Racism row, Minnie's R2. 5m lawsuit and DJ Zinhle's comeback: SA celebs made headlines this week

IOL News

17 hours ago

The hosts of 'Open Chat Podcasts' have found themselves in hot water over derogatory comments on the coloured community.
Image: Facebook
This week in the world of fame has been a whirlwind, marked by a racism uproar, chart-topping releases, and courtroom drama. Amidst it all, rising stars gained recognition, and there were a few heart-warming moments.
1. "Open Chats Podcast" hosts faced backlash over racist comments
The racist comments made on the podcast have ignited widespread outrage. The remarks, which perpetuate harmful stereotypes and offensive generalisations about coloured people, sparked a backlash across social media and prompted a strong reaction from the likes of well-known comedian Marc Lottering, among others.
"As someone who is mentally slow and who sleeps with his cousins, I've actually done rather well for myself. And nogal without hosting a podcast. Shem," posted Lottering. His sarcastic remark highlighted the absurdity of the stereotypes being perpetuated and the ignorance behind such comments.
Meanwhile, singer Honeshma Margarido publicly apologised, saying: "During my guest appearance on 'Open Chats Podcast', I made an offensive and harmful generalisation by saying that the coloured men I dated were 'crazy mentally' and I deeply regret that statement.'
Minnie Dlamini has taken legal action against MacG, seeking R2.5 million in damages for hate speech and harassment after he made offensive remarks about her.
Image: Instagram
2. Minnie Dlamini takes MacG to court
TV presenter and producer Minnie Dlamini has taken 'Podcast and Chill' hosts MacG and Sol Phenduka to the Equality Court, seeking R2.5 million in damages.
The case relates to offensive remarks made by MacG about Dlamini's past relationship, which she alleges amounted to hate speech, gender-based harassment and unfair discrimination.
The claim includes R1 million for damages to her dignity and R1.5 million to be donated to a women's organisation.
According to court papers, Dlamini rejected MacG's apology, choosing instead to pursue legal accountability.
"Big Brother Mzansi" season four star and musician Liyema Pantsi won two awards at the Basadi in Music Awards.
Image: Instagram/liyema_pantsi
3. Women in music celebrated at Basadi in Music Awards
The Basadi in Music Awards returned for its fourth year, honouring women making waves in the industry.
The ceremony took place over two nights at the Joburg Theatre, recognising talent across various categories.
Among the big winners were Nomuzi 'Moozlie' Mabena, who took home Best Styled Artist of the Year, 'Big Brother Mzansi' star Liyema Pantsi, who walked away with two awards, including Collaboration of the Year and Amapiano powerhouse Babalwa M, who won Amapiano Artist of the Year.
Limpopo's Kharishma, who claimed Music Video of the Year, capped the event with a vibrant performance.
For those who didn't attend the live event, the two-night award show is set to broadcast on SABC2 on August 9, at 6.30pm, starting with the green carpet, followed by the Vanguard Awards on Sunday, August 10, at 8.30pm.
DJ Zinhle makes a triumphant return with the release of her highly anticipated album, "Zee Nation Volume 1", just in time for her upcoming Zee Nation Fest.
Image: Instagram
4. DJ Zinhle ushers in a new era with "Zee Nation Volume 1"
DJ Zinhle has released her long-awaited new album, 'Zee Nation Volume 1', just ahead of the second instalment of her Zee Nation Fest.
The multi-award-winning DJ's last full album dropped in 2009, with her staying in the spotlight through hit singles and collaborations since then.
The album cover, featuring a collage of her fans' pictures, is a heartfelt tribute to her loyal 'Besties'. With the music festival approaching, DJ Zinhle is focused on curating another standout experience for her community of supporters.
South African artists Jazzworx and G.L. Ceejay were kidnapped during a home invasion.
Image: X
5. Jazzworx & GL Ceejay rescued after kidnapping ordeal
Jazzworx and GL Ceejay were victims of a kidnapping following a home invasion, during which studio equipment was also stolen.
The artists, known for songs such as 'Bengicela' and 'Uzizwa Kanjan', have since expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their rescue.
The duo released a joint statement thanking those involved and asked for privacy as they recover.
Their collaborator, Thukuthela, shared the incident on social media, revealing that the suspects had targeted their studio assets specifically.
Samthing Soweto says he might skip releasing visuals for his new album "Touch is a Move (Good Morning)" because he is "camera-shy."
Image: Samthing Soweto Instagram
6. Samthing Soweto may skip the visuals for 'Touch is a Move (Good Morning)'
Samthing Soweto surprised fans by revealing he may forgo music videos for his latest album, "Touch is a Move (Good Morning)", citing camera shyness.
The singer shared the message on Instagram, sparking both support and calls for reconsideration from fans.
The 17-track album, his first in five years, is a reflective and layered body of work exploring themes such as childhood, resilience and ritual.
Inspired by the metaphor of childhood games, the album invites listeners to reflect on growth and commitment in everyday life.
Jack Blues Bieber made his first ever cameo after appearing on a music video alongside his mom, Hailey and dad, Justin.
Image: X
7. Jack Blues Bieber steals the show in "Yukon"
Justin Bieber gave fans a rare look into his family life in the new black-and-white music video for 'Yukon', which features his 11-month-old son, Jack Blues.
While the baby's face remains hidden per the couple's wishes, the glimpses of father-son bonding moments melted fans hearts.
'Yukon' is Bieber's third song on his surprise album 'SWAG', which he released in July. It delves into the themes of relationship troubles.
Beyoncé has ignited excitement among fans with her latest Levi's campaign, hinting at the much-anticipated "Act III" of her album trilogy.
Image: X
8. Is Beyoncé teasing Act III? The Beyhive thinks so
Beyoncé has released a new campaign with Levi's titled 'Chapter 4: The Denim Cowboy', which has ignited fan speculation about the third act of her album trilogy.
The visual shot features the singer in denim-heavy western looks before transitioning into a glam-rock aesthetic.
The ad's visual storytelling, combined with the division into three parts, which are 'The Ice', 'The Heat' and 'The Smoke', has led many to believe it contains references to the three-part album project Beyoncé previously teased.
Additionally, fans believe this is a teaser for a rock-infused final act following "Renaissance" and "Cowboy Carter".
The Beyhive is watching closely.
Sean "Diddy" Combs was convicted of prostitution-related offenses but cleared of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Image: File.
9. Diddy remains behind bars after bail was denied
Sean 'Diddy' Combs remains behind bars after a US judge rejected his R900 million bail application.
The court ruled that Combs poses both a flight risk and a danger to the public. His sentencing is scheduled for October 3.
The disgraced music mogul was found guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution and faces up to ten years in prison.
Despite the letter written by former partner Virginia Huynh in support of Combs, the judge noted the severity of the charges and the risk of further harm if released.
Tyla continues to make waves in the music industry with her nomination for Best Choreography at the 2025 MTV VMAs for her vibrant music video "Push 2 Start".
Image: X