In the world of South African entertainment, few events have sparked as much online debate and division as the recent public feud between Cassper Nyovest and the Open Chats podcast.
What began as a critical comment on a podcast in early July 2025 quickly escalated into a heated exchange that has captivated fans, critics, and influencers alike.
This ongoing conflict not only highlights tensions within the local music industry but also raises important questions about accountability, respect, and the pressures faced by artists in the digital age.
The drama ignited around July 2, 2025, when the Open Chats podcast aired an episode sharply criticizing Cassper Nyovest, one of South Africa’s biggest hip-hop stars.
The podcast host, known as MTO, labeled Cassper as “selfish” and accused him of only helping others when it benefits his own career.
This critique was tied to a specific incident involving content creator Sono, who reportedly experienced dismissive treatment when trying to collaborate with Cassper on a vlog.
During the episode, MTO expressed frustration with Cassper’s perceived attitude, saying, “Can I ask you one thing? What has Cassper done to genuinely help someone? Every time Cassper helps you, he’s benefiting.
” The podcast highlighted the notion that older or more established artists often use newer talent to stay relevant, implying that Cassper fits this pattern.
The clip quickly went viral on social media platforms like TikTok, where it sparked a flurry of reactions.
Some fans agreed with the criticism, with one commenter writing, “I’m a Cassper fan, but this young man is right,” earning thousands of likes.
Others called Cassper a “wannabe Drake” and suggested he tried to ride the wave of other artists like Nasty C without genuine originality.
Not surprisingly, the internet was split in its response.
While some supported the Open Chats podcast’s critique, others defended Cassper vehemently.
Many argued that artists are not obligated to help everyone and that success often requires a degree of self-focus and strategic thinking.
One defender wrote, “Name one successful artist or businessman or woman who is not selfish. It’s the business.”
Another criticized the podcast itself, calling it “hungry-looking” and accusing it of clout chasing by targeting a well-known figure like Cassper for views.
This division revealed a broader tension within the South African music community, where fans and insiders debate the balance between competition, collaboration, and mutual support.
Cassper Nyovest did not remain silent for long.
On July 4, 2025, during a Twitch live stream, he addressed the controversy with a calm yet assertive tone.
He acknowledged seeing the trending video and praised the podcast host for having a voice and influence, saying, “That kid, keep doing what you’re doing, man. Keep commenting.”
However, Cassper also took a dismissive stance toward the podcast, referring to the hosts as “young boys” and asserting his established position in the music industry.
“When you say Cassper on your podcast, you definitely know you’re going to get views,” he remarked, implying that the criticism was motivated by jealousy or a desire for attention.
His response, while measured, did not satisfy all observers.
Many social media users felt that Cassper’s remarks only reinforced the podcast’s points.
Comments like “The more Cassper speaks, the more he’s proving that he is right” and “A 40-year-old streamer clearly throwing shade” gained traction, highlighting a perception that Cassper’s defense was weak or tone-deaf.
The feud intensified when, on July 7, 2025, MTO returned with a passionate response on a subsequent episode of Open Chats.
He doubled down on his accusations, calling Cassper “narcissistic,” “selfish,” and “a taker.
” MTO questioned why so many people had issues with Cassper and suggested that the common denominator was the artist himself.
“I’ve given Cassper his flowers so many times,” MTO said.
“But the one time I say I think you’re selfish, he attacks me.”
He criticized Cassper’s defensive reaction, mocking the argument that wealth justifies selfishness: “At least I’m rich, that’s the only argument he can say.”
This rebuttal received strong support from listeners, many of whom praised MTO for speaking out and called the episode “Podcast of the year.”
Comments flooded in, applauding MTO’s courage and professionalism, with some calling for unity among artists and influencers to improve the industry.
As the feud played out in public, numerous influencers and commentators shared their perspectives, further fueling the discussion.
Some criticized Cassper for engaging in a public spat with a much younger podcast, suggesting it was beneath his stature.
One YouTuber remarked, “How the mighty have fallen,” lamenting that a respected artist like Cassper was embroiled in drama with a podcast team.
Conversely, other voices defended Cassper, accusing the podcast of clout chasing and disrespect.
On Twitter, many fans labeled Open Chats as “cloud chasers” and dismissed the feud as an attempt to gain relevance by targeting a high-profile figure.
This polarization underscored the complex dynamics of fame and criticism in the social media era, where every comment and reaction can quickly become a viral spectacle.
Beyond the personal drama, the Cassper Nyovest and Open Chats feud shines a light on several broader issues within South Africa’s music scene:
1. Accountability vs. Respect: The conflict raises questions about how artists should be held accountable for their behavior. While critique is essential for growth, the line between constructive criticism and personal attacks can be blurry.
2. Generational Divide: The feud reflects tensions between established artists and younger voices in the industry. Younger creators like MTO represent a new wave of commentators willing to challenge icons, signaling a shift in power dynamics.
3. The Role of Social Media: Platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and Twitter have amplified conflicts, making them public spectacles that can escalate quickly. This environment pressures artists to respond or risk losing control of their narrative.
4. The Business of Music: The debate over selfishness highlights the competitive nature of the industry, where success often requires strategic self-interest. Balancing collaboration with personal ambition remains a delicate act.
As of now, the feud shows no signs of abating.
Both sides continue to engage their audiences, with fans eagerly awaiting the next development.
For Cassper Nyovest, this episode may serve as a moment of reflection on how to manage criticism and public image in a fast-paced digital world.
For Open Chats, the controversy has undoubtedly raised their profile, but it also brings responsibility to navigate the fine line between critique and respect.
The Cassper Nyovest and Open Chats podcast feud has become one of the most talked-about controversies in South African entertainment in 2025.
It has divided fans, sparked heated debates, and highlighted the challenges artists face in balancing fame, criticism, and authenticity.
Whether you side with Cassper or support the podcast’s calls for accountability, this saga reminds us that behind the glitz and glamour of the music industry lie complex human stories of ambition, rivalry, and the quest for respect.
As this story unfolds, one thing is clear: in today’s digital age, no artist is immune from scrutiny, and every voice—whether established or emerging—can shape the narrative.
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