Reflecting on those moments, Sello’s tribute was filled with nostalgia as he remembered the remarkable cast that included industry veterans like Fats Bookholoane, Connie Chiume, Nomhle Nkonyeni, and many others. His words evoked a deep sense of admiration and respect for the late Darlington, with whom he had shared many unforgettable moments on

“The three of us had a ball in that scene,” Sello wrote, referring to a scene involving him, Darlington, and Bookholoane that, despite not making it into the final cut, remained a special memory for him. He emphasized how much joy and camaraderie were shared during the filming process, underscoring that the magic of acting often lies in the experiences formed during production, not just in the final product.

Sello concluded his heartfelt message with a simple yet profound farewell: “Sleep Well… Bra Darlington Michaels. Thespian & Theatre Maker.”

In his tribute, Sello shared the profound impact of working alongside Darlington, acknowledging that as a young actor at the time, he felt as though he was in a “masterclass” just by being in the same space as his talented co-stars. His reflection on their work together in *Chikin Biznis* and *Isidingo* showcased his deep appreciation for Darlington’s skill and presence both on and off the screen.

Sadly, just hours after sharing this tribute, news broke that Sello himself had passed away. Reports indicated that the actor collapsed at home and was rushed to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, he could not be saved. His sudden passing sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment community, as fans and fellow actors mourned the loss of another beloved figure.

Sello Motloung, known for his roles in hit television shows like *Generations* and *The Wife*, made significant contributions to South African television and film throughout his career. Like Darlington Michaels, Sello’s performances left an indelible mark on the industry, and he will be remembered not only for his talent but for the warmth and professionalism he brought to every role.

As South Africans reflect on the lives of these two incredible actors, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of celebrating the legacies left behind by those who have touched our hearts. Both Darlington Michaels and Sello Motloung enriched the South African entertainment landscape with their remarkable talents, and their contributions will continue to be cherished for generations to come.

May they both rest in peace, and may their memories live on through the timeless performances they gifted us.

HIS family has suffered a significant loss.

This after veteran actor and performer Darlington Michaels died on Friday, 13 September.

The Joburg-based actor, whose real name was Teboho Ndarana, died after a short illness aged 78.

The death of Darlington, who was known as Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela on Isidingo, touched many South African TV lovers and his fans.

Xoli Noah, the family spokesman, told Daily Sun that they’re deeply hurt by the actor’s passing.

He said his death left a void in their hearts and those who loved him.

“We’ve suffered a great loss as a family. His role was beyond being an actor. He was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a friend, a colleague, and a mentor to many,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

“It’s with deep sadness that he passed on in hospital on the 13th of September. This was after enduring a short illness which left us shattered as we were hopeful that he would fight through,” Xoli said.

He said Darlington will be remembered for his vivid, vibrant, and witty personality.

Xoli noted that he played a significant role in the South African film industry and contributed greatly to black excellence in the arts.

The family extended their heartfelt gratitude to all his fans, supporters, and the community.

They also mentioned that the details of the memorial and funeral services will be communicated in due course.

The South African entertainment industry is mourning the loss of legendary actor Darlington Michaels, popularly known as ‘Papa G.’ Michaels, who passed away on Friday, 13 September 2024, will be laid to rest this coming weekend in Johannesburg. Fans and colleagues alike have been expressing their condolences and sharing memories of the iconic actor who became a household name for his role in the popular SABC3 drama series *Isidingo*.

Memorial and Funeral Arrangements

The details of Michaels’ memorial and funeral services have been made public. Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela took to social media to share the arrangements, allowing those who admired and respected the actor to pay their final respects.

The memorial service will take place on Thursday, 19 September 2024, at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani, located in the southern part of Johannesburg. This venue, known for hosting various artistic and cultural events, is a fitting location to celebrate the life of a man who contributed so

 

 

 

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, 21 September 2024, at Uncle Tom’s Community Centre in Soweto West. After the service, Darlington ‘Papa G’ Michaels will be laid to rest at Westpark Cemetery, a significant resting place for many South African luminaries.

