Category Archives: news and entertainment

Babes Wodumo Remembering Late Husband Mampintsha

**Emotional Tribute at INK-KASI Xperience**

On Sunday, 15 December, Babes Wodumo, the beloved Gqom artist, moved fans to tears during her performance at the 10th annual INK-KASI Xperience held at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu, north of Durban. The singer opened up about her grief, recalling the loss of her late husband, Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo, a member of the popular group Big NUZ, who passed away in December 2022.
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Breaking down in front of her audience, Babes shared her struggles, stating that Christmas would no longer be the same for her since Mampintsha died just a day before the festive holiday. “Mampintsha died on 24 December, and I can’t enjoy Christmas on 25 December. Please pray for me and give me love,” she pleaded.


 

 

 
**A Heartfelt Surprise for Babes Wodumo**
During her performance, Babes received a touching tribute from the event organizer, Philani “Splash” Ngwenya. To honor Mampintsha’s memory, Splash presented Babes with a beautifully crafted portrait of her late husband, accompanied by a playlist of some of his iconic songs. The emotional moment was overwhelming for Babes, who could not hold back her tears as she held the portrait.

Speaking on his decision to honor Mampintsha, Splash revealed the late musician’s significant role in the inception of the INK-KASI Xperience. “We have this biggest event here because of Mampintsha. He was the one who suggested it should take place in KwaMashu 10 years ago. I felt it was only right to remember him and decided to surprise Babes Wodumo,” he explained.

**Fans Show Support for Babes Wodumo**
Fans at the event were equally moved and showed their love and support for Babes during the heartfelt tribute. Babes, whose real name is Bongekile Simelane, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming kindness from her fans and the organizers. However, she admitted that coping with the loss remains a daily struggle.

Mampintsha’s untimely passing left a void not only in Babes’ life but also in the South African music industry. His contributions to the Gqom genre and his role in the success of Big NUZ remain celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.https://youtu.be/dnJQ3PtJlZw

**A Legacy Remembered**
The INK-KASI Xperience turned into a celebration of Mampintsha’s legacy, reminding attendees of his impact on the music scene and the community of KwaMashu. Splash’s decision to incorporate a tribute to Mampintsha was praised as a beautiful way of keeping his memory alive.

As the festive season approaches, Babes Wodumo continues to navigate life without her beloved husband. Her resilience and strength in sharing her vulnerability with her fans highlight the deep connection she shares with her audience.

Is Namhla Returning? Thuli Phongolo Sp@rks ‘Generations’ Comeback Rumors

Fans of Generations: The Legacy are buzzing with excitement after a recent TikTok video posted by actress Thuli Phongolo sparked speculation about her possible return to the show. Thuli, who portrayed the beloved character Namhla Diale, may be hinting at a comeback, sending social media into a frenzy.

Thuli Phongolo’s Mysterious TikTok Post
Thuli Phongolo recently shared a TikTok video of herself at Urban Brew Studios—the very location where Generations: The Legacy is filmed. She accompanied the clip with a cryptic caption:


 

 

 

 

 
“You’re on set but then you realize your true calling.”

This unexpected post has left fans wondering: Is she simply visiting, working on a different project, or actually reprising her role as Namhla? The possibilities are endless, and speculation is running wild.

A Look Back at Namhla’s Departure
Namhla Diale, the daughter of the infamous Jack Mabaso, was a fan-favorite character on Generations: The Legacy. Thuli Phongolo portrayed Namhla for four years before leaving the show in 2018. At the time, she shared an emotional farewell message on social media, which she later deleted—an action that has fueled rumors for years.

Since her departure, Thuli has kept busy, taking on roles in hit series like The Wife on Showmax and Rockville. While she has successfully expanded her acting career, the thought of her returning to Generations has fans on edge with anticipation.

What Would a Namhla Comeback Mean?
If Namhla were to return, it could shake up the storyline in a major way. Her character, a tech-savvy and independent woman, had deep connections with some of the show’s most powerful figures—especially her father, Jack Mabaso.

