Month: August 2024

The entertainment industry is mourning the passing of Thabiso Sikwane who passed away on Saturday, 31 August at 50 years.

THABISO SIKWANE: DEAD
Entertainment commentator, Phil Mphela confirms the passing of Thabiso Sikwane on Saturday, 31 August.

“Radio and television personality Thabiso Sikwane has passed away. Thabiso was married to DJ Fresh for 20 years until they announced their amicable divorce in 2022. She was 50 years old”, says Mphela

The family of the legendary radio personality also confirms her death in a statement on social media.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thabiso, whose dedication and passion for Christ, family life and the media and entertainment left an indelible mark on colleagues and audiences alike.”

“We are deeply saddened by this loss and pray her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

The family also reveals that details of her memorial and funeral services will be shared in the coming days.

 
 

What a sad way to end women’s month 💔😢RIP to Thabiso Sikwane & Jessica Mbangeni.Heartfelt Message from Menzi Ngubane’s Widow Reveals Deep Struggles: “The Kids Are Struggling, the Younger One Has Lost Weight”

The passing of beloved South African actor Menzi Ngubane in March 2021 sent waves of grief across the nation. At the age of 56, Menzi, known for his iconic roles in television dramas, succumbed to a stroke, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and the entertainment industry. But perhaps the greatest impact of his loss is felt in the quiet moments of his family’s life, where the absence of a father and husband is a wound that time has yet to heal.

 
Two years after his untimely death, Menzi’s widow, Sikelelwa Sishuba, remains engulfed in sorrow, her heart still aching with the pain of his departure. On what would have been Menzi’s birthday, Sikelelwa took to social media to share a deeply emotional message dedicated to her late husband. Her words, a poignant reflection of enduring love and profound loss, reveal the raw grief that she and her children continue to grapple with daily.

“The day God called your name, it broke my heart in two but Heaven needed an angel, and the one he picked was you,” Sikelelwa wrote in her tribute, accompanied by cherished photos of Menzi. “I wish he could’ve waited and let you stay with me, but you have left memories in my heart and that’s where they’ll always be.”

These words, filled with longing and heartache, capture the unimaginable pain of losing a partner who was the center of her world. Sikelelwa’s wish to rewind time, to hold him just once more, resonates with anyone who has faced the devastating reality of death.

“I just wish I could rewind the clock or make it turn real slow so that I could hug you one more time before you go,” she continued. “No matter how much time will pass, I will miss you every day. Keep shining bright in heaven, Nomafu, so you can light my way. Happy heavenly birthday, Dali.”

These lines are not just a tribute to a loved one who has passed; they are a cry from the depths of a heart still broken, still yearning for the comforting presence of a husband who is no longer there. The grief, so palpable in her words, underscores the ongoing struggle of moving forward while holding on to the memories of a life that was cut short too soon.

In a candid interview with TshisaLIVE, Sikelelwa opened up about the challenges she faces as a single mother, trying to hold her family together in the wake of Menzi’s death. The pain is not hers alone; it is shared by her children, who are navigating the difficult journey of growing up without their father.

“It’s still difficult. Every morning I wake up in disbelief that he’s really gone. It’s unbelievable and still hurts as if it happened yesterday,” Sikelelwa revealed, her voice carrying the weight of her sorrow. “ABut while Sikelelwa has found some measure of strength to talk about Menzi, the impact of his absence on their children is a constant source of worry. Her youngest son, in particular, has struggled to cope with the loss, his grief manifesting in ways that are painfully visible.

“The children are struggling; the younger one even lost weight. He doesn’t have an appetite. It’s bad, but we’re trying to cope as best as we can,” she shared. “The void he left won’t close, but I have to be strong for the children.”

Sikelelwa’s words paint a vivid picture of the day-to-day reality of life without Menzi. The void he left is not just emotional—it is physical, felt in the emptiness at the dinner table, in the quietness of a home once filled with his laughter. Her youngest son’s loss of appetite and weight loss is a heart-wrenching symptom of the deep emotional turmoil he is enduring, a stark reminder of how grief can affect even the youngest members of a family.

