Month: July 2024

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) have joined a chorus of those criticizing the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, as well as its minister, for publishing the amounts it paid to musician Makhadzi.

The league has also condemned the department for making public a list of artists who received financial support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Newly-appointed Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie also announced that his department would no longer cover the costs of transporting and accommodating “super fans”, who follow local teams to big tournaments.

The ANC Youth League’s Zama Khanyase has described these actions as unethical.

“It is absolutely unacceptable for a department, that should be the stronghold of our nation’s creatives, artists and dedicated superfans, to instead engage in actions that lower and undermine those it is supposed to uplift.”

At the same time, the department has been hauled over the coals for its decision to make public how much international award-winning artist, Makhadzi, was paid for rendering services to the government.

Makhadzi revealed recently that she had to loan money to travel to the BET Awards due to financial trouble.

The EFF said that the department was wrong to turn a legitimate plea from the public for her to be assisted to humiliate her.

“The department must desist from victimising artists who are already struggling in an unregulated, untransformed industry because, for 30 years, this department had not been doing its job. If Makhadzi had done something wrong or stole those amounts that the department has released, they would have been well within their rights but this was unprovoked, it was unprofessional,” said EFF member of Parliament, Fana Mokoena

In a shocking turn of events, Sophie Ndaba, the beloved South African actress, is reportedly heartbroken following the news that her ex-husband, Themba ‘Brutus’ Ndaba, has remarried. This marks Brutus’ third marriage, but what makes this situation particularly painful for Sophie is that his new bride is none other than her best friend.The Wedding That Shook Sophie

Themba Ndaba’s Third MarriageThemba Ndaba, famously known as Brutus from the hit television series “The Queen,” has tied the knot again at the age of 58. This wedding comes as a surprise to many, not just because it’s his third, but due to the identity of his new wife.

 
Sophie Ndaba’s Emotional Turmoil

Sophie Ndaba, who has already faced numerous challenges in her personal life, is reportedly devastated by this development. Friends close to the actress revealed that she did not see this coming, especially from someone she considered a close confidante.

Betrayal by a Best Friendbetrayal has left Sophie questioning the sincerity of their friendship and coping with the emotional fallout.

Public and Media Reactions

Social Media BuzzThe news of Themba Ndaba’s remarriage has created a buzz on social media, with fans and followers expressing their shock and support for Sophie. Many are rallying behind her, sending messages of encouragement and sympathy during this tough time.

Media Coverage

Media outlets have been quick to cover this dramatic twist in the lives of two prominent South African celebrities. The story has reignited interest in Sophie Ndaba’s personal life, bringing back memories of her past struggles and triumphs.

Sophie Ndaba: A Journey of Resilience Overcoming Past ChallengesSophie Ndaba is no stranger to adversity. From her public battle with diabetes to her previous tumultuous relationships, she has always shown remarkable strength and resilience. Her fans admire her for her ability to bounce back from life’s challenges, and they hope she will overcome this heartbreak with the same fortitude.

Looking Forward

While the news is still fresh and painful, those close to Sophie Ndaba believe that she will eventually find a way to move forward. Her resilience and the support from her fans and loved ones will undoubtedly play a crucial role in her healing process.

Conclusion

Sophie Ndaba’s heartbreak over Themba Ndaba’s remarriage to her best friend is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and relationships. As she navigates through this difficult period, the public continues to support her, hoping she will emerge stronger and more resilient than ever. The story serves as a testament to the complexities of human relationships and the enduring spirit of a woman who has faced many challenges and continues to inspire.

Former Smoke and Mirrors actress Zazi Kunene talks about her career break through
Zazi Kunene does not regret delaying her last year of university studies to pursue her ambition of appearing in a Netflix dance performance. Her journey to her big break was not simple, which is what makes it all worthwhile.
“I used to stutter, which made me not speak much and I faced severe buIIying to an extent that I would come back home from school and I wouldn’t be okay. I didn’t enjoy schooI and sometimes I would cry before going to schooI,” she saidZazi Kunene does not regret delaying her last year of university studies to pursue her ambition of appearing in a Netflix dance performance. Her journey to her big break was not simple, which is what makes it all worthwhile.

 

 

 

 

 
Growing up in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, she faced bullying at school due to childhood-onset fluency disorder. So her mother enrolled her at the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy there.

