We live in a time where technology and social media connect us in ways never imagined before. Platforms like X (formally known as Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook allow us to share our lives with the world, but they also serve as spaces where public figures can be quickly judged.
In this digital age, a single post can fuel widespread outrage, leading to what we now call “cancel culture.” For many celebrities in mzansi, the power of social media has become both a blessing and a curse, with careers hanging in the balance.
One such example is television personality Katlego Maboe who experienced the impact of cancel culture. A video of him confessing to infidelity went viral, and soon after, allegations of domestic violence surfaced.
Although the damage to his career had already been done. He lost endorsements and television roles, showing how quickly a video can spiral into public scandals.
Actress Vatiswa Ndara penned a six-page open letter addressed to Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa, which she shared on X. The letter contained allegations that Connie and Shona Ferguson’s production company, Ferguson Films, had mistreated actors.
However, despite the public solidarity, Vatiswa faced harsh consequences. In the aftermath of the letter, she found herself blacklisted, with no production company willing to book her for TV roles.
Unfollowed, a Showmax Original docu-series, explores cancel culture in South Africa by focusing on the real-life experiences of celebrities who have faced public backlash on social media.
Singer Lady Zamar shared her story on the docu-series and reflected on the events that led to her being cancelled, offering insight into her personal experience with public scrutiny.
She received widespread support when she accused Sjava of abuse. However, when the courts ruled in Sjava’s favour, the tables quickly turned on her. Social media users branded her as a liar, and she became a target of online bullying and harassment.
In a discussion with Daily Sun, Simphiwe Majola, a public relations expert, brand engineer and fashionista, unpacked how cancel culture can damage one’s public image.
Simphiwe explained to the publication that cancel culture can severely impact celebrities’ careers and social lives, leading to lost income from brand endorsements, partnerships, and performance opportunities. From a PR perspective, he noted that being “cancelled” often leaves an artist’s public image and reputation heavily damaged, with no clear way to determine right or wrong.
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