This ongoing struggle is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of Menzi Ngubane’s loss—not just on his fans and the entertainment industry, but on the family he left behind. Sikelelwa’s story is one of resilience in the face of overwhelming sorrow, a testament to the strength required to carry on when the person you loved most in the world is gone.

At just 23 years old, Cyan Boujee has taken the social media world by storm and solidified her position as South Africa’s richest young woman. Born on August 25, 2001, in Johannesburg, Cyan has quickly risen to prominence as a bubbly and influential personality in the country.

 

Cyan’s journey to success is nothing short of remarkable. With an estimated net worth of R50 million, she has not only captured the attention of her millions of followers but also established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of business and influence.

Her rise to fame began as a social media influencer, where her vibrant personality and captivating content quickly gained her a massive following. But Cyan didn’t stop there—she leveraged her influence to build a successful brand that spans various industries, contributing significantly to her impressive wealth.Cyan Boujee’s success story is an inspiration to many young South Africans, proving that with determination, creativity, and a strong work ethic, it’s possible to achieve greatness at a young age. As the richest young woman in the country, Cyan continues to break barriers and set new standards in the world of influence and entrepreneurship.

Her journey is a testament to the power of social media and the opportunities it presents for young people to build their brands and amass significant wealth. As Cyan Boujee continues to thrive, she remains a shining example of what can be achieved with ambition and hard work.

Coming up on Isitha: The Enemy this September 2024:

 

Monday 2 September 2024
Episode 91 (335)Nomsa is shocked by the news that falls on her ears. Zandile is with Madzodza when a call comes in from Rebs. Chuma is up to no good, but it’s all to save the depot.

Tuesday 3 September 2024
Episode 92 (336)

Bidding War

Madvodza and other wealthy bidders enter the depot and the auction commences as they enter into a bidding war. Solomzi and Rebs arrive unexpectedly at the auction and place a bid.

Wednesday 4 September 2024
Episode 93 (337)

Brother to Brother

Chuma and the other protesters are arrested. Nandi informs Solomzi and Rebs that Velaphi was also detained. Solomzi persuades Simelane to release Chuma, Velaphi and the other protesters.

Thursday 5 September 2024
Episode 94 (338)

Fire on the Mountain

Solomzi informs the Sokhulus that he has changed ownership of the depot to Nomsa, but their joy is short-lived when Velaphi alerts them to rush to the depot.

Friday 6 September 2024
Episode 95 (339)

Come Fetch Your Kids

The Sokhulus arrive at the depot just in time to stop Chuma and they inform him that Nomsa is the new owner of the depot. Nkanyiso hires Minenhle to market his new business.

Monday 9 September 2024
Episode 96 (340)

Heartbreak

Rebs feels betrayed when she learns that Solomzi transferred ownership of the depot to Nomsa. After apologising to no avail, Solomzi decides to move out, leaving Rebs devasted.

Tuesday 10 September 2024
Episode 97 (341)

An Heir For My Forgiveness

When Rebs threatens to go after the Sokhulus, Solomzi apologies to Rebs for his actions and offers to do anything to make amends. Rebs tells him that she wants a grandson who will become heir, leaving Solomzi shocked.

Wednesday 11 September 2024
Episode 98 (342)

Celebration, Reflection And A Proposition

Solomzi struggles to digest Rebs’ request for an heir. The people of Esihlahleni celebrate Rebs at her pre-funeral party. Rebs later asks Nolitha to conceive an heir for her.

Thursday 12 September 2024
Episode 99 (343)

Mother of a Nation

Displeased with her pre-funeral party, Rebs decides to plan the party herself. When Thenjiwe suggests daycare for Ayanda, TK suggests that she look after the toddler instead.

Friday 13 September 2024
Episode 100 (344)

The Good Step Mom

Chuma storms out when Matshidiso tells him that Thenjiwe is taking care of TK’s children. Andile and Andiswa are terrified when they witness TK threatening Thenjiwe after his altercation with Chuma.

Monday 16 September 2024
Episode 101 (345)

The Enemy Within

Rebs visits Stella, Vusabalele’s protege and requests that she remove the dark powers surrounding her. Thenjiwe stops Andile and Andiswa from running away.