Mphela shared the funeral details via his official Twitter account, writing, “RIP: Memorial and funeral service details of the late actor Darlington Michaels #RIPDarlingtonMichaels #RIPPapaG.” Fans and fellow actors have since flooded the post with tributes and fond memories of the late star.

### Life and Career of Darlington ‘Papa G’ Michaels

Born on 1 August 1970, Darlington Michaels, whose real name was Teboho Ndarana, hailed from Pimville, Soweto. He grew up in a culturally diverse household, with a Lesotho-born mother and a father from East London, South Africa. His upbringing in the apartheid era significantly influenced his journey into the entertainment world, as he used his platform to portray complex and meaningful characters.

Despite lacking formal theatrical training, Michaels’ natural talent and charisma shone through on screen. His portrayal of George Zamdela, famously known as ‘Papa G,’ on *Isidingo* earned him widespread recognition. He brought the character to life for over 16 years, making it one of the most memorable roles in South African television history.

### Tributes Pour In for Papa G

Since the announcement of his passing, tributes have poured in from all corners of the country. Fellow actress Khabonina Qubeka, who worked alongside Michaels on *Isidingo*, paid her respects by sharing a heartfelt post on social media. She reflected on their time working together, acknowledging the significant impact that Michaels had on her life and career. “Working with him was an honor, and his presence will forever be missed on screen and in our hearts,” Qubeka said.

The entertainment industry has lost a true icon, and South Africans are mourning the loss of a man who brought joy and intrigue to their screens for nearly two decades. As the country prepares to say its final goodbyes, Darlington ‘Papa G’ Michaels’ legacy will live on through his unforgettable performances.

Michaels’ passing has left a void in the hearts of many, but his work will continue to inspire future generations of actors and entertainers. May he rest in peace.

The long-standing feud between South African rappers Duncan and Big Zulu has taken an unexpected and bizarre turn, with Duncan making a bold comic statement by symbolically “burying” his rival. In a move that shocked and amused fans alike, Duncan recently visited a cemetery, where he placed a portrait of Big Zulu on a tombstone, symbolizing his latest strike in their ongoing rivalry.

This feud between the two rappers has been simmering for quite some time, with both artists exchanging heated words and jabs in public. Their back-and-forth has become a major talking point within the South African hip-hop community, drawing attention to their contrasting styles and personalities. However, Duncan’s latest stunt seems to have taken things to a new level, offering a dramatic visual metaphor that suggests he is ready to put an end to their quarrel — or, at the very least, declare his victory.The symbolic burial, though intended to be humorous, has added a layer of tension to the feud. By visiting a real cemetery and placing Big Zulu’s image on a tombstone, Duncan is making a bold and theatrical statement that some have interpreted as a final blow in their rivalry. To many, the gesture appears to be Duncan’s way of saying he has “killed” the competition and emerged victorious — at least for now.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The public gesture has sparked a range of reactions across social media. Some fans found Duncan’s comic stunt hilarious, appreciating the creativity and humor behind it. They see the stunt as an entertaining continuation of the feud, adding a light-hearted dimension to what has otherwise been a heated exchange between the two artists. Duncan’s fans, in particular, have applauded him for his daring move, interpreting it as a show of dominance and a clever way to keep the spotlight on the rivalry.

However, not all responses have been positive. A significant portion of fans believes that Duncan may have taken the joke too far, arguing that the gesture crosses the line from playful banter to disrespect. These critics feel that symbolically “burying” a fellow artist, even in jest, is a step too extreme and could potentially escalate the feud into something more serious. Some have expressed concerns that this move might provoke a strong reaction from Big Zulu or his supporters, further intensifying the rivalry.

