Latest news with #AwkwardDates
The Citizen
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘Absolutely not': MacG denies DStv axe linked to alleged industry plot against him
A few weeks ago, MacG alleged that a WhatsApp group of celebrities — including Cassper Nyovest — was plotting his downfall. MacG says he doesn't believe his axe from DStv is part of an industry ploy to take him down. Picture: macgunleashed/Instagram Controversial broadcaster and entrepreneur Macgyver 'MacG' Mukwevho doesn't believe his axe from Dstv is part of an industry ploy to take him down. 'No, absolutely not. DStv has been a great partner throughout this process. They've backed what we're doing from the beginning,' MacG told The Citizen on Monday. Over the weekend, DStv's digital distribution partner, Leading Edge Growth, confirmed that DStv has removed MacG's Podcast and Chill from all its TV channels. 'Season one of Podcast and Chill and season one of Awkward Dates are nearing their final episodes in the coming weeks, making way for fresh and exciting content to take their place in these time slots,' said Leading Edge Growth CEO Lufuno Maliavusa. A few weeks ago, speaking on Podcast and Chill, MacG said there was a WhatsApp group of celebrities and other industry players, including Cassper Nyovest, which is planning his downfall. ALSO READ: DStv cuts ties with MacG's Podcast and Chill No connection to the group MacG said he learnt of the group's existence through a female friend of his. 'She's part of a group of celebrities, and apparently Cassper's in this group. Where they are literally plotting my demise, bro,' said MacG, telling his co-host, Sol Phenduka. MacG provided a screenshot of the alleged group and also shared that he has met some of its members. 'I remember there's a guy in this group who I met at the garage, and I was like 'yo, what up man' he said 'yo man, [I] love your sh*t…' but he's in this group saying sh*t about me,' expressed MacG. However, speaking to The Citizen on Monday, MacG said his split from DStv has no connection to the alleged plot, adding that he and DStv have a partnership. 'They believe in the vision and the idea that we can exist side by side and create something meaningful together. It's a real partnership,' said MacG. ALSO READ: MacG says his partnership with MultiChoice is 'a natural evolution' despite it being criticised as a lazy move by the broadcaster [VIDEO] Not unbothered Even though reports have claimed MacG to be unmoved by the exit from DStv, he said he's not unbothered. 'Honestly, I'm not unbothered. I feel things like anyone else would. But I also know this expansion into TV is way bigger than me,' said the broadcaster, who is also a DJ. The exit from DStv is limited only to Podcast and Chill, not to other podcasts under the Podcast and Chill Network brand. Shows like People Need Comedy (PNC) and Piano Pulse are still on TV. 'With Spreading Humours, PNC, and Piano Pulse, we're still active in that space. Podcast and Chill Network isn't going anywhere when it comes to traditional media. We're still showing up' Despite the unsavoury things MacG has said about media personality Minnie Dlamini and now being axed from Dstv, ardent viewers of Podcast and Chill, who are fondly referred to as 'chillers', have shown MacG unwavering support. 'The Chillers have been incredible,' he says. 'They've supported us fully, even while we're still figuring things out. They've been patient, loyal, and real with us. That kind of support means everything.' NOW READ: 'I will continue to pursue legal recourse': Minnie Dlamini breaks silence after MacG's apology
The Citizen
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
DStv cuts ties with MacG's Podcast and Chill
'To keep our content slate dynamic and engaging, we will continue to make adjustments to our roster.' Following a controversial statement about one of South Africa's loved celebrities by Podcast and Chill host Macgyver Mukwevho, popularly known as MacG, Dstv has decided to stop airing the show on its platform. MacG has been in the hot seat after making a comment about media personality Minnie Dlamini's private part in one of the episodes. However, Dstv did not air the episode in question; it was only aired on the Podcast and Chill channel on YouTube. Dstv's digital distribution partner, Leading Edge Growth, confirmed to Timeslive that Dstv has removed the popular podcast. End of an era for MacG Leading Edge Growth CEO Lufuno Maliavusa gave the confirmation that the show has been pulled. Citing 'To keep our content slate dynamic and engaging, we will continue to make adjustments to our roster. Notably, season one of Podcast and Chill and season one of Awkward Dates are nearing their final episodes in the coming weeks, making way for fresh and exciting content to take their place in these time slots.' This follows after MultiChoice refused to confirm the news of the show's cancellation. The Group only said it 'licensed a slate of podcasts' from Leading Edge Growth, which was 'responsible for curating the podcast slate, taking into account audience dynamics and content demand.' However, MacG is reportedly 'unmoved' by the news, as he is 'pursuing other endeavours'. ALSO READ: MacG's commenting