Tuesday 17 September 2024
Episode 102 (346)

Gone Too Soon – RIP Ma’am Rebs

Stella performs a cleansing ritual on Rebs and gives her a concoction for a peaceful death. Tella instructs Rebs to mention the people she’s killed as she drinks the concoction.

Wednesday 18 September 2024
Episode 103 (347)

Mother Of The Year

Rebs is dressed in an elegant dress as she prepares for her final moments. Rebs and the rest of the guests are left sobbing as Nkanyiso makes his speech.

Thursday 19 September 2024
Episode 104 (348)

Unexpected News

Dr Esethu tries to save Rebs, while Solomzi and Martha stand by hopelessly. Nyiko and Phara Boy propose a merger with the Sokhulu salon, but Malume Bulelani turns them down.

Friday 20 September 2024
Episode 105 (349)

Life and Death

Dr Esethu shares with Rebs some shocking news, leaving Rebs, Solomzi and Martha relieved. Thenjiwe and TK enter into an altercation and TK’s gun is accidently discharged.

Monday 23 September 2024
Episode 106 (350)

Baby Ayanda

TK picks up the gun then flees as Ayanda cries in the background. Thenjiwe and the children are relieved when they find an unharmed Ayanda.

Tuesday 24 September 2024
Episode 107 (351)

When It Rains, It Pours

Thenjiwe is defensive and blames Nomsa for her actions. Nolitha offers Chuma a job but Chuma refuses.

Wednesday 25 September 2024
Episode 108 (352)

Heroes to Zeroes

Bra Solly confesses to Nomsa that he lost his job. Chuma reminds Bra Solly of his age as he should be looking for a new job instead of asking for beer money.

Thursday 26 September 2024
Episode 109 (353)

Goodbye Mabuza Mansion

Chuma sends his men out to hunt for TK. The Mabuza’s pack up to vacate the mansion. While Rebs insists on growing a tighter bond with Solomzi.

Friday 27 September 2024
Episode 110 (354)

Wins and Losses

Ntsimbi entices Chuma to work for him and Bandze warns him of the consequences. The salon is closed, much to Thenjiwe’s annoyance, and Phara Boy realises that he stole his own job.

Monday 30 September 2024
Episode 111 (355)

A Woman’s Worth

Rebs grows curious about Ntsimbi’s background when he makes her an offer she can’t refuse. Thenjiwe frantically tries to find TK before Chuma does.

Premiere episodes of Isitha: The Enemy air on e.tv from Mondays to Fridays at 21h30.

Udeme Okon speaks out on xenophobia in SA: ‘There is a lot of it’
Gold medallist Udeme Okon, who has been praised by Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie, has spoken out about racism and xenophobia in South Africa.

The 18-year-old – whose father is Nigerian – won the 400m race in the U20 World Championships in Lema, Peru.

 
UDEME OKON SPEAKS UP ABOUT XENOPHOBIA
Speaking to the media after clinching the 400m gold medal, Udeme Okon revealed that although he has a Nigerian name, thanks to his Nigerian father, he was born in South Africa to a South African mother.

Udeme revealed that he chose to represent his birth country.

However, the University of Johannesburg student has revealed he has been discriminated against along the way.

gayton mckenzie, udeme okon, chidimma, nigerian
Minister Gayton McKenzie has defended gold medallist Udeme Okon. Images via X: @gaytonmck
He said: “Even in the build-up to this, there is a lot of xenophobia and racism based on if you are from South Africa. There is a lot of that in the country.”

Addressing his critics, he added: “I feel like we should accept and welcome people into specific countries. No matter where they are from.”

View this post on Instagram

GAYTON SAYS GOLD MEDALIST IS ‘LEGAL’
Meanwhile, Minister of Sport, Art, and Culture Gayton McKenzie has received criticism for praising Udeme Okon after criticising pageant hopeful Chidimma Adetshina a few weeks ago.

He tweeted on Friday, 30 August: “Gold everywhere. Well done, Udeme Okon, for your great victory in the men’s 400m final.”

However, one tweep “reminded” Gayton, and other South Africans about Udeme’s mixed parentage – a Nigerian father and a South African mother.

