From racist remarks to legal battles and celebrity kidnappings

IT’S BEEN another whirlwind week in the world of fame, with chart-topping releases, courtroom drama, rising stars being recognised, and a few heartwarming moments thrown in.

- NOMATHAMSANGA SITHATHU

Open Chats Podcast faces backlash for racist comments

The racist comments made on the Open Chats 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, | 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 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’ organisation. According to court papers, Dlamini rejected MacG’s apology, choosing instead to pursue legal accountability.

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.