“I used to stutter, which made me not speak much and I faced severe bullying to an extent that I would come back home from school and I wouldn’t be okay. I didn’t enjoy school and sometimes I would cry before going to school.”After enrolling at the drama school, she says her confidence improved. But what her mom didn’t realise was just how much little Zazi would fall in love with acting. In 2007, she performed her first role as King Duncan in Macbeth and never looked back.Zazi’s newfound confidence led her to win multiple roles throughout her high school years, including one in the re-enactment of the Mbongeni Ngema production Sarafina! done by the University of Kwazulu-Natal in 2016.

By the time she made it to Johannesburg for her first year of studying drama at the University of Witwatersrand in 2018, Zazi nabbed a role in a Wits school of the Arts Open Forum production titled Ukuvuna at the Soweto Theatre and was also cast in a Joburg Theatre production called History, her first time on a stage of that magnitude. Zazi was also cast in Vuselela, a production that was showcased at the National Arts Festival in 2018.

She says that even though her mother comes from the generation of parents who would prefer their kids to pursue a “stable” profession, “she chose to stick with me on this one,” says Zazi. “My mom has really supported me, immediately from when she saw that I really loved this acting thing and I wanted to pursue it.”Despite the infancy of her career, Zazi sure is flourishing. In 2019 she was cast in her first lead role in a short film titled Moya, which was awarded the “Best Student Film” award at the South African Film and Television Awards in 2020. This was followed by a role in made-for-TV film Emlanjeni and her superb acting in the horror Pinky Pinky — a role that set her apart from her peers as she received rave reviews for playing twin characters Nomzamo and Nomava.

With the outbreak of the global pandemic, things seemed as if they were about to stall for the young actress as several productions came to a halt.

That was until she got the call to audition for the role of Nolwazi in Netflix’s latest African original production, Jiva! Kunene admits to wishing she was as confident and charismatic as her character when she was that age.

“I saw what I wanted to be when I was growing up. Although I think I am charismatic, I realise it’s only coming out now because I grew up with a stutter, which made me a very shy kid. So when I played her, I kind of got to feel how it would have been like to be like that while I was growing up,” she says.

As the Tembisa community bands together to search for Busi, Nkosi reassures Mampho that their daughter will be found alive and unharmed. Tuesday 9 July 2024
Episode 257
After learning that Nandipha is likely behind Busi’s kidnapping, Mampho and Maria turn down Funani’s offer to move into the Zwide mansion for their safety and blame his feud with Nandipha for Busi’s kidnapping.

Wednesday 10 July 2024
Episode 258

Faith comforts Funani as he admits the evil that Nandipha is capable of – she scares him like he’s never been scared before.

Thursday 11 July 2024
Episode 259

Funani and Nkosi arrive at the location and much to their disappointment, find a doll wrapped up in blankets with Busi nowhere in sight.

Friday 12 July 2024
Episode 260

Season 3 finale!

After a heartfelt promise to Nkosi that he’ll bring Busi back, and with everyone discouraging him, Funani sets out to meet Nandipha on the terms she’s laid out.

Monday 15 July 2024
Episode 1
As everyone celebrates Busi’s safe return, Funani struggles to process the trauma of Nandipha’s brutal death.

Tuesday 16 July 2024
Episode 2
While everyone worries about his whereabouts, an emotionally troubled Funani watches Nandipha’s father grieving at her funeral and is moved by the old man’s grief.

Wednesday 17 July 2024
Episode 3
Funani returns to HoZ but fails to find his passion. He subsequently walks out on a client and later admits to his sangoma that he feels lost and is in a bad space.

Thursday 18 July 2024
Episode 4
After his visit with the sangoma, Funani decides to follow his heart and makes the startling announcement that he is leaving HoZ and going back to KZN.

Friday 19 July 2024
Episode 5

Despite heartfelt pleas for him to stay, Funani sticks to his decision to leave and after packing his bags, he has a final farewell drink with Laz.

Monday 22 July 2024
Episode 6

An emotional Funani departs for KZN, leaving the company in the control of his children, while a stunned Faith is left out. Thato reveals to Maria that his mother kicked him out from home but won’t tell Maria why.

Tuesday 23 July 2024
Episode 7
Nkosi calls a meeting with Ona and Zanele to plot the way forward and to decide on the new CEO of HoZ.

Wednesday 24 July 2024
Episode 8

Ona declares she has no interest in the CEO position or in pursuing a career at HoZ, paving the way for Nkosi to become HoZ’s new CEO.

