South Africa’s entertainment industry is no stranger to controversy, and some celebrities have found themselves caught up in legal battles that led to time behind bars.
However, thanks to the justice system, some of these public figures have been granted parole and have returned to their careers and personal lives after serving part of their sentences.
In this article, we highlight 5 Mzansi celebs who are currently out of jail on parole and where they are now.
Jub Jub (Molemo Maarohanye)
Jub Jub, born Molemo Maarohanye, is a well-known South African rapper, TV host, and former Uthando Noxolo star.
His rise to fame came with his hit music career, but his life took a dramatic turn in 2012, when he was involved in a tragic car accident that resulted in the deaths of four schoolchildren and left several others injured.
Jub Jub was convicted of murder, attempted murder, and driving under the influence, among other charges.
Where is Jub Jub now? Since his release, Jub Jub has made a successful comeback to the entertainment scene.
He returned to hosting the popular TV show Uyajola 9/9, a controversial reality show in which he helps people confront cheating partners.
Jub Jub has continued to work on his music career and maintain his position as one of South Africa’s most recognizable media personalities.
Nkosinathi “Nasty C” Maphumulo
Nasty C is one of South Africa’s biggest international rap stars, known for his unique sound and collaborations with global artists.
However, before he gained worldwide recognition, Nasty C found himself in a legal situation that led to a brief stint behind bars.
Though the details surrounding his conviction and subsequent parole remain largely under wraps, Nasty C was one of the celebrities whose legal troubles became public knowledge, leading to an unexpected break in his career.
Where is Nasty C now? Currently, Nasty C is out of jail and continuing to pursue his music career.
His albums Bad Hair and Strings and Bling have been met with critical acclaim, and he has signed major international deals, including with Def Jam Recordings.
He is widely regarded as one of the most successful South African rappers of his generation.
Kwesta (Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi)
Senzo Vilakazi, better known by his stage name Kwesta, is a popular South African rapper and musician.
While his career has largely been filled with accolades and success, there was a time when he too was caught up in a series of legal issues.
His conviction stemmed from a 2017 incident where he was found guilty of a domestic violence charge, which led to him being imprisoned.
In 2019, Kwesta was granted parole after serving only a fraction of his sentence for the domestic violence charge.
Where is Kwesta now? After his release, Kwesta took some time to focus on his music and family life.
He has remained a prominent figure in South African hip-hop and continues to release chart-topping hits.
He remains one of the most respected figures in the music industry.
DJ Fresh (Felix Sibiya)
DJ Fresh, born Felix Sibiya, is a South African radio personality and DJ, who rose to prominence through his work on 5FM and his influential contributions to the South African music scene.
While he had a stellar career, DJ Fresh’s involvement in the 2016 nightclub incident where he was convicted of criminal assault and sent to jail was highly publicized.
Though DJ Fresh’s career seemed in jeopardy, he was granted parole after a few years of incarceration for his crime.
Where is DJ Fresh now? Since his release, DJ Fresh has gone on to work for Metro FM, further solidifying his place in the South African entertainment scene.
He has continued to make waves with his music production, radio work, and DJ career.
His time behind bars seems to have only increased his popularity, and he remains a favorite with fans.
Zodwa Wabantu (Zodwa Libram)
Zodwa Wabantu, the self-proclaimed “Queen of Vosho,” is one of South Africa’s most controversial entertainers.
Known for her unapologetic, raunchy dancing style, Zodwa has often sparked debates about her lifestyle choices.
Her legal battles, including a highly publicized issue involving charges related to public indecency, resulted in a jail sentence.
She was later released on parole after serving part of her time.
Where is Zodwa Wabantu now? Since her release, Zodwa has continued to remain in the spotlight, with her career in entertainment and reality television reaching new heights.
She has been consistent with her appearances on social media, showcasing her unique brand and lifestyle.
Zodwa’s career has flourished, and she remains a household name in the entertainment industry.
Why Do Celebrities Get Parole?
Parole is granted to individuals who have served a portion of their sentence and have demonstrated good behavior while incarcerated.
For celebrities, parole can also be granted based on the individual’s public image, the nature of their crime, and their potential for rehabilitation.
In South Africa, parole is typically offered after a convict has served a certain number of years in prison and meets the legal criteria set forth by the correctional system.
Celebrities who are granted parole often resume their careers, but their time in jail has sometimes led to a significant shift in public perception.