Would her return bring drama? Absolutely. Fans are already imagining intense confrontations, shocking revelations, and, of course, the signature suspense that Generations: The Legacy is known for.

Reality or Just a Tease?
At this point, nothing has been confirmed. Thuli has not explicitly stated that she is rejoining the cast, and Generations: The Legacy producers have remained silent on the matter. However, with the actress dropping such a major hint, fans will be watching closely for more clues.

Until then, all we can do is speculate, rewatch Namhla’s most iconic moments, and hope that Thuli Phongolo gives us more hints about what’s next. Stay tuned for updates!

Komie Mohale Bids Farewell to Scandal! Season 22 as the Show Enters a New Era

A Dramatic Season Finale
Fans of e.tv’s Scandal! experienced an emotional whirlwind as the show wrapped up its explosive Season 22. The finale brought intense drama, shocking twists, and a significant transition for both the storyline and its beloved characters. Among the highlights was actress Komie Mohale’s heartfelt farewell to the season, which initially sparked speculation about her future on the show. However, fans can rest easy—Mohale is not leaving Scandal! but rather embracing an exciting new phase as the series moves forward into a new era.

 

 

 

 
The NFH Explosion: An End and a New Beginning
The Season 22 finale was marked by a dramatic turning point—the NFH explosion. This catastrophic event symbolized the end of an era for the long-running soap opera, clearing the way for fresh narratives, new faces, and unexpected developments. The destruction of NFH is more than just a plot twist; it represents the show’s reinvention, ensuring that Scandal! continues to captivate its audience.

With a one-year time jump, Scandal! is set to return with a brand-new world. While new characters will be introduced, familiar faces will also make a comeback, promising fans the same level of suspense, intrigue, and drama they’ve come to love.

Komie Mohale’s Emotional Goodbye
Komie Mohale, who portrays the fan-favorite character Tlhogi, took to social media to reflect on the season’s end. Her posts, “Farewell my beloved 🥹😍 it’s been good.” and “Hebanna, farewell to the last season guys, khante?😂” initially led many to believe she was exiting the show. However, she later clarified that her messages were simply a way of acknowledging the transition from Season 22 to a fresh new era of Scandal!.

Mohale’s fans were quick to express their excitement and curiosity about what the future holds for Tlhogi and the rest of the cast. With Scandal! embracing change, viewers are eager to see how their favorite characters will navigate the new challenges ahead.

Komie Mohale: More Than Just Tlhogi
Beyond her role in Scandal!, Komie Mohale has established herself as a multi-talented entertainer. She is not only an actress but also a scriptwriter, model, and director. Her journey on the show has solidified her reputation in the industry, and as Scandal! evolves, she remains a key part of the unfolding story.

What’s Next for Scandal!?
With Scandal! stepping into a bold new chapter, fans can expect heightened drama, deeper character arcs, and even more unexpected twists. The introduction of new characters will add fresh dynamics, while the return of old favorites will bring nostalgia and continuity.

As the show moves forward, lingering questions remain: What’s next for Tlhogi? How will the return of past characters influence the storyline? And what surprises does Scandal! have in store for its loyal viewers?

One thing is certain—Scandal! is far from over, and the drama is only getting started!

Denise Zimba’s Custody Battle: A Heartbreaking Update

The internet is abuzz with heartbreaking news about South African actress and media personality, Denise Zimba. Known for her vibrant and energetic presence in shows like Generations: The Legacy and How To Ruin Christmas, Denise has always been a beloved figure. However, her personal life has taken a difficult turn as she reportedly lost custody of her daughters.

Court Ruling in Favor of Her Ex-Husband
Reports from Women For Change indicate that the Johannesburg High Court has ruled in favor of Denise’s ex-husband, Jakob Schlichtig, granting him custody of their daughters. The ruling states that the children will be moving back to Germany with their father, as the court deemed that separation from him would cause them distress.

 

For Denise, this decision is undoubtedly devastating. Losing custody of one’s children is a painful experience, especially when international relocation is involved.

A Look Back at Denise’s Journey
Denise’s relationship with Jakob has been under public scrutiny for some time. The couple tied the knot in 2022 and moved to Germany together, along with their first daughter. However, after the birth of their second child, Denise returned to South Africa. Reports suggest that marital problems played a role in her decision.