goes beyond the bounds of free speech Deputy Minister about MacG's show The episode that spoke about Dlamini received attention from the Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike. She said MacG's comments were nauseating in their vulgarity and must be regarded as an unconstitutional violation of Dlamini's rights to freedom and security of the person, equality, and human dignity as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Letsike wanted MacG to be referred to the Parliament's Portfolio Committee, however, this was declined. Parliament declines to summon MacG 'I think the majority of members are not in favour of us proceeding as the honorable minister, deputy minister had requested us to do,' the committee's chairperson Liezl van der Merwe said. She pointed out that Dlamini had not approached Parliament nor laid a criminal case. 'I think all of you have touched on this point that if we do decide it is our mandate to proceed with hearing one case of cyber-bullying, it would mean that this portfolio committee would have to extend that to every other person because they cannot be selective in choosing one case.' ALSO READ: Media bullies should not be shielded by popularity MacG apologises MacG has since apologised in one his episodes, saying he never intended to offend anyone. 'I want to apologise, first and foremost, to all the female chillers, and women in general in SA, I might have offended with that comment. That was not the intention. We never say things to offend people,' he said. 'I want to extend an invite to Minnie Dlamini to the show. You are more than welcome to come. 'This thing started on the podcast—let's end it on the podcast. She said some things, I said some things. Let's squash it once and for all.' Dlamini to pursue legal recourse Dlamini said she was hurt and shocked by the comments made about her body and personal life on the podcast. 'Over the past few weeks, I have watched in disbelief and deep pain as my name, body, and dignity were dragged through the mud of public discourse,' she said. She described the remarks made by MacG as 'vile, humiliating, and inexcusable'. Dlamini said she is taking legal action to stand up for herself and the dignity of women. NOW READ: MacG says his partnership with MultiChoice is 'a natural evolution' despite it being criticised as a lazy move by the broadcaster [VIDEO]
IOL News
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Lasizwe Dambuza's dream date with Zozibini Tunzi on 'Awkward Dates'
Digital content creator Lasizwe Dambuza has landed one of his wish list guests, for his YouTube show "Awkward Dates". Manifestation is often the first step in asking the universe to grant you, your desires. Just ask YouTuber and content creator Lasizwe Dambuza. Dambuza shared several names of South Africa's top media personalities a week ago that he would like to have on his show, 'Awkward Dates.' Among the names on his list was former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, and as the saying goes, ask and you shall receive. 'Kinda nervous, on an awkward date with Miss Universe!' Dambuza captioned a carousel of pictures with him and Tunzi.
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Lasizwe dreams big: Tyla and Bonang Matheba top his 'Awkward Dates' guest list
Among the names are TV personality Bonang Matheba, Grammy winner Tyla, viral sensation Uncle Waffles, "Shaka iLembe" lead Thembinkosi Mthembu, and former Miss Universe, Zozibini Tunzi. The YouTuber and content creator recently took to Instagram to share the famous faces he dreams of having across the table from him. Lasizwe is entering his dream guest era. With his YouTube show "Awkward Dates" becoming a fan favourite for its messy moments, flirtatious chaos, and painfully funny silences, the content creator is now manifesting his ultimate celebrity line-up, and Mzansi is eating it up. 'Manifesting to go on an 'Awkward Date' with them! Who else should I ask to go on a date with?' he wrote, tagging the stars in the post. The comment section was flooded with suggestions from fans, who threw in names like Babes Wodumo, Nomzamo Mbatha and even more unexpected picks, proving that Mzansi loves the mix of charm, cringe and randomness that the show delivers. And we get to see a different side of these celebs as they are put in these unpleasant situations. Since launching in 2022, "Awkward Dates" has become known for its unfiltered, sometimes uncomfortable questions. From his date with Pamela Mtanga where things got steamy and uncomfortable, to the episode with Nolo Seabi that had everyone choosing sides on social media – each guest brings something new to the awkward dining table. One moment it's cute flirting, the next you're nursing secondhand embarrassment. Fans have praised the show for its humour and unpredictability, a refreshing break from overly scripted content. Lasizwe keeps it real, asking the questions most wouldn't dare and somehow still making it charming. Reaching a million subscribers shows just how far he's come, from comedy skits in a pink robe to rubbing shoulders with the country's most talked-about stars. With the way things are going, seeing Tyla or Uncle Waffles across the table is not far-fetched.
