Shebeshxt, whose real name is Lehlogonolo Chauke, has recently opened up about the deep financial struggles he is facing following the tragic loss of his daughter in a car accident earlier this year. Known for his upbeat and humorous persona on social media, Shebeshxt revealed that behind the jokes, he is still reeling from the trauma of losing his child, an experience that has dramatically altered his life and finances. In an emotional disclosure, he shared how the accident in June changed the course of his life, leaving him not only grieving but also overwhelmed by a mounting debt.
Despite his public appearance of being cheerful and carefree, Shebeshxt admitted that his financial situation is far from stable. “Since my return, it seems as though I have money, but I have been struggling,” he confessed. He explained that one of his biggest regrets was following advice to refrain from taking up gigs after his daughter’s passing, as people warned that such bookings might harm his reputation. Unfortunately, this decision has only worsened his financial position. He owes substantial amounts to event organisers who had booked him before the accident, and he has had to cancel appearances, further compounding his debt. “I had R2 million in debt, but now I have over a million after making R500k from The Return of Shebeshxt donations for my daughter’s foundation, which still doesn’t have proper documentation,” he added. Shebeshxt emphasized that he wasn’t seeking sympathy or donations, but simply expressing the pain he is enduring.
The financial strain has also led to him having to refund promoters who booked him for events that he could not attend following the accident. He spoke candidly about the toll this has taken on him, saying, “They used my daughter’s name to focus on the return of Shebeshxt, which only gave me R500k; now I’m left with debt.” His situation is complicated further by the fact that he had already committed to several gigs before the tragedy, but now finds himself having to reimburse promoters for events that did not go ahead. Despite the immense pressure, he expressed acceptance, saying, “But it’s fine; only God knows.”
In a heartwarming show of support, fellow Limpopo musician Makhadzi reached out to offer help. Expressing her sympathy and admiration for Shebeshxt’s strength, she wrote, “