Basetsana Kumalo set to mark 45th birthday

Former beauty queen and businesswoman Basetsana Kumalo has kicked off preparations for her 45th birthday.

The South African socialite has yet to announce her birthday on her official social media accounts, but videos from other celebrities confirmed the event.

Mzansi celebs including Nandi Madida and Lamiez Holworthy shared videos of the IV for the ceremony.

“Really don’t mean to brag BUT Imagine getting ready for work and not only receiving a gorgeous bunch of flowers from one of your icons but a birthday invite too??? 😭 Can’t wait to celebrate Sis @basetsanakumalo ‘s 45th birthday this week 😍 Now to decide on what to wear,” DJ Lamiez wrote.

However, online users are shocked with the news, knowing well that Basetsana Kumalo celebrated her 50th birthday in 2024.

What is she up to?
🎉 Basetsana Kumalo Defies Time with “45th” Birthday Celebration! 👑✨
Media mogul and former Miss South Africa Basetsana Kumalo has social media in stitches after celebrating her 45th birthday—despite having already marked her 50th in grand style! 🤯🎂
A birthday invitation shared online left netizens confused, with many joking that Bassie is aging backwards. The invite set her celebration for February 8, even though her actual birthday is on March 29. 🤔💃
Fans and celebs couldn’t resist reacting:
😂 @kayise_ngqula: “45th? This year? But we were at her 50th last year, sis.”
😂 @Ntje11: “When you’re rich, you wake up and decide whatever age you feel like that day.”
😂 @Ladyormisstoyou: “She identifies as a 45-year-old woman.”
😂 @OriginalGumz: “At this stage of her life and career, she can do whatever the hell she wants!”
One thing’s for sure—Basetsana Kumalo is the definition of timeless beauty, and if she says she’s 45, then who are we to argue? 😍✨
In addition to her birthday buzz, Bassie is also making waves in the entertainment industry. She’s expanding her empire into film, co-producing and starring in an upcoming movie. 🎬🌟
What do you think of her “ageless” birthday celebration? Is she on to something? Drop your

‘He did some bad things’: Khanyi Mbau announces Kudzai split
Actress Khanyi Mbau revealed that she has left Zimbabwean-boyfriend Kudzai Mushonga who ‘did some bad things’.

South African actress Khanyi Mbau has announced her split from Zimbabwean-millionaire boyfriend Kudzai Mushonga.

KHANYI MBAU ANNOUNCES SPLIT FROM KUDZAI MUSHONGA
Young, Famous & African star Khanyi Mbau has announced that she and her boyfriend, Kudzai Mushonga have gone their separate ways via an Instagram post on Monday 3 February. She expressed that he was a good guy, but he did some bad things and she finally had the courage to leave.

“He was a good guy, but he did some bad things. He tried everything he could to make it up to me. I did most of grieving while we were together. I finally got the courage to leave. And of course I wish him the best,” read the announcement.

“Give everything time.. I am grateful for the experience. 💫,” she captioned the post.

WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT KHANYI MBAU’S RELATIONSHIP WITH KUDZAI MUSHONGA
Khanyi has been dating Kudzai on-and-off since 2021. In 2021, the pair had a public break up. Kudzai dropped Khanyi off at a salon in Dubai and she caught a flight back home to Johannesburg without telling him.

She eventually went back to Dubai and the pair appeared to be loved-up on Instagram and on the first season of Young, Famous & African. The actress later advised women to leave when they are unhappy.

“I was grateful to have that platform because I never spoke about this Dubai thing, people saw it as a mockery. But it was actually a statement to empower you and say know your worth. If you not happy in a place, never stay, leave and work things out,” said Khanyi in an interview on YFM in 2021.

Since then Khanyi and Kudzai had popped up here and there, but mostly remained lowkey on social media, until she now revealed that she has left the relationship.

This comes after Khanyi showed support to Annie Idibia after her husband, 2Baba announced their divorce on social media.

Question and Answers with Gaisang Noge
What do you think your superpower is?
I can make people happy. I know how to make people smile and feel warm inside. I bring peace to people — I’m actually a light to many.

What makes you a legend of tomorrow?
I own my craft and put my heart on my sleeve whenever I am on screen. I believe that will be admired and applauded in the near future.

What makes you a cultural disruptor in your industry?
I’m enchanting and resilient.

What three things have you learnt about yourself thus far in the acting industry?
That I’m a fighter, even in my silence. I’m a good discerner of people’s energies, and can look at the positives despite the chaos that might be happening.

How have you reacted to the backlash about being cast as Naledi in The Wife?
I won’t lie, the comments are quite hurtful. People can’t look past the character that they expected me to be or look like in terms of my body. Growing up, I went through a difficult journey — I was the chubby girl who was just cute.

