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In the world of television, some stars are born, while others are discovered in the most unexpected places. Hlelo from Uzalo is one such star who was plucked from obscurity and groomed for success. Growing up in a very poor family, Hlelo faced numerous challenges that could have easily broken her spirit. However, fate had other plans.

 

 

 

 

Hlelo before and after Uzalo debut
Hlelo’s Early Struggles
Hlelo’s childhood was anything but easy. Born into a family that struggled to make ends meet, she didn’t even have the opportunity to attend a decent school. The hardships she faced at a young age made her contemplate giving up on life altogether. But as they say, every cloud has a silver lining.

A Life-Changing Moment at Umemo Festival
The turning point in Hlelo’s life came when she was just 15 years old. During a local festival called Umemo, the producers and scouters of Uzalo spotted her. They immediately recognized her as a raw talent that needed to be nurtured. That moment changed her life forever.

Nurturing Talent: Hlelo’s Journey to Stardom
The Uzalo team took Hlelo under their wing, teaching her the intricacies of acting and grooming her for the big screen. With their guidance and her natural talent, Hlelo blossomed into the star we know today. Her story is a testament to the fact that no matter where you come from, with a bit of luck and a lot of hard work, you can achieve greatness.

Conclusion
Hlelo’s journey from a poverty-stricken childhood to becoming a star on one of South Africa’s most popular soap operas is nothing short of inspirational. It serves as a reminder that opportunities can arise when we least expect them, and with the right support, even the most unlikely individuals can rise to the top.

The South African entertainment scene is abuzz with anticipation and rumors surrounding Linda Sebezo, the seasoned actress celebrated for her portrayal of Rebecca Mabuza in the hit eTV telenovela Isitha: The Enemy. With a career spanning more than forty years, Sebezo has established herself as a cherished figure in the industry, captivating audiences with her versatility and depth in a variety of roles.

 

 

 

 
Current Developments in Isitha: The Enemy

Recent episodes of Isitha: The Enemy have sparked conversations among fans, especially after the release of August’s teasers, which allude to significant developments for Rebecca and the Mabuza family. The teaser for August 27 states, “Rebecca is hit by the reality of her health,” hinting at a dramatic and possibly life-changing storyline. Following this, the teaser for August 28 hints at a pivotal moment: “The Mabuza household watches Reb’s will and are stunned by what she left for each of them.” These teasers have fueled speculation about Rebecca Mabuza’s fate and whether this could mark Linda Sebezo’s exit from the show.

However, reliable sources close to the production have confirmed that Linda Sebezo is not leaving Isitha: The Enemy. The confusion surrounding her character’s health and the intense storyline is a calculated plot twist aimed at keeping viewers hooked. The storyline is crafted to ensure fans remain captivated as they explore the implications of these developments.

A Journey Through Linda Sebezo’s Career

Linda Sebezo, occasionally credited as Linda Sebenzo, has become a household name in South Africa. She launched her career in 1980 with Gibson Kente Productions, and over the years, she has made a significant impact across various platforms, including television, stage, and directing.

She first gained widespread recognition for her unforgettable role as Koko, the endearing senile grandmother in the SABC1 sitcom Gauteng Maboneng. Throughout her distinguished career, Sebezo has appeared in numerous television shows, including Generations, Isidingo, Muvhango, and Soul Buddyz. Her dynamic talent as an actress has allowed her to effortlessly transition between dramatic and comedic roles, demonstrating her wide-ranging abilities.

Beyond acting, Sebezo has made noteworthy contributions to the theater world. She directed two of Gibson Kente’s plays, The Call and Mfowethu, in 2009, and has worked with emerging artists to help them hone their skills as dancers, singers, and actors.

Legacy and Impact

With a career as rich and varied as hers, Linda Sebezo’s influence on the South African entertainment industry is profound. Her roles have not only entertained but also resonated with audiences, reflecting societal themes and challenges. As she continues her journey in Isitha: The Enemy, fans can anticipate the unfolding of Rebecca Mabuza’s storyline and the lasting impact it will have.

31-year-old Gospel singer Pastor Motshidisi Monareng, well-known as Tshidi Monareng, said she has faced many challenges.

 
The singer, who is based in Mpumalanga, mentioned that she experienced rejection, with some people telling her she didn’t have a calling to sing and that she was forcing herself into music.She also said people told her the stage didn’t suit her.