“He’s from Nigeria, Minister,” @golide_tsh85753 tweeted.

Celebrity sangoma Lee Ann Makopo – affectionately known as Gogo Maweni, took to Instagram to celebrate her birthday.

She has been winning big this year, from spreading her wings to agriculture to tying the knot. Definitely, 2024 is a year to remember for the bubbly sangoma.

Gogo Maweni celebrates 38th birthday: ‘2024, I’ve got no words’

 

GOGO MAWENI CELEBRATES HER 38TH BIRTHDAY
Gogo Maweni ditched her long, heartfelt birthday posts for a shot appreciation post as she celebrates her birthday.

She posted, “2024, I’ve got no words. You’ve been too good to me. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! Another amazing year.”Since then, the post has undoubtedly gained thousands of comments and reactions. Fans and fellow celebrities were quick to flood her comments section with warm birthday wishes.

In the backdrop of her post, South Africans have been trying to connect the dots about his age. Over the years, she has kept her age under wraps, leaving many to guess.

However, the celebrated sangoma is 38 years old. She was born on 29 August 1986. She once revealed her age in a now-deleted Instagram post.

Gogo Maweni’s age has undoubtedly left many puzzled. Fans quickly celebrated her big wins as she turned a year older.

BOOMING BUSINESS EMPIRE
Gogo Maweni has been winning big with her husband in recent years and has fast become one of the most celebrated celebrity couples.

The two have been investing heavily in their booming business empire, which is worth millions.

On her 38th birthday, The South African dived into her business empire, which often thrust her into top trends.

CATTLE RANCHINGIn January, the celebrity sangoma revealed that she was venturing into agriculture. Gogo Maweni later shared a clip while cattle shopping.

REAL ESTATE

At the age of 38, Gogo Maweni and her husband have several properties dotted around South Africa, according to reports.

The tension between South African sangomas Gogo Maweni and Gogo Skhotheni has escalated into a public feud after controversial remarks were exchanged between the two. The conflict reached new heights when Gogo Maweni accused Gogo Skhotheni of using her children in traditional rituals, sparking a fiery response from the latter.

In a recent Instagram live session with social media personalities Inno Morolong and Musa Khawula, Gogo Maweni made disparaging comments about Gogo Skhotheni and her family, suggesting that Skhotheni’s children were involved in her traditional practices. This allegation, particularly targeting Skhotheni’s son, who has faced serious health challenges since birth, has fueled the ongoing feud between the two traditional healers.

 

 

 

 

Speaking to *TshisaLIVE*, Gogo Skhotheni voiced her disappointment and frustration over Maweni’s remarks, especially concerning her son, who has spent the first twelve months of his life in and out of the hospital due to complications from being born prematurely. “She spoke about my son who is sick and has been admitted to the hospital for about 12 months. I’ve shared my son’s journey on social media; he was born prematurely,” Skhotheni stated. She further explained that while she initially ignored the personal attacks on her physical appearance, she could not remain silent when Maweni implied her son’s illness was tied to traditional rituals.

Gogo Skhotheni did not mince words in her response, challenging Maweni to confront her directly in a traditional setting rather than making provocative comments on social media. “I’m not afraid of you with all that you have. If you want to scare me by going around talking about me, get into the *ndumba* (a traditional healing space) and deal with me if you have a problem with me, don’t go making noise on social media,” Skhotheni declared in a live video. She emphasized that bringing her children into their dispute was unacceptable and accused Maweni of overstepping boundaries.

The drama between the two did not stop at the comments about Skhotheni’s children. Recently, a video surfaced in which Maweni alleged that Skhotheni’s husband is bisexual. In her response, Skhotheni reaffirmed her love and commitment to her husband, dismissing Maweni’s allegations as unwarranted interference in her personal life. “She went on and said my husband is bisexual, and in that department, if he is, why would it be her problem? My husband sleeps with me and not her. I love my husband, and he loves me too, so she must just rest and live her life and back off from my family,” Skhotheni stated.

