Cancel culture, a phenomenon where public figures face boycotts or ostracism due to controversial actions or statements, has left an indelible mark on South African celebrity life.
The spotlight that fame brings can quickly turn into a glaring critique, leaving careers and personal lives in ruins.
Among Mzansi’s stars, there are numerous tales of celebrities whose public image crumbled after being “cancelled,” resulting in significant professional and personal setbacks.
Here are ten stories of Mzansi celebrities who faced the wrath of cancel culture and the enduring consequences.
Kelly Khumalo stands out as a prominent figure in South African entertainment, but her career has not been without its controversies.
In August 2023, she faced a significant backlash linked to the ongoing trial surrounding the murder of her former partner, soccer star Senzo Meyiwa.
A cellphone analyst revealed evidence suggesting Khumalo might have been in contact with one of the accused individuals just days before Meyiwa’s tragic death in 2014.
Although she denied involvement, the public reaction was swift, with event organizers dropping her from several performances.
Boity Thulo, an actress, television host, and entrepreneur, experienced her own cancellation saga in 2021 following a violent altercation at a nightclub.
She accused presenter Bujy Bikwa of assaulting her to the point of injury, with the incident making rounds on social media.
Graphic images and videos fueled outrage, leading to Bujy’s arrest. However, the scandal also impacted Boity’s life; the heated reactions and online discourse damaged her brand, leading to a loss of endorsement deals and TV hosting opportunities.
The fallout forced her to downscale her lifestyle, and she openly discussed battling depression in the wake of the incident. The situation highlighted how even victims of violence can face public criticism and financial hardship after going public with their experiences.
Babes Wodumo, the queen of Gqom music, became embroiled in controversy due to her tumultuous relationship with fellow musician Mampintsha. Their rocky partnership turned abusive, with Babes livestreaming an incident where Mampintsha was seen assaulting her.
The couple reconciled after the charges were dropped, which angered many fans who felt betrayed by the turn of events.
The public’s discontent spilled over into Babes’ music career, with fans withdrawing their support and brands distancing themselves from her.
The backlash demonstrated the challenges women face when navigating complex abusive relationships in the public eye, especially when public opinion conflicts with personal decisions.
Lady Zamar, a celebrated singer, found herself at the center of a heated debate after she accused her former partner, musician Sjava, of sexual assault.
The allegations, made in 2019, led to a divided public opinion. While many supported her for speaking out, others cyberbullied her, accusing her of fabricating the story.
The backlash affected her career, with social media users labeling her as “difficult” and undermining her professional opportunities. Years later, Lady Zamar expressed the emotional toll of the cancel culture she faced, questioning why the public was so quick to vilify her despite the courage it took to share her story.
Comedian Mongezi “Tol Ass Mo” Mahlangu also endured the harsh effects of cancel culture after being accused of sexual assault by model Lerato Moloi.
The allegations stemmed from an incident during the filming of a reality TV cooking competition in 2014. Although Mahlangu maintained his innocence, the accusations led to his ostracism within the entertainment industry and his family being treated as outcasts in their neighborhood.
The case had long-lasting repercussions, forcing him to relocate and seek psychological counseling to deal with the emotional trauma. The incident exemplified how public accusations, even if unproven, can have life-altering consequences.
Noni Gasa, a trailblazer in South African media and fashion, experienced a dramatic fall from grace long before cancel culture became a widely recognized term.
In 2011, she made headlines for an infamous Twitter meltdown in which she referred to herself as “God” and boasted about her wealth.
The backlash was immediate, with fans and critics labeling her arrogant and out of touch. As a result, she lost endorsement deals and was effectively blacklisted from the industry.
Her story serves as an early example of how social media missteps can lead to professional ruin, even for those at the height of their careers.
Actress Zola Nombona faced cancellation after a series of public incidents damaged her reputation. Her career suffered a major blow in 2020 when rumors of unprofessional behavior on the set of Generations: The Legacy emerged.
She was accused of arriving on set intoxicated, which she later claimed was part of a smear campaign linked to a behind-the-scenes love triangle.
Additionally, her 2019 arrest for drunk driving added fuel to the fire. These controversies culminated in her being blacklisted by the industry, leaving her struggling to rebuild her reputation and career.
Zandile Khumalo, Kelly Khumalo’s sister, also faced public backlash related to the Senzo Meyiwa case. As one of the individuals present at the house during the soccer star’s fatal shooting, Zandile’s involvement drew skepticism and criticism.
Her emotional testimony during the trial was met with mixed reactions, with some accusing her of attempting to manipulate public sentiment.
Social media campaigns calling for her cancellation further strained her music career, demonstrating how personal tragedies can spill over into professional lives in unpredictable and damaging ways.
Fed Joe, a beloved radio personality, became a target of cancel culture after making homophobic remarks during a broadcast.
The backlash was immediate, with social media users and LGBTQIA+ advocates demanding accountability.
Fed Joe was suspended from Radio 2000, and the fallout extended to his personal life as he faced financial difficulties, including eviction from his home.
The incident highlighted the high stakes of public platforms and the necessity of sensitivity when addressing diverse audiences.
Lastly, Katlego Maboe, a TV personality and singer, faced cancellation after a video of him confessing to infidelity went viral.
His admission led to allegations of abuse from his ex-partner, which compounded the scandal. Although he denied the allegations of violence, the controversy cost him lucrative brand endorsements and television appearances.
The incident not only tarnished his public image but also sparked debates about accountability and redemption in the age of cancel culture.
The stories of these ten celebrities illustrate the devastating effects of cancel culture on both personal and professional levels. For many, the fallout is not just a temporary setback but a life-altering event that reshapes their careers, relationships, and mental health.
While cancel culture is often driven by a desire for accountability, it also raises questions about fairness, redemption, and the permanence of public judgment.
These tales serve as a cautionary reminder of the power of public opinion and the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between authenticity and responsibility.
In an era where social media amplifies every misstep, the line between public accountability and undue punishment continues to blur, leaving a lasting impact on those caught in its wake.