Tshidi, from Rustenburg, North West, said she was inspired by powerful gospel artists like Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Joyous Celebration, and Bishop Benjamin Dube.She recorded her debut 14-track album, Ke Morena Jeso, in 2009.

“In 2017, I tried to do a live recording. Unfortunately, things didnt go as planned. I ended up having depression and nearly took my life. At the time, my biggest challenge was losing my mum, Gladys Moetsi (64), on 29 January 2017,” Tshidi said.

“She was suffering from high-blood pressure. Despite, the difficult times, I didn’t stop praying.”

She said the reason she’s singing is because of the love of God.

“I don’t want to be selfish and keep my gift of singing within me. I want to heal broken hearts and give hope to the hopeless.”

The singer said she won’t be changed by situations, environment, and money.

Her advice to other gospel singers is: Don’t fall into sin through entertainment, drinking alcohol, and taking drugs.

Tshidi said gospel singers should be good examples in the community.

“My strength is that I love people and fear God.”

On 23 February 2024, she released her single track, called Ngilinde.

She’s busy in the studio working on another album to be released soon.

Tshidi is married to Apostle Deddy Monareng, who co-founded the Faith Restoration Fire Ministry.

In 2019, she released the album, Restoration with 14 songs.

Pastor Monareng is also a businesswoman and a Setswana News reader at Moutse Community Radio Station under Sekhukhune District in Limpopo.

He has been on our screens for more than twenty years, it’s no longer just about appearing on TV. It has become about answering his calling, showing up, doing what he loves while finding healing in the process.

He has played many roles before becoming the villain that everybody loves to hate – Jack Mabaso on SABC 1’s soapie Generation: The Legacy.

Jack has a ruthless, and charismatic charm that often draws viewers in, making him both dis-likable and likable at the same time. Jack Mabaso embodies the archetype of the ‘villain we love to hate’.

Renowned actor and one of Mzansi’s prolific actors, Vusi Kunene, is back on the soapie.

 

 

 

 

Speaking to Drum, he says he is happy to be back playing the most hated man in Mzansi. He says this character stuck with him even though he has played so many roles while he was not on the show. Extra’s who used to work with him on the show still call him ‘Jack’.

Read more | Actor Mothusi Magano emphasises that he embodies various facets

“I am happy to be back. It felt like I never left; It is the same feeling one gets when they return home. I also love the way that the people have welcomed me back on the show when they heard that I was coming back.”

He says Jack comes back to pick up where he left off, as the owner of a powerful company and a notorious figure in the underground world. Jack Mabaso’s motivations are primarily driven by a desire for power and control.

“Jack has always been a villain but he has a soft spot for his family and always takes care of the people he holds dearly in his heart. He comes back with different sides always confusing his enemies, he becomes what he needs to at the time that benefits him.”

Jack’s interactions with other characters often heighten the drama. He is a master plotter, forming alliances that serve his interests then betraying them when they no longer benefit him. These tangled relationships are filled with tension and unpredictability, leading to explosive confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

“I enjoy playing this role because it challenges me and has changed the way I approach any script as a performer. There was a time when I played a good guy, and I just mentioned in passing to my agent that one of my wishes was to play a heartless villain that everyone hates. Shortly after that, I received a call, and my agent informed me that I got a role that I always wanted, they want me at Generations to play Jack Mabaso.”

This role started as a small, however after two attempts they were convinced by his performance, and this became a recurring role because they loved him.

“Acting for this long gives me a platform to keep that burning fire within blazing. It also allows me to learn things I never thought I would learn and get to feel different emotions that are evoked by the world of the character you are playing at the time. You open yourself up to a lot of things some of them are scary, but it is the same as the journey of life. Every role has its hurdles but knowing that there are people who can relate and learn from you is soothing.”

South African DJ Black Coffee has had a star-studded encounter in Ibiza, meeting Hollywood legend Will Smith.

The meeting, captured in a series of Instagram photos, has set the entertainment world abuzz.

BLACK COFFEE AND WILL SMITH
Black Coffee, whose real name is Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo, expressed his excitement on social media.

 

He described meeting Will Smith as a “big honour” and praised the actor for being “so inspiring.”