In a calmer moment, Skhotheni took to Instagram to urge Maweni to end their public feud, emphasizing the need for respect and privacy. Maweni, on the other hand, claimed she had tried to end the conflict by blocking Skhotheni and deleting her contact information but felt hurt by Skhotheni’s continued public statements. Maweni’s post suggested that she had taken steps to de-escalate the situation, but the tension between the two sangomas remains palpable.As the drama unfolds, fans of both traditional healers are left to watch the saga with bated breath, wondering if this public feud will eventually cool down or escalate further. With neither party showing signs of backing down, it remains to be seen whether Gogo Maweni and Gogo Skhotheni will find common ground or continue their bitter rivalry in the public eye.

The future of the award-winning Kwaito and Gqom group Big Nuz is in jeopardy as its remaining member, Danger, real name Mzingisi Tshomela, voices his growing dissatisfaction with DJ Tira’s label, Afrotainment. Following the deaths of his fellow group members, R. Mashesha and Mampintsha, Danger finds himself grappling with uncertainty and a lack of support from the label that once championed their success.

 
Since the passing of Mandla ‘Mampintsha’ Maphumulo two years ago and Sibusiso ‘R-Mashesha’ Khumo in 2015, Big Nuz’s dynamic has shifted drastically. Danger is now left alone to carry the legacy of the group that skyrocketed to fame with hits like “Umlilo” and “Superman” from their 2009 album, *Undisputed*. What was once a celebrated journey now seems like a distant memory overshadowed by loss and discontent.

Sources close to the situation reveal that Danger has been deeply unhappy at Afrotainment since the loss of his group members. His frustration has been growing, with one insider disclosing that Danger even asked DJ Tira to release him from his contract due to his dissatisfaction with the label’s lack of interest in Big Nuz.

“He asked DJ Tira to release him from his contract,” a source explained, pointing to the widening rift between Danger and the label. Another source noted that the relationship has become strained, with Danger feeling neglected and unsupported. “It doesn’t seem like DJ Tira is interested in Big Nuz anymore without the other members who are no more,” the source added.

The success of Big Nuz brought significant revenue to Afrotainment, especially after the breakthrough of their 2009 album *Undisputed*, which included chart-topping songs like “Umlilo” and “Superman.” However, Danger now feels abandoned, as DJ Tira’s focus appears to have shifted away from the group, especially following Mampintsha’s death.

“In the past, the group brought a lot of money to Afrotainment,” said the source. “Today, DJ Tira has forgotten about all that. He doesn’t have time for Danger because the outspoken member, Mampintsha, is no more.”

In a bid to keep the group’s legacy alive, Danger has been performing alongside Bhar, another co-founder of Big Nuz. However, sources suggest this collaboration has not provided the revival Danger hoped for, intensifying his desire to leave Afrotainment. Despite these efforts, Danger remains determined to continue his music career and has been recording with emerging Gqom artists to explore new opportunities.

“He’s been recording with some unknown artists. He’s frustrated and doesn’t know what to do anymore. He needs to make money, and there are no gigs coming in. He has a family to support, but it’s tough for Danger,” another source stated.

DJ Tira’s involvement with Danger has not been entirely absent. In 2018, Tira featured on Danger’s solo project *Dangerous*, but the song failed to resonate with Big Nuz’s fan base, leaving Danger in an uncertain position.

The situation highlights the complex dynamics of the music industry, especially when a group loses its core members. As Danger navigates this challenging period, the future of Big Nuz hangs in the balance, with fans left wondering if the group can survive without its founding members.

When reached for comment, Danger declined to speak on the matter, while DJ Tira did not respond to calls or WhatsApp messages, leaving the fate of Big Nuz in question.

POPULAR kwaito singer and songwriter L’vovo Derrango, whose real name is Thokozani Ndlovu, will be hosting a stroke prayer on 7 September 2024 at Utrecht Town Hall in KZN.

He’ll be joined by his industry colleagues such as Mxolisi “Zuluboy” Majozi, Pastor Mpume Ndlovu, and fitness trainer Sanele Mtshali.

The 43-year-old from Newcastle in KZN suffered a stroke in December 2022 after performing on stage. He’s known for his hit songs such as Resista, Ama-Tintin, and Bayang’sukela.

L’vovo told Daily Sun he’s happy people have been there for him while he was sick. The award-winning musician said this makes him happy and assures him that there are people who care about him.