In March 2024, Denise hinted at her struggles as a single parent through social media posts, subtly revealing the challenges she was facing. Things escalated further in January 2025, when she made shocking claims that Jakob had been unfaithful—allegedly cheating on her with her childhood friend. This revelation added another layer of complexity to their ongoing custody battle.

The Emotional Toll of Custody Battles
Custody disputes are never easy, and when international borders come into play, the stakes become even higher. For Denise, this legal decision means not only losing custody but also being geographically separated from her daughters. The emotional toll this must be taking on her is unimaginable.

At this stage, details surrounding the case remain limited, and legal matters are often complex. However, one thing is certain—this is a challenging period for Denise and her children.

Support and Well-Wishes for Denise
Fans and supporters have taken to social media to express their sympathy and send messages of support to Denise. Many are hoping that she finds strength during this difficult time and that a solution is reached that prioritizes the well-being of her daughters.

While the internet can often be a place of harsh judgment, it is important to approach such personal matters with compassion and understanding. Denise has always been known for her strong and resilient spirit, and her fans are rallying behind her.

As this story continues to unfold, many will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures the best possible outcome for all involved—especially the children.

Minnie Dlamini bags Forbes Africa award

Minnie Dlamini expresses gratitude as she wins at the 2025 Forbes Africa Award.

Taking to social media, the South African star announced she won the Excellence in Entertainment award.

 

 

 

 

She expressed gratitude to Forbes for the recognition, and also to her supporters.

“Last night I won the award for Excellence in Entertainment @forbesafrica Y Thank you for the honour and thank you to everyone who has contributed to my journey and supported me over the years. To my family this is for you,” she wrote.

Minnie Dlamini’s new lover Dr Brian also dedicated an Instagram post to her win.

Comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane passes away at 31

Ebenhaezer Dibakwane passes away

The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Ebenhaezer Dibakwane, a beloved comedian and actor who passed away yesterday at the age of 31.

Dibakwane, who celebrated his birthday in January, first gained widespread recognition in 2016 when he won the Newcomer Award at the 6th annual Savanna Comic’ Choice Awards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In a statement from Pickledginger Entertainment Agency, his management team expressed their sorrow, saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of celebrated comedian, actor, and writer Ebenhaezer Dibakwane. A friend to so many, he will be remembered for his off-the-wall humour and original style of stand-up comedy.”

Dibakwane made his television acting debut in 2015 with a guest role in the e.tv soapie Ashes to Ashes and later became a presenter on SABC1’s Walala Wasala.

He went on to share the stage with some of the biggest names in comedy, performing at the Comedy Central International Comedy Festival alongside Trevor Noah, Aries Spears, Jeff Ross, Hannibal Buress, Marc Lottering, Basketmouth, Carl Joshua Ncube, Eugene Khoza, Tats Nkonzo, and many others.

Beyond stand-up, he also acted in TV shows like Divorced at 50 and Real Estate Sisters and appeared in multiple television commercials.

His family has stated that details regarding his memorial and funeral services will be shared in due course.

Denise Zimba loses legal battle to her estranged husband Jakob Schlichtig.

Denise Zimba and her estranged husband Jakob Schlichtig

Denise Zimba loses legal battle to her estranged husband Jakob Schlichtig.

The marriage ended after she discovered that her Jakob had allegedly been unfaithful with a close friend of 14 years.At the time of their separation, the former Generations actress and TV presenter made it clear that she had no regrets about leaving him.

 

 

 

 

 

 
Now, the Johannesburg High Court has ruled in favor of Schlichtig, granting him the right to take their daughters, aged five years and 19 months, back with him to Germany.

Women For Change, an organisation advocating for women’s rights and fighting against gender-based violence, has voiced its support for Zimba as she continues to fight to keep her children in South Africa.

“Denise Zimba has been relentlessly fighting to keep her two young daughters in South Africa, the only home they truly know,” the organisation stated.