Take us through that journey?
In tertiary, I lost all the weight, but people who knew me would always throw “skinny” comments at me. Now I’m on TV playing a role people don’t think I fit into because I’m not fat enough. It makes me quite sad, because no matter what you do, you can never satisfy people in how you look.

What’s that one thing we don’t know about you?
My father is Dosto Noge. He’s best known for being a television presenter on SABC1’s Selimathunzi. He’s such a warm dad and a huge motivation, seeing that I’ve also embarked on an entertainment career, just like him.

Sello kaNcube’s estranged wife Pearl Mbewe turns to SIU amid divorce
Sello Maake kaNcube’s estranged wife, Pearl Mbewe, reportedly turned to the Special Investigating Unit for assistance in her divorce battle against the actor.

Award-winning actor Sello Maake kaNcube is making headlines after he sold one of his flashiest cars, part of the estate he was supposed to divide with his estranged wife, Pearl Mbewe.

 

 

 

 

 

However, according to reports, Mbewe has since turned to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate the actor’s alleged car deal.

SELLO KANCUBE’S LEGAL TEAM GOES AFTER HIS ESTRANGED WIFE
It is unknown whether it’s the same car Sello Maake kaNcube repossessed from Pearl Mbewe in December 2024.

Last year, ZiMoja reported that the star had repossessed one of his cars from Mbewe after their fallout. The publication has since noted that the car in question is said to be a sleek Mercedes-Benz C200 Coupe.

Sello Maake kaNcube’s legal team claims that the actor sold the car to raise money for his needs. “Our client disposed of this vehicle in January 2025 in order to provide for his living expenses.

“Your client’s shenanigans caused our client’s income to dry up, resulting in him disposing of assets to pay for his living expenses,” part of the letter reads.

Through his legal team, Sello Maake kaNcube also said that his estranged wife would not receive a cent from an R1.2 million settlement she negotiated.

Reports have it that Pearl Mbewe negotiated the settlement of the actor’s grant from a National Lottery Commission grant, which Sello was owed by a KZN woman.

It seems the actor wants his estranged ex-wife to leave the marriage empty-handed.

Sello Maake kaNcube also informed his legal team to notify the celebrated businesswoman to resign from their two companies.

The actor reportedly threatened to remove her from their two companies, Tap Roots Projects and Sello Maake KaNcube Holdings, if she did not comply with his demands.

FAILED MARRIAGES
Last year, the rumour mill revealed that despite the two tying the knot in 2021, they have been living separately since July 2023.

Sunday World reported in March 2024 that Maake KaNcube reportedly approached Swanepoel van Zyl Attorneys to help him file for divorce.

It is reported that Mbewe engaged with the same lawyers in October, requesting that the divorce be completed and finalised.

This is Maake KaNcube’s second failed union after marrying Palesa Mboweni in 2015 and ending his marriage eight months later.

Thulani Mtsweni and Mapula Mafole’s differences revealed.
Thulani Mtsweni, known for his role as Ntokozo on the South African soapie “Gomora,” has recently been the subject of scrutiny regarding his age.Fans have been convinced that the actor, due to his mature appearance and stature, is much older than his reported age of 30. This revelation has stirred disbelief among his audience.

On March 16, South African Black Twitter president @ChrisExcel shocked Mzansi when he revealed that Thulani Mtsweni is supposedly only 30 years old, as stated by Google. However, there appears to be some inconsistency in online sources concerning his actual birthdate. Some claim he was born on March 12, 1994, while others suggest he was born on July 31, 1968, or March 12, 1987.

According to a report by SavannaNews, Thulani Mtsweni is actually 55 years old. He was born on July 31, 1968, in Tsakane, East Rand, and is a late bloomer in the acting industry. Unlike many soapie stars who achieve success at a young age, Thulani made his television debut in 2015 at the age of 47.On the other hand Mapula is 33 years old.

Thulani’s path to success was not without its hurdles. He faced significant rejection and negativity in the acting industry, enduring years of working in student-produced plays before his big break. His major television breakthrough came in 2017 when he secured a role on “Isidingo” as Shadrack Bhekiziswe Sibiya, a miner with a penchant for trouble. Throughout his career, he has also portrayed Mpihlangene Zungu on “Isibaya” and appeared on e.tv’s “Rhythm City” as an abducted boy.

His role on “Gomora” has made Thulani a household name in South Africa. Fans are captivated by his acting prowess and his ability to convincingly portray his character. However, his mature appearance has sparked debates about ageism in the entertainment industry and the tendency to judge actors by their looks rather than their talent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s not uncommon for actors to play characters that differ significantly in age from their real-life selves. Many actors have taken on roles that require them to appear much younger or older than they are. However, Thulani’s situation has ignited a broader discussion about how actors are perceived and the biases that can limit their opportunities.

Despite facing numerous challenges in his career, Thulani remains steadfast in his pursuit of success. He has openly discussed the importance of hard work, perseverance, and dedication, serving as a role model for aspiring actors in South Africa.