As of now, Big Zulu, known for his commanding presence in the South African hip-hop scene, has yet to respond to Duncan’s latest stunt. The rapper, who has previously been vocal about his position in the feud, is now in the spotlight once again, with fans eagerly awaiting his next move. Given the symbolic weight of Duncan’s gesture, Big Zulu’s reaction will likely play a significant role in determining where the feud heads next.

For now, the South African music community is left in suspense, wondering whether Big Zulu will choose to retaliate with his own dramatic gesture or if he will dismiss the stunt altogether. Regardless of how the feud develops, one thing is certain: the rivalry between Duncan and Big Zulu remains one of the most talked-about conflicts in South African music today, and neither side appears ready to back down anytime soon.

As the feud continues to unfold, fans can only wait and watch to see how this latest chapter will impact the relationship between the two rappers — and, more importantly, how Big Zulu will choose to respond.

Makhadzi, the BET Award-winning musician, has revealed that her upcoming album was hacked, forcing her to release some of her music earlier than planned. The South African star took to social media to expose the alleged hacker, sharing photos of the man she claims was responsible for the leak.

The incident came to light when Makhadzi, famous for hits like “Motorokisi,” shared that she was left with no choice but to release a single ahead of schedule to prevent the hacker from leaking it first.

“ATTENTION ‼️ This is the man who hacked my album… Unfortunately, he’s failing to upload it. I am now forced to drop ‘Aiwa Bafana’ visuals this Friday before he can leak it… Let’s hope October 4th arrives before he leaks the whole album,” she wrote in a post that quickly gained traction.

 

 

 

 

 

Makhadzi’s upcoming album, titled *Miracle Child*, was initially slated for release later, but the hacking incident disrupted those plans. The singer is now releasing some of the content earlier to prevent the hacker from taking control of the narrative. Despite this setback, Makhadzi remains hopeful that her official release date will still go as planned.https://twitter.com/MakhadziSA/status/1835748961136587208?s=19

Earlier this month, Makhadzi announced her new album, sharing the inspiration behind it. According to the singer, the title *Miracle Child* reflects her belief in herself as someone who has overcome numerous challenges in life. She expressed her gratitude to God, whom she credits with giving her another chance to succeed.

“What’s life without challenges and celebration? How do you know God if He has never come and rescued you, giving you another chance to breathe and count your blessings? Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce my album cover, *A Miracle Child,*” Makhadzi wrote on Instagram.

She further elaborated on the meaning behind the album’s visuals, stating that it symbolizes both her struggles and successes.

“I opened my wardrobe and found nothing to wear to cover my pain and celebrations. I decided not to cover them; instead, I wore all my pain and celebrations. All challenges in life are God’s protection, and all celebrations are God’s blessings and miracles,” she added.

After unveiling her album cover, fans were quick to notice the striking resemblance between Makhadzi’s artwork and the cover of Rihanna’s *Unapologetic* album. Both album covers feature similar hairstyles and hand placements, with comparable fonts and color schemes. While the similarities drew attention, Makhadzi has not directly commented on the comparison.

The singer’s new album will be released under her own label, Makhadzi Entertainment, which continues to strengthen her presence in the South African music industry.

This isn’t the first time Makhadzi has had to overcome challenges in her career. Earlier this year, she shared in an interview that she had to borrow money from a loan shark to attend the prestigious BET Awards ceremony. Her journey, filled with both struggles and triumphs, continues to inspire fans across the globe.

Despite the setback caused by the album leak, Makhadzi’s fans are eagerly awaiting her new music. The early release of her single and visuals for *Aiwa Bafana* has only heightened anticipation for the full album, which is expected to drop on October 4, 2024.

With her resilience and determination, Makhadzi is once again proving why she remains one of South Africa’s most beloved and influential artists.

Thando Dlamuka and her husband Siyacela, stars of the reality show *Isencanelengane*, have reportedly welcomed their second child together. This news has taken many by surprise, particularly given the tumultuous events that transpired in the most recent season of the show.