It also criticised the court’s reasoning, saying, “The court filed documents and claimed that the girls would be distressed without their father but failed to acknowledge the devastating trauma it would have on the children to tear them away from their mother and their home.”

According to the organisation, Zimba, her husband, and their first daughter moved to Germany in 2022. However, after giving birth to their second child, the family returned to South Africa.

As marital conflicts persisted, Zimba felt more supported by loved ones and decided to remain in Cape Town with the children.

Initially, Schlichtig agreed and returned to Germany, but he later filed a Hague Convention case against her, arguing that she had unlawfully kept the children in South Africa.

Since then, Zimba has been in an ongoing legal battle to secure the right to raise her daughters in what she considers a safe and loving environment.

Women For Change reaffirmed its stance in support of Zimba and other mothers facing similar battles, stating that too often, these struggles are fought alone, unheard, and with heartbreaking losses.

Scandal Unfolds! Mapitsi Caught in a Compromising Position with DJ Thomas

In a shocking turn of events, Skeem Saam fans were left stunned when Mapitsi was caught in a compromising situation with none other than DJ Thomas. The unexpected twist has sent shockwaves through viewers, leaving everyone wondering what will happen next. Will she try to keep it a secret, or will she come clean and face the consequences? Let’s break down the drama!

Caught in the Act: What Really Happened?
Mapitsi, known for her strong personality and ambitions, has always been focused on building a stable life for herself. However, recent developments suggest that she may have risked it all. A secret rendezvous with DJ Thomas has raised serious questions about her current relationship. The encounter, which was witnessed by someone who may not keep quiet for long, could spell disaster for Mapitsi’s love life.

 

 

Was this a moment of weakness, or is there something deeper going on? Fans have speculated about tension in her relationship, but no one expected this bombshell.

A Secret or a Confession?
With the truth on the verge of coming out, Mapitsi is faced with a tough decision. Should she try to cover it up and hope no one finds out, or should she take responsibility and deal with the consequences?

Keeping it a secret may seem like the safest option, but secrets have a way of coming out—especially in a world as dramatic as Skeem Saam. If her partner finds out from someone else, it could lead to even bigger problems. On the other hand, confessing might give her a chance to explain herself and possibly save her relationship.

The big question remains: Will she take control of the situation, or will she let it spiral out of control?

What This Means for Her Relationship
For fans who have been rooting for Mapitsi’s love life, this development is a major setback. If her partner discovers the truth, it could mean the end of their relationship. Trust, once broken, is difficult to rebuild, and this revelation could change everything.

Some fans believe that this might just be a misunderstanding, while others are convinced that Mapitsi’s relationship is doomed. Will her partner be willing to forgive, or will this be the final straw?

Social Media Reactions
As expected, social media has erupted with opinions. Fans of Skeem Saam are divided—some are shocked and disappointed, while others are eagerly waiting to see how things unfold.

Twitter Reactions:

“Mapitsi? With DJ Thomas? I did NOT see this coming! 😱 #SkeemSaam”
“She better tell the truth before someone else does! This is not going to end well. #DramaAlert”
“This could be a misunderstanding… or the beginning of the end. What do you guys think? 🤔”
What’s Next for Mapitsi?
With the drama reaching new heights, fans are left on the edge of their seats. Will Mapitsi own up to her actions, or will she try to bury the truth? Whatever happens next, one thing is certain—Skeem Saam never fails to deliver jaw-dropping moments.

What do you think Mapitsi should do? Is this just a bump in the road, or is it the end of her relationship? Share your thoughts!

Everything You Need to Know About Kamogelo Maree – The Talented Actress Behind Thoriso More

Kamogelo Maree, best known for her role as Thoriso More in Scandal!, has captivated audiences with her talent and resilience. Behind the scenes, however, she has been quietly facing a life-altering challenge. Born on November 6, 1996, in Kagiso, Gauteng, the 27-year-old actress has been living with partial blindness. Fans have speculated that her condition might be linked to Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive vision loss.