Thursday 25 July 2024
Episode 9

An excited Nkosi prepares himself to announce to the Zwide staff the news of Funani’s departure from HoZ and that he’s the new CEO of the company.

Friday 26 July 2024
Episode 10

Faith is left stunned when Nkosi makes his first bold move as CEO by bringing in an arrogant new designer to be the head designer of HoZ.

Monday 29 July 2024
Episode 11

 

Nkosi’s power move backfires when Eddie publicly announces that he has no intention of joining HoZ as he believes that it’s a sinking ship.

Tuesday 30 July 2024
Episode 12
After Eddie admits that he had no intention of joining HoZ and just wanted to ruin the brand’s reputation, a humiliated Nkosi is left with no choice but to reach out to Ona.

Wednesday 31 July 2024
Episode 13
Nkosi finds himself in a predicament after Ona turns down his offer for her to be HoZ’s head designer and things get even more complicated when Devilliers offers buy HoZ and gives him 24 hours to decide.

Ivy confesses that she misses Obed and that she still loves him. #SkeemSaam

Coming Up Next On #SkeemSaam
Monday 8 July 2024
Episode 6

 
Pretty’s good news backfires, causing unexpected consequences at work. Elizabeth finds support from an unlikely source. Salamina comes up with a plan that could provide Charles with much-needed financial relief.
Tuesday 9 July 2024
Episode 7
Lehasa shocks Khwezikazi with a generous offer. Pax catches Mr Kgomo in a compromising position. A troubling incident at Aprendo leaves Charles feeling exposed.
Wednesday 10 July 2024
Episode 8

Pax shares heartbreaking news with Mrs Kgomo. Khwezikazi throws unfounded accusations. To lift his kids’ spirit, Charles makes a promise he might not fulfill.
Thursday 11 July 2024
Episode 9
Lehasa agrees to Khwezi’s demands, but his conditions are lethal. Melita surprises Mr Kgomo with an unexpected request. Charles is pressured to consider Salamina’s business idea.
Friday 12 July 2024
Episode 10
The new HR manager poses a challenge for Mr Kgomo. Pretty confronts Lehasa about his true identity. Charles finally agrees to execute Salamina’s idea but doesn’t get the reaction he expects from her.

In a significant move in the South African entertainment industry, fan-favorite actor Kwenzo Ngcobo has joined the cast of e.tv’s popular soapie, Scandal!. Ngcobo, known for his acclaimed performance in the hit telenovela The Wife, will debut on the show in August, according to entertainment commentator Mlu.

 

 

Ngcobo’s arrival on Scandal! comes after the departures of actors Matthews Rantsoma, who played the character of Nhlamulo, and Melusi Mbele, who portrayed the role of Jojo. The news of Ngcobo’s casting on the soapie follows the recent announcement that Scandal! will be expanding its episode offering, moving from its current schedule to air every day, from Mondays to Sundays.

Scandal! currently holds the third position on e.tv, with 3.2 million viewers, according to the June figures from the Broadcasting Research Council of South Africa (BRCSA).In addition to his new role on Scandal!, Ngcobo has also secured other prominent acting projects, including the role of Alex Shabane in Netflix’s Soon Comes Night and Zipho in the Mzansi Magic telenovela Champions.

The talented actor, who was named the DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Favourite Rising Star in 2022, has shared his experiences since his success in The Wife. Ngcobo reveals that the period following the show’s completion was both rewarding and challenging, as he had to deal with the loss of his father shortly after filming.

Despite the personal challenges, Ngcobo remained dedicated to his craft, determined to bring his “A-Game” to every project. He also addressed the narrative that he was labeled a “difficult actor with diva tendencies,” stating that he had done a thorough introspection and knew he was never wrong.

Ngcobo’s fans can look forward to his debut on Scandal! in August, as he joins the esteemed cast of the long-running soapie. With his proven acting prowess and the excitement surrounding his new role, Ngcobo’s arrival is sure to captivate audiences and further enhance the already compelling storylines of Scandal!.

Nhlamulo is leaving Scandal
Scandal’s Nhlamulo Dropped by the Show, Viewers Weigh In: “There’s No Storyline for Him Anymore”
It is so sad to see yet another actor leaving a TV show that they contributed so much to while having many viewers stuck to their small screens. Mzansi’s Scandal! has dropped one of their characters. Scandal! actor Matthews Rantsoma leaves the show Social media has been buzzing recently after news that Scandal! actor and Safta Award winner Matthews Rantsoma is leaving the show circulated on social media #etvScandalIn a development that will surely bring tears to the fans of the long-running etv soap opera Scandal!, Matthews Rantsoma who plays Nhlamulo, one of the main characters, is set to exit the series.