Will Smith has been soaking up the vibrant music scene of Ibiza. Ibiza is a popular Spanish island in the Mediterranean, according to Scrolla Africa.

BLACK COFFEE AND WILL SMITH POTENTIAL COLLABORATION
Rumours are swirling that he might be working on new music. His encounter with Black Coffee has sparked speculation about a potential collaboration.

Fans are already dreaming of a joint project between the South African DJ and the four-time Grammy winner, according to IOL.

Black Coffee has previously teamed up with music giants like Drake, David Guetta, and Usher. A partnership with Smith would be a thrilling addition to his impressive resume.

WILL SMITH’S CAREER
Will Smith is an acclaimed American actor, producer, and musician renowned for his versatile talent and charismatic presence.

He first gained fame as a rapper under the name Fresh Prince. Later, he transitioned to television with the hit show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Smith’s acting career soared with blockbuster films such as Men in Black, Independence Day, and The Pursuit of Happyness.

CAPTIVATING AUDIENCES
Over the years, he has received multiple awards, including four Grammys and two Academy Award nominations.

Smith continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic roles and ongoing work in the entertainment industry.

BLACK COFFEE’S TOUR
Currently, Black Coffee is on a summer tour that includes stops in Ibiza, Barcelona, and Mykonos, according toAfter a brief hiatus earlier this year due to a plane accident, he has returned to the stage with renewed energy.

His Hi Ibiza Saturdays residency, which began in May, continues to draw crowds until October.

Known for his innovative sound and energetic performances, Black Coffee has garnered multiple awards and accolades, including a Grammy nomination.

GLOBAL ICONS
His influence extends beyond music, with his Hi Ibiza Saturdays residency and a busy summer tour showcasing his continued impact on the international music scene.

The meeting of these two global icons not only highlights Black Coffee’s rising international profile but also underscores his role in representing South African talent on the world stage.

As he continues to tour and perform, fans will be watching closely for any hints of a future collaboration with Will Smith.

Beauty queen and actress Lethabo Mekoa is celebrating her Royalty Soapie Award for her Skeem Saam character of Ntswaki.

LETHABO MEKOA WINS AWARD FOR ‘SKEEM SAAM’ ROLE
The award-winning actress Lethabo Mekoa took to her social media to reveal that she is beyond grateful to be recognised.

She also shares that this moment is a testament to the hard work that has driven her every single day.

“To my family, friends, and fans, thank you for believing in me and supporting my dreams. This award is not just mine; it is ours,” she says on social media.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Every audition, every late-night rehearsal, every moment of doubt, has led me to this incredible achievement. But this is just the beginning.”

“I am excited to continue sharing my story, my growth, and my art with all of you. Here is to many more milestones, learning experiences, and celebrations.”

“The journey ahead is long, but I am ready for it with all of you by my side.”

The awards took place on Saturday, 24 August at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria.OTHER ROYALTY SOAPIE AWARD WINNERS
Outstanding supporting actor – Crispen Nyathi as Charleston in DiepCity
Outstanding supporting actress – Harriet Manamela as Meikie in Skeem Saam

Outstanding male villain – Mduduzi Mabaso as Mgedeza in DiepCity
Outstanding female villain – Deli Malinga as Mamzobe in Umkokha: The Curse
Outstanding couple – Lerato Mvelase as Dumisani Mbebe as Noxolo Nobengela and Melisizwe Nobengela in The Estate
Outstanding newcomer – Nefisa Mkhabela as Ona in House of Zwide
Outstanding young performer – Karabo Magongwa as Keletso in House of Zwide
Outstanding lead actor – Motlatsi Mafatshe as Molefe in House of Zwide
Outstanding lead actress – Zikhona Sodlaka as Bulelwa Mxenge in Gqeberha: The Empire
Outstanding daily TV drama – The River
Most watched show – Uzalo
Viewer’s choice best actor – Mahlatse Moropo as Letetswe in Skeem Saam
Viewer’s choice best actress – LethaboMekoa as Ntswaki in Skeem Saam

Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder Neo Maema is making headlines after he tied the knot with his partner Tsholofelo Phoko.

The star has undoubtedly managed to keep his private life under wraps, leaving many to guess. However, despite keeping his private life under wraps, his love life often thrust him into top trends.