He said that musician Lerato, popularly known as Lira, has been supportive to him.

“This means a lot to me to get support from someone who went through the same thing. This is someone who understands what I went through,” he said.

The musician said he has recovered and is now ready to share his stroke journey with other people.

“I’ll be going around teaching many people about stroke. I’m happy that I’m healed. I’ll be back on stage soon. Thanks so much to everyone who showed love to me during my hardest time,” he said.

Grace Mtshali, the event organiser, told SunTeam that she’s happy for the opportunity to get a platform and bring women together in the celebration of Women’s Month.

“We, as women, need to pray for all the challenges we encounter in family life, in society, and workplaces. We need the intervention of God to deliver us from GBV, inequality, and poverty or unemployment. These challenges lead to stress and suffering, which relate to chronic diseases. This can lead to stroke attacks,” she said.

She said this chronic disease’s so dangerous that it doesn’t choose colour, gender, or financial status.

“The community should be aware of the causes and what they can do to decrease the effects of stroke,” she said.

Angelina Jolie, the renowned actress and humanitarian, made headlines at the 81st Venice Film Festival this week.

ANGELINA JOLIE ON THE RED CARPET
Jolie, 49, is attending the festival to promote her latest biopic, Maria, a film about the legendary opera singer Maria Callas.

 
The actress was dressed in a breathtaking champagne gown by couture house Tamara Ralph, according to Daily Mail.

She turned heads not just for her stunning appearance but also for her compassionate act. The gown featured elegant off-the-shoulder detailing and a soft faux-fur stole.

ANGELINA JOLIE’S SPECIAL MOMENT
However, it was her interaction with a fan that truly stole the show, according to Morung Express.

As she prepared to enter Sala Grande for the world premiere of Maria, Jolie paused to meet a bed-ridden fan who suffers from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

This progressive neurodegenerative disease impairs nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This impacts a person’s ability to move, speak, swallow, and breathe.

ANGELINA JOLIE’S KINDNESS
Jolie knelt down beside the fan, gently placing her hand on his shoulder. It was a moment of genuine connection, a stark contrast to the glamorous red carpet.

The fan, who was visibly moved by the encounter, shared his gratitude with Jolie. “Thank you for this moment,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.

Jolie responded with a warm smile, demonstrating her trademark kindness, according to The Daily Guardian.

PERSONAL EMPATHY
Her gesture was not only a display of her personal empathy but also highlighted her commitment to using her platform for good.

The Venice Film Festival, renowned for its celebration of cinema, provided a fitting backdrop for Jolie’s act of kindness.

MARIA
Angelina Jolie promoted the film Maria, directed by Pablo Larraín, which explores the life of Maria Callas. Known for her remarkable voice and tumultuous life, Callas is the central figure in the film.

Jolie’s portrayal of Callas is highly anticipated, and her dedication to the role reflects her respect for the opera icon’s legacy.

Jolie’s appearance at the festival was also notable for her candidness about the challenges of portraying Callas.

SINGING FOR THE MOVIE
She admitted to being nervous about her singing scenes.

“My sons were there to support me, and they helped lock the door so nobody else could come in.”

Jolie’s dedication to her role included months of vocal training with renowned coach Eric Vetro.

Eric is known for working with stars such as Ariana Grande and Shawn Mendes.

VENICE FILM FESTIVAL
The Venice Film Festival, held in the romantic city of Venice, Italy, is a significant event in the film industry.

Jolie’s appearance not only drew attention to her film but also underscored the festival’s ability to bring together cinema and personal stories.

Her interaction with the ALS patient reminded everyone that behind the glitz and glamour, there are moments of profound humanity.

VISUAL AND EMOTIONAL JOURNEY
Jolie’s film Maria explores the highs and lows of Callas’s life, including her famous affair with Aristotle Onassis and her eventual decline.

The film promises to be both a visual and emotional journey, much like Jolie’s recent actions.

Her presence at the festival and her heartfelt moment with the fan have resonated with many. This reflects a side of the actress that goes beyond her on-screen roles.

A PROFOUND IMPACT
Angelina Jolie is now preparing for the Toronto International Film Festival.