 

 

Entertainment insider Phil Mphela shared the unexpected news on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday.Why ‘Nhamulo’ Actor Matthews Rantsoma is Leaving Scandal!
While details regarding the exit remain undisclosed, Mphela suggested that Rantsoma had been let go by the show after a three-year stint.

“Matthews Rantsoma dropped by Scandal. The actor, who joined the etv soapie in 2021, will be leaving theNews of Matthews Rantsoma’s exit from Scandal comes 17 months after Nomvelo Makhanya, who played Nhlamulo’s on-screen wife Lindwe Ngema Maseko, departed from Scandal! in November 2022.Mzansi Reacts to Matthews Rantsoma’s Exit from Scandal!
Upon hearing the news of Matthews Rantsoma’s exit, many South Africans expressed their sadness in the comments section. Some viewers had anticipated this outcome, citing the lack of a compelling storyline for his character. Others pointed out the potential negative impact Nhlamulo’s exit might have on the characters associated with him. Here are a few selected comments:wu that’s so sad,I really enjoyed watching him as Nhlamulo.Hopefully we will see him again on a different show

@PamelaQha:

Phill when you say “dropped” it almost sounds like those instant firings from back in the generations days where an actor’s storyline would end in an abrupt way that you can see even they were not aware of, Unless if that’s the case here also🤣🥴

I have been saying for weeks gore his character has become dormant

@Maaxie_Max:

Lol mos if he leaves then all the characters that came along with him won’t make sense🙆🏽‍♂️🙆🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️

Coming Up On Scandal! Teasers – July 2023Scandal! Teasers July 2024: A man pulls himself from his grave with a rope. George drives Dintle up the nursery way. Love is exempt from work. Dintle is alarmed when she discovers that her sleeping roommate may be in danger. A lady’s ex turns into an outlaw from the law, and she chooses to go on the run with him.Scandal! Teasers July 2024
Wednesday 3 July 2024
Episode 69

A missing individual causes trouble and there’s a significant break of protection. Linda dares to use a loaded gun that is given to her. MaHilda records an explosive moment.

Thursday, July 4, 2024, Episode 70: The truth brings chaos and scrutiny to the surface. Sentiment wins over manly relationship. MaHilda finds herself in trouble due to erroneous gossip.

Friday, July 5, 2024, Episode 71: An announcement announces the need to expose a dangerous situation. When Talitha realizes that her son is in a precarious situation, she steps in.

Episode 72, Monday, July 8, 2024: A call for assistance is made, but is it heard? Despite the woman’s appeal, it appears that those bridges have been burned. Man is broken by Zaza’s greed for money.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024, Episode 73: Layla is on high alert due to a flashback. Zaza’s antics come thumping. The strange behavior of Tlhogi raises questions.

Wednesday 10 July 2024
Episode 74

In an astounding development, the casualty gets the high ground. Vuvu gets energizing news, yet Mihloti suspects something is going on. The tables are turned on Zaza.

Thursday, July 11, 2024, Episode 75: Tlhogi experiences a life-altering shock. Dintle gives someone else her thoughts. Caiphus and Ndumiso acquire more women than they anticipated.

Friday, July 12, 2024, Episode 76: Mdala quickly transforms her joyous news into rage. Ndumiso is confronted with additional issues and community opposition. Khumo is overjoyed to receive an invitation to a party.

Monday, July 15, 2024, Episode 77: Tlhogi’s happy news causes a lot of commotion. Javas’ shallow pockets have him on the less than desirable finish of a few penetrating put-downs. The expression “dressed to impress” takes on a whole new meaning thanks to Tebello.

Tuesday, July 16, 2024, Taps makes some outrageous demands in Episode 78. Jackie and Zaza discover a new victim. Tebello enters a brand-new, exciting world.

Wednesday 17 July 2024
Episode 79

Tlhogi drops a sensation about Taps’ secret past. An evening of guilty pleasure goes off in an unexpected direction, and when all else fails, compromise is unavoidable for Jackie and Zaza.

Thursday 18 July 2024
Episode 80

 

 

 

 

At the point when the police come thumping, the amazing time young ladies are going to raise a ruckus around town times. In the midst of confusion, family ties develop. Tebello’s moment of triumph is fleeting.