 

 

 
ATTACKING MIDFIELDER, NEO MAEMA TIES THE KNOT
Over the years, he has become a fan favourite and often trends whenever he posts or gets posted. Social media was abuzz after news of Neo Maema’s traditional wedding went viral.

Against the news, photos from his traditional wedding have been making rounds online. Celebrity blog MDN News first shared the news on X, formerly Twitter.The celebrity blog posted, “Mamelodi Sundowns star Neo Maema recently tied the knot with his wife.”

However, several social media handles have confirmed the news. Soccerzela also posted on Facebook, “Mamelodi Sundowns star, Neo Maema, is now a married man.”

Rumour has it that the two have been in a long-term relationship. Neo Maema and Tsholofela were all smiles in the viral photos.

They were dressed in sleek, traditional attire. The two are seen with all smiles during the traditional wedding.

Against the now-viral photos, fans have since flooded social media with congratulatory comments. The photos have gained thousands of comments and reactions since they dropped online.

An X user commented, “Let’s hope they remain together after soccer lights have switched off. Sports people generally struggle to sustain relationships after they retire.”

Another user added, “Boy is focused. Congratulations to the Maema family.” Popular X user @leko__shoba posted, “Congratulations, Neo Maema.”

RECENT STARS WHO TIED THE KNOTNeo Maema joins a host of footballers who recently tied the knot, including Kaizer Chiefs star Sphiwe Msimango.

Last month, the Kaizer Chiefs star took to social media to reveal he was off the market. He shared a series of photos from his traditional wedding.

The Kaizer Chiefs star captioned one of his posts, “01-06-2024—a promise kept. Our love story is one of unwavering devotion. You have shown me the purest form of love, a love that inspires me to be the best version of myself.

“And I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful love story to be a part of. Thank you for being my soft landing, my safe haven and my partner in every sense of the word. Here’s to a lifetime of love, my FOREVER.”

Miss South Africa 2020 runner-up and Miss Supranational SA 2021 Thato Mosehle and her husband are expecting a baby together.

THATO MOSEHLE ANNOUNCES PREGNANCY
Beauty queen and medical doctor Thato Mosehle, who was the Miss SA 2020 runner-up and represented South Africa at Miss Supranational in 2021, announced that she is pregnant. She was crowned the second-runner up at the Miss Supranational pageant in 2021.

 

 

 

 

Thato shared photos of herself, along with her husband Frans Maruma at Nakupenda Island in Zanzibar.

She is seen sporting a beautiful baby bump. Take a look…

“Sooo… A BEAUTIFUL BLESSING is on the way 🥹❤️🤰!!! We thank God and are extremely happy for this new journey He has trusted us with!!!” she wrote.

Former Miss SA titleholders took to the comments section to show Thato some love.

“Congratulations beautiful! ♥️,” wrote reigning Miss SA Mia le Roux.

“😍😍😍 omgosh!!! Yaaaay!!!! Congratulations 🥹,” wrote Miss SA 2018 Tamaryn Green, who also announced her pregnancy recently.

“Congratulations beautiful 🤍,” wrote Miss SA 2015.

Thato also had a “baby brunch” as seen in an Instagram post. Take a look…

“My homecell sisters threw me a surprise baby shower yesterday🥹❤️. It was the most beautiful quality time spent! My baby is so blessed to have these women of God as aunties🥰🥰. This is just a glimpse of the support and love that they’ve given me throughout the year. Wednesday after Wednesday we show up for one another, sharing the word of God and strengthening each other in prayer and worship,” she wrote.

THE PARENTS-TO-BE
Thato announced her engagement in November 2021. At the time, she did not reveal the identity of her fiancé but revealed that she said “yes” to the “one whom her soul loves”. The engagement took place at Inanda Dam in KwaZulu-Natal.

In 2022, the pair tied the knot in a traditional wedding.

“My dad and I only practicing the step when it’s time to walk in. He’s turning down my cool suggestions????. I love him so much. Also I felt amazing in my dress made for me by @tshepangmotete ???????? thank you friend????,” she wrote.

Controversial South African artist Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, known in the music world as Shebeshxt, has recently paid a moving tribute to his late daughter, Onthatile Gladys. The young girl tragically lost her life a few months ago in a devastating car accident, leaving Shebeshxt and his family in deep mourning.