A Silent Battle with Vision Loss
Kamogelo has kept her condition private, but during an emotional Scandal! scene, she hinted at her real-life struggles. In a conversation with her on-screen nephew, Khumo, Thoriso revealed that she wasn’t born blind but lost her vision gradually. This moment resonated with viewers, leading to speculation that the actress might be facing a similar challenge in reality.

 

 

 

 

 

What is Retinitis Pigmentosa?
Retinitis Pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that affects the retina’s photoreceptor cells, known as rods and cones. People with RP typically start with normal vision but experience symptoms like night blindness and tunnel vision as the condition progresses. Eventually, it can lead to severe vision impairment or complete blindness.

Instagram Clues: A Journey of Change
A closer look at Kamogelo’s Instagram reveals a timeline of her vision loss. Older photos from over a decade ago show her without glasses, enjoying life to the fullest. However, as time went on, subtle changes became noticeable. Thicker glasses appeared in her images, and her expressions began to reflect the toll of her condition.

Despite these changes, Kamogelo’s spirit remains unbreakable. Her social media posts radiate positivity, resilience, and strength, proving that she refuses to let her condition define her.

A Fighter with a Strong Will
Kamogelo is not only a gifted actress but also a determined individual with a passion for making a difference. Her Instagram bio reads:

Her unwavering Christian faith and optimism shine through in her words and actions.

But her determination isn’t new. In 2018, while studying at the University of Johannesburg, Kamogelo was an active member of the South African Students Congress (SASCO), the country’s largest student political movement. Photos from that period show her raising her fist in solidarity, smiling proudly as she stood for student rights and social change.

A Passion for Advocacy and Change
One striking image from 2018 shows Kamogelo seated among fellow activists, captioned “Elections underway.” Her raised fist symbolizes her commitment to progress, showing that she is just as bold off-screen as she is on-screen.

Another image, where she beams with confidence, is captioned “Sasco Bae’s.” This playful yet powerful statement reflects her enthusiasm for activism and her drive to create a positive impact in her community.

The Subtle Clue in the Background
While Kamogelo may not have openly discussed her disability during her college years, one particular photo suggests that she was part of a supportive environment. In the background, a person in a wheelchair is visible, hinting that she may have been associated with initiatives supporting people with disabilities even before her vision loss became more evident.

A Star Who Defies the Odds
Kamogelo Maree’s journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and determination. Despite her vision challenges, she has thrived in the entertainment industry, proving that obstacles can be turned into opportunities. Scandal! hasn’t just given her a role; they’ve highlighted her real-life perseverance, making her story even more impactful.

While the exact timeline of her vision loss remains uncertain, one thing is clear—Kamogelo is a force to be reckoned with. She embodies the spirit of a true fighter, refusing to let adversity stand in her way.

A Beacon of Hope and Inspiration
Kamogelo Maree is more than just an actress—she is an inspiration. Her journey reminds us that no challenge is too great to overcome. Through her talent, activism, and unwavering positivity, she continues to break barriers and inspire millions.

Her story is not just about overcoming hardship; it’s about redefining possibilities. She stands as a beacon of hope, proving that resilience and passion can turn any struggle into a triumph.

Lebo M’s mother to be laid to rest as family expresses gratitude for support

Lebo M’s mother

Grammy Award-winning composer and Lion King producer Lebogang “Lebo M” Morake is mourning the loss of his mother, Magogo Nomvula Grissel Mboni Morake, who passed away last week at the age of 100.

She will be laid to rest on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Fourways Memorial Chapel.


 

The family confirmed that Magogo Morake died peacefully last Friday morning after a restful night.

In a statement through spokesperson Simphiwe Majola, they expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support received during this time.

“The burial service to honour the extraordinary life will take place on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 08:00 to 10:00 at Fourways Memorial Chapel. She will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Mr. Morake, at Fourways Memorial Cemetery,” said Majola.

“The Morake family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and comfort during this difficult time. Your kindness and presence, whether in person or in spirit, mean so much as they bid farewell to a cherished matriarch.”

Magogo Morake’s passing comes at a time when Lebo M is celebrating a major milestone in his career. His latest international project, Mufasa: The Lion King, has grossed an impressive $700 million (R13 billion) globally.