Throughout the latest season, the couple’s relationship has been fraught with tension and conflict. Siyacela’s abusive behavior towards Thando was a significant focus, culminating in discussions about his desire to take a second wife. These revelations sparked widespread anger among viewers, who felt that Thando was being mistreated and deserved a better situation. Many fans were vocal in their disappointment, urging Thando to end her relationship with Siyacela and seek a healthier environment.

 

 

 

The announcement of Thando’s second pregnancy has intensified the public’s reaction. For many, it’s a troubling development, as they had hoped Thando would distance herself from Siyacela’s problematic behavior. The news has been met with a mix of shock and dismay, with many questioning Thando’s decisions and expressing concern for her well-being. The situation has stirred a considerable amount of controversy, with fans and critics alike expressing their frustration and disappointment.

In the context of the show’s narrative and the real-life implications of the couple’s relationship, the arrival of their second child adds another layer of complexity. The public’s reaction highlights a broader discussion about relationships, abuse, and personal choices, with many feeling that Thando deserves much better than what she appears to be receiving from Siyacela. As the story unfolds, viewers remain hopeful that Thando will find the support and happiness she deserves.

A 27-year-old woman from Odendaalsrus, Free State, is set to appear before the Odendaalsrus Magistrates’ Court on charges of concealment of birth. This comes after a gruesome discovery of a newborn baby’s body, found inside a deep freezer at a property she rented.

The woman reportedly handed herself over to the police after the shocking incident, which has left the local community in disbelief. Authorities are currently investigating the details surrounding the case, and the woman is expected to face formal charges in court soon.

Disturbing Discovery in Odendaalsrus

 

 

 

The discovery was made when the owner of the property, where the woman rented a shack, called the police to report finding the body of a newborn in his freezer. The owner, shocked by his discovery, informed the police that the deep freezer was located inside the shack being rented by the woman.

Upon arriving at the scene, the police found the body of the baby wrapped in a tracksuit top and placed inside a plastic carry bag. The body had already frozen, suggesting it had been there for some time. According to police spokesperson Captain Stephen Thakeng, “The body of the baby was already in a frozen state.”

Paramedics were called to the scene and confirmed that the infant was deceased. The baby’s body was then taken away for further examination, while police opened a case of concealment of birth and began their investigation.

### Mother Hands Herself Over to Police

At the time of the police’s arrival, the mother of the infant was not at the rented shack. Authorities initiated a search to locate her, but she remained out of sight for a period. However, on Thursday, 12 September, the woman voluntarily turned herself in at the Odendaalsrus police station.

The woman’s decision to surrender herself has raised questions about her state of mind and the circumstances leading to this tragic event. The concealment of birth charge is a serious offense in South Africa and is typically brought against individuals who attempt to hide the birth or death of a newborn.

### Options for Those Unable to Care for Their Babies

In light of this tragic incident, it’s important to note that South Africa offers several options for individuals who find themselves unable to care for a baby. These options focus on the well-being and safety of both the mother and child and include safe abortion, adoption, and foster care.

Under South African law, women are legally allowed to terminate a pregnancy up to 20 weeks. For those who decide to carry the pregnancy to term but are unable to care for the baby, adoption is a viable option. Through adoption, a child can be placed in the care of another family who is willing to raise and support the child.

Foster care is another option, offering temporary guardianship for the child until a more permanent solution, such as adoption, is found. These alternatives are designed to prevent situations like the one in Odendaalsrus and provide safe, supportive environments for both mothers and children in crisis.

### Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings

The case has sparked public outrage, with many calling for harsher penalties for individuals who neglect or harm their children. The tragic death of this baby serves as a reminder of the importance of offering support and resources to vulnerable individuals, particularly young mothers who may feel overwhelmed.

The 27-year-old woman will remain in custody until her court appearance, where she will face charges related to the concealment of birth. As the investigation unfolds, more details about the circumstances leading to the infant’s death may come to light.

This case serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges faced by many individuals who may be unaware of the resources available to them during pregnancy and beyond.