Thulani Mtsweni’s presence on “Gomora” has not only showcased his exceptional acting skills but also highlighted issues of ageism and bias in the entertainment industry. While some fans were shocked to learn about his true age, others have lauded his talent and his ability to bring his character to life. Regardless of the confusion about his age, Thulani’s journey to success is an inspiring story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

As the discussions about ageism and bias continue, Thulani’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of focusing on talent and dedication rather than appearance. His success in the industry is a beacon of hope for many aspiring actors facing similar challenges.

Black Coffee drops a remix of Billie Eilish’s song

Grammy-winning DJ and producer Black Coffee has surprised fans with a fresh take on Billie Eilish’s song CHIHIRO.

Announcing the release on social media, he described the remix as his “weekend gift” to listeners, revealing that he had been eager to share it for some time.

The remix is now available for streaming exclusively on YouTube and SoundCloud, adding Black Coffee’s signature deep house touch to Eilish’s haunting track.

 

 

 
Known for his unique ability to blend soulful rhythms with electronic beats, his reimagining of CHIHIRO is already generating buzz among fans of both artists.

This latest drop showcases Black Coffee’s continued influence in the global music scene, proving once again why he remains a dominant force in electronic and Afro-house music.

Fans can stream the remix now and experience his creative spin on the Billie Eilish hit.

Metro FM Awards return

South Africa’s biggest stars are gearing up for another night of recognition and celebration as the Metro FM Music Awards (MMAs) return on 3 May 2025 at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga.

The prestigious event promises to shine a spotlight on the country’s top musical talents, rewarding them for their hard work and influence in the industry.

 
The road to the MMAs officially begins on 27 February 2025, when nominees across various categories will be announced.

Once again, the awards are backed by the Mpumalanga provincial government and the Motsepe Foundation, with African Fashion International (AFI) adding an exciting fashion element to the event.

The launch announcement took place at the scenic Angels View Hotel in Graskop, where industry leaders gathered to mark the start of this year’s awards season.

SABC’s group executive, Nada Wotshela, highlighted the impact of the MMAs, calling it a crucial platform for artists to showcase their craft and for fans to celebrate South African music culture.

With last year’s winners, including Kabza De Small and Mthunzi, setting a high standard, the excitement is building. Submissions for this year’s awards remain open until 2 February 2025.

Nontokozo Mkhize breaks new record on Spotify

South African singer Nontokozo Mkhize breaks new record on Spotify with her single Esandleni.

The spiritual anthem has officially broken the all-time record for the biggest weekly streams received for any solo song on SA Spotify for a female artist surpassing Adele’s Easy on me.

 

 

 
The fast-rising singer confirmed the news on her Instagram account with a note of gratitude to God.

“And the Lord opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side!” TO GOD BE THE GLORY,” she wrote.

Followers, including friends and colleagues, flooded the post with congratulatory messages.

Netflix drops the teaser of the South African series King of Joburg.

The season 3 of the series will be dropped this year, but the premiere date is yet to be announced.

The teaser which was shared on social media was captioned: “The curse is far from over—power, loyalty, and legacy. The Masire empire reigns supreme. Kings of Jo’burg Season 3. Coming Soon!”

 

 

 
The short teaser which featured talents like Connie Ferguson and Abdul Khoza sparked a buzz with lots of comments.

Khanyi Mbau commented, “Okay guys.. you have our attention. I need a batch of everything immediately.”

Another commented, “🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯ooooh my my my God!!! I can’t wait let me go and rewatch the first 2 again before the drop date.”

Coming up on Skeem Saam this February 2025:
Monday 3 February 2025
Episode 156
A young couple faces an unexpected challenge. Melita’s enthusiasm for a new project causes tension with Mr Kgomo. Phomolo plans to pay lobola for Pretty.
Tuesday 4 February 2025
Episode 157

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth is forced to make a tough decision. Someone grows suspicious of Mapitsi’s relationship with a colleague. Melita sacrifices her dream to please Mr Kgomo.
Wednesday 5 February 2025
Episode 158
Kwaito struggles to come to terms with his wife’s decision. Melita makes secret moves to improve her life. Mapitsi and DJ Thomas are entangled in a dangerous game.
Thursday 6 February 2025
Episode 159
Kwaito and Lizzy’s relationship is pushed to its breaking point. Lehasa faces escalating dangers in prison after Vader warns him of looming threats.
Friday 7 February 2025
Episode 160
Kwaito makes a desperate move, one his wife might not forgive. Melita is rattled by a ghost from her past. Sesi Bertha witnesses something she should not have seen.
Monday 10 February 2025
Episode 161
MaNtuli pushes Kwaito to his breaking point, leading to regrettable consequences. Thomas has a nasty surprise for Mapitsi, and it all happens in front of Tbose. Melita confesses to Mr Kgomo about the real reason she didn’t get the pageant gig.