 

 

 

 
Shebeshxt Honors Late Daughter with Tribute Tattoo
The Heartbreaking Accident
The tragic incident occurred when Shebeshxt was driving his white car with Onthatile and his girlfriend as passengers. The vehicle was involved in a collision with a truck, which resulted in the untimely death of his beloved daughter. Shebeshxt himself was injured in the accident and had to be hospitalized for treatment.

A Permanent Tribute: The Onthatile Tattoo
In a poignant and emotional gesture to honor the memory of his daughter, Shebeshxt has decided to keep her close to him forever by getting a tattoo of Onthatile’s face on his leg. The tattoo, a powerful symbol of his grief and love, was recently shared on social media.

Social Media Reaction to Shebeshxt’s Tribute
A photo of the tattoo was posted on Twitter by a parody account, alongside a touching caption that read: “I miss you every second of my life. Until We Meet Again My Love. Onthatile Gladys My Daughter.” The tribute quickly garnered significant attention, with fans and followers of Shebeshxt expressing their deep condolences and offering words of comfort.

Public Support and Encouragement
The emotional tribute has resonated with many, with fans praising Shebeshxt for the heartfelt gesture. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, as well as encouragement for Shebeshxt to find a new path and live a better life in the aftermath of this tragic loss.

The Impact of Onthatile’s Passing
This tribute serves as a reflection of Shebeshxt’s ongoing struggle with grief, as he seeks to keep the memory of his daughter alive. The outpouring of public support highlights the profound impact Onthatile’s death has had not only on her family but also on the wider community.

A Symbol of Enduring Love
As Shebeshxt continues to navigate this challenging period of his life, the tattoo stands as a permanent reminder of his daughter’s presence. It is a symbol of his enduring love, ensuring that Onthatile Gladys will forever remain a part of him.

Former Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina has been mocked on social media for “downgrading” her quest for the crown to the Miss Universe Nigeria competition.

This follows behind-the-scenes images of pageant week that have gone viral on social media.

A new queen will be crowned on Saturday, 31 August, at the Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos. The winner will represent the country at the Miss Universe pageant in November in Mexico.

 

 

 

 

HAS CHIDIMMA ‘DOWNGRADED’ BY COMPETING AT MISS UNIVERSE NIGERIA?
On the X platform, social media users have been posting side-by-side comparisons of the Miss SA pageant – won by Mia Le Roux earlier this month – and the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant.

This follows Chidimma’s decision to drop out of the local pageant in favour of one promoting her “father’s homeland.” The 23-year-old’s parents – a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother – are currently under investigation by the Department of Home Affairs amid allegations they fraudulently registered her birth in South Africa.

In the viral images, many believe Chidimma “downgraded” to the Nigerian pageant after dropping out of the prestigious Miss SA contest.

@Fit_Mandisa: “What a downgrade. Chidimma went to a high school beauty contest in a village.”

@Ona1718501: “I am sure Chidimma regrets being there. This is a downgrade.”

@ApheleleJody: “During Miss SA’s preparations/rehearsals, they were drinking BNG and Mofaya. What are they drinking in Miss Universe Nigeria? Tap water?”

Others, like TV commentator Phil Mphela, have criticised Chidimma for being obligated to promote a skin-bleaching brand, which is a major sponsor of the Miss Universe Nigeria.

“Weh, Chichi. Is all this worth it, mara?” he tweeted.

‘STILL PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN’
Despite competing at the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, Chidimma Adetshina has told the public that she is still “proudly South African.”

Speaking in a radio interview with Rhythm 93.7FM Nigeria, she said of the “adversity” of being under public scrutiny over her parentage: “My name has brought a lot of awareness into this. But I don’t want it to come in a negative way. Because as much as I am still fighting for my identity, I am still proudly South African, and I am still proudly Nigerian. And it’s really OK to be diverse.

“I want people to see that good side but also for us to start acknowledging it and accepting it.”

Chidimma added that her mission was to promote inclusion and diversity.

She continued: “I will make a powerful impact. There are a lot of people who are just as diverse as I am and I don’t want us to live in a society or community where we are excluded because of the diverse backgrounds we have. I want us to be included, celebrated, appreciated, loved, and accepted.

“Me just being here, I am not only representing myself, but I am representing a lot of people who see themselves in me and are diverse in their culture.”