Friday, July 19, 2024, Episode 81: Mdala is compelled to make a big decision. Jackie and Zaza get further into trouble as a result of a revelation. As Tebello spins lies to his loved ones, his web of deceit grows even tighter.

Monday, July 22, 2024, Episode 82 When the decisive moment arrives, three people are a bundle of nerves. Linda issues Jackie with a harsh advance notice that things won’t end well assuming she go on down this way.

Tuesday, July 23, 2024, Episode 83: When Vuvu believes her honeymoon is tainted with ulterior motives, trouble erupts in paradise. Tebello coincidentally finds another lucrative thought.

Wednesday 24 July 2024
Episode 84

A mother deceives her girl. Tebello takes “charity begins at home” a bit too literally. Transitory everyday environments allow Jakes an opportunity to plunge into the treasure once more.

Thursday, July 25, 2024, Episode 85: Vuvu makes a damning threat in response to Nhlamulo’s fury. Despite being put under pressure once more, Tebello is determined. Bra Jakes is swindled by Hilda.

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Monday 8 July 2024
Episode 61
Petunia is shocked when Mandla makes her Manager despite the Jerry debacle. Kayise gets Fanyana and Mpendulo into trouble with Ndosh.
Tuesday 9 July 2024
Episode 62

 

 

 

 

Thandiswa panics about the discovery of Nthabiseng’s body. Caesar reassures her, revealing that, to protect her, he planted evidence to point to Mthetho as the perpetrator.
Wednesday 10 July 2024
Episode 63
Thandiswa finds Leroy completely gutted about Mthetho and the fact that he was engaged to a . Sakhile mourns the death of Nthabiseng.
Thursday 11 July 2024
Episode 64
Sakhile arranges a vigil for Nthabiseng. He and Phakathi bond. The community starts to boycott the salon because of Leroy’s association with “Emnyameni’s serial killer”, Mthetho.
Friday 12 July 2024
Episode 65
Sakhile and the community gather for Nthabiseng’s vigil, then lay her to rest. Sakhile confronts the fact that she’s never coming back.

The South African music industry was left reeling when Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana, passed away on December 11, 2023, at the young age of 36. The acclaimed singer-songwriter had built a legacy that transcended her music, inspiring countless fans with her resilience and talent. However, her family is now facing a difficult decision: selling her awards and possessions to make ends meet.

Zahara’s sisters, Lumka Mkutukana and Bandezwa Mkutukana-Febana, have reportedly put up various items from Zahara’s home for sale, including her bedroom suite, lounge suite, kitchen supplies, flat-screen TV, and double-door fridge. Moreover, the awards that bear Zahara’s name are also on the market, but have yet to attract any buyers.

 

 

 

 

 
The decision to sell Zahara’s possessions comes as a last resort, following the auctioning off of her townhouse in Roodepoort last year. The family had planned to repurchase the property, but unfortunately, Zahara passed away before that could happen. The townhouse held sentimental value, as it was a symbol of Zahara’s hard work and dedication to her craft.

Zahara’s achievements in the music industry are nothing short of remarkable. With a career spanning over 11 years, she garnered an impressive collection of over 40 awards, solidifying her position as one of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians. Her music transcended genres, inspiring fans from all walks of life.

The benefit concert planned to raise funds for the repurchase of Zahara’s townhouse has been indefinitely postponed due to venue and funding difficulties. The event, which was slated to feature various artists, including Zahara’s dear friend Vusi Nova, aimed to honor her legacy and raise funds for the family to reclaim their cherished home.

Bandezwa Mkutukana-Febana expressed the family’s sentiment, “Zahara fought for her house while she was still alive, throughout her career that’s what she managed to hold on to. Also, to us, that was like home, that’s why we wanted to keep it because it’s got so many memories for us with her in it. It’s part of her legacy, we do not really want to lose it.”

As the family navigates this difficult time, fans and fellow musicians have come out in support, paying tribute to Zahara’s enduring legacy. Her music continues to inspire and uplift, a testament to her talent and dedication.

The sale of Zahara’s awards and possessions serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our legacies. While material possessions may fade, the impact of Zahara’s music and spirit will continue to resonate with generations to come.

In conclusion, Zahara’s family faces a difficult decision, but her legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of her fans. Her music, her spirit, and her resilience will continue to inspire, even in the face of adversity. As we remember Zahara, we honor her memory by celebrating her life, her music, and the indelible mark she left on the South African music industry.