South African podcast host MacGyver “MacG” Mukwevho is at the centre of a national firestorm after making inflammatory and misogynistic comments about TV personality Minnie Dlamini during a recent episode of Podcast and Chill.
The controversial episode, which aired on April 25, featured degrading remarks about Dlamini’s personal life and hygiene, igniting a wave of public outrage. Despite fierce backlash, calls for cancellation, and threats of legal consequences, MacG has remained uncharacteristically silent—and unapologetic.
Public and Celebrity Backlash Explodes
Social media platforms erupted within hours of the episode’s release, with #CancelPodcastAndChill trending across the country. Celebrities, activists, and media personalities called out MacG for what they described as “blatant sexism” and “toxic masculinity.”
Former team member Ayabulela “AyaProw” Phakade added fuel to the fire by publicly questioning MacG’s character and hinting at a history of problematic behavior behind the scenes.
TV networks including Moja Love and MultiChoice quickly distanced themselves, clarifying that the episode did not air on any of their platforms. Meanwhile, advocacy group Women For Change slammed the podcast for “shaming women under the guise of entertainment,” and called on sponsors to sever ties with the show.
Legal & Political Ramifications Loom
The scandal has escalated beyond the entertainment world and into Parliament. The Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has vowed to summon MacG for questioning, stating that his comments may have violated Minnie Dlamini’s constitutional rights. Legal experts suggest he could face penalties, including fines or jail time, if he fails to cooperate.
Khusela Diko, Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, strongly condemned the podcast, emphasizing that “digital media is not a lawless space.”
Minnie Dlamini Responds with Strength
Minnie Dlamini, speaking to True Love magazine, responded with dignity, stating that her value “is not defined by any relationship.” Her ex-husband, Dr. Brian Monaisa, also defended her, calling the online speculation both “dangerous and false.”
Silence Speaks Volumes
Despite the mounting pressure, neither MacG nor Podcast and Chill has issued a statement. Critics argue this silence reflects a broader issue in South Africa’s digital media landscape—a lack of accountability when it comes to misogyny and harmful content.
The controversy has reignited national debates around free speech, digital ethics, and the urgent need for more responsible content creation in the online space.
What’s Next?
With sponsors reconsidering their involvement, public trust declining, and potential legal action on the horizon, the question now is: How long can MacG remain silent?
