In the world of celebrity relationships, love and loyalty often face the test of fame, fortune, and temptation. While some couples stick together through thick and thin, others decide to part ways and pursue new, often high-profile relationships with even more famous or wealthier lovers. Whether it’s the allure of fame, money, or simply a desire for something different, these South African celebrities have swapped their old partners for someone who brought a different kind of excitement or status to their lives.

Here’s a look at 5 Mzansi celebrities who made headlines for leaving their partners and moving on to famous or rich lovers, and how their relationships have played out in the public eye.

1. DJ Fresh & Mapaseka Koetle

The Breakup and New Beginnings

The DJ Fresh and Mapaseka Koetle relationship was one that captured the attention of many, especially in the entertainment industry. DJ Fresh, one of South Africa’s top radio DJs and an influential media personality, and Mapaseka Koetle, the famous actress known for her role in Scandal!, had been in a long-term relationship before they called it quits in 2023.

While their breakup was reportedly amicable, what caught fans by surprise was DJ Fresh’s quick shift to a new relationship with Thabiso Sikwale, a high-profile woman in the entertainment industry. The public nature of his relationship with Thabiso contrasted with the more private life he led with Mapaseka, who had always been more reserved.

This quick transition from one partner to another left many speculating that DJ Fresh may have been drawn to Thabiso’s own rise in fame, as she had a successful career in the media and entertainment scene, much like him. Meanwhile, Mapaseka continued to thrive in her career and moved on privately, focusing on her acting and entrepreneurial ventures.

The switch in relationships highlighted how fame and the allure of moving to someone with a larger social or economic standing can sometimes influence decisions in relationships.

2. DJ Black Coffee & Victoria Gonzalez

From Heartbreak to a Global Romance

DJ Black Coffee, one of South Africa’s most internationally recognized musicians and producers, made waves when he ended his marriage to Mbali Mlotshwa and began a new relationship with Victoria Gonzalez, a global model and entrepreneur. Black Coffee’s split with Mbali, a respected South African TV personality, came as a shock to many, especially after the couple had been together for several years and had children.

It wasn’t long before Black Coffee was seen with Victoria Gonzalez, a woman who had already made a name for herself in the fashion industry and was known for her high-profile connections. Their relationship quickly gained attention due to their high social status, and Black Coffee’s new love was celebrated by some fans and scrutinized by others.

While some felt the divorce was a painful personal decision, Black Coffee’s relationship with Victoria showcased how sometimes a more glamorous partner can help elevate one’s social status or bring in new opportunities in the world of global entertainment. DJ Black Coffee’s move to a relationship with Victoria reflected a shift in both personal and professional realms, with the couple making headlines on international platforms.

3. Lebo M & Zoe Mthiyane

High Drama and a New Beginning

Lebo M, one of South Africa’s most successful composers and The Lion King producer, found himself in the spotlight when his relationship with Zoe Mthiyane, a popular actress and media personality, ended dramatically. Lebo M’s previous marriage to Angela Ngani-Casara ended in a public divorce, and it was soon after that he was linked to Zoe, who was also well-known in the entertainment scene.

Their relationship, which seemed passionate at the beginning, soon became one of the most talked-about in Mzansi due to the public breakup that followed. The reasons behind the end of their relationship were never fully confirmed, but speculation arose that Zoe’s growing fame and Lebo’s complex personal life may have contributed to the tension.

Zoe, who was relatively unknown before dating Lebo, experienced a surge in popularity during their time together, drawing attention from media outlets. Their high-profile romance highlighted how relationships between the famous can lead to mutually beneficial partnerships, where both partners gain social capital and wealth from their connection. After their split, both Zoe and Lebo continued to thrive in their respective careers, with Zoe becoming one of South Africa’s most sought-after actresses.

4. Lebo Phasha & T.K Nciza

A Musical Love Affair Gone Public

Lebo Phasha, a rising star in the South African music industry, and T.K Nciza, the well-known businessman and entertainment mogul, made headlines when their relationship started. Prior to being with T.K, Lebo was in a long-term relationship with another prominent figure in the entertainment scene, but their split came after she began a relationship with T.K, who was already well-established and wealthy.

Lebo’s relationship with T.K, which began soon after her breakup, was highly publicized due to his status in the music industry and his significant wealth. T.K, a respected figure in the world of business and entertainment, had a reputation for being one of the more affluent figures in Mzansi, and this new relationship with Lebo put her at the center of public attention.

For many, it seemed that Lebo’s move from her previous partner to T.K was driven by the promise of a more glamorous lifestyle and the allure of being associated with one of the country’s top businessmen. The couple quickly became the talk of the town, with their lavish lifestyle and public appearances constantly fueling rumors and speculations.

5. Andile Mpisana & Tamia Mpisana

Love at the Intersection of Fame and Fortune

Perhaps one of the most discussed couples in recent months, Andile Mpisana and Tamia Mpisana, made headlines when Andile left his previous partner for Tamia, a global model and influencer. Andile, the son of a well-known South African business mogul, and Tamia, who had a background in international modeling, represented a union of both fame and fortune.

While Andile had previously been in a relationship with another woman, his connection with Tamia seemed to take his life and career to new heights, adding an international flair to his public persona. Tamia, known for her high social standing, became an even bigger public figure after she and Andile became an item.

The couple’s lavish lifestyle—complete with luxury cars, private jets, and exclusive events—has led many to believe that Andile’s switch from his previous partner to Tamia was influenced by the allure of a wealthier, more globally connected partner. The move has sparked debates among fans, with some applauding the relationship for its aspirational appeal, while others speculate about the true nature of their romance.

Conclusion: Fame, Fortune, and the Allure of a New Love

The relationships of DJ Fresh & Mapaseka Koetle, DJ Black Coffee & Victoria Gonzalez, Lebo M & Zoe Mthiyane, Lebo Phasha & T.K Nciza, and Andile Mpisana & Tamia Mpisana reveal how celebrity culture and financial success can sometimes be the driving force behind personal decisions, including shifting romantic partnerships.

In a world where fame and fortune often collide with personal lives, these celebrities remind us that the pursuit of love can sometimes be influenced by the desire for status, wealth, or increased visibility. While some fans might view these transitions as shallow or opportunistic, others see them as a reflection of how people evolve and look for new connections that serve both personal and professional aspirations.

For these high-profile stars, love is not just about companionship but also about image, social influence, and the ability to navigate the complex dynamics of the entertainment industry. Celebrity breakups and new relationships are often more than just personal—they shape public narratives and can alter the trajectory of careers, proving that love and fame are intertwined in a world where status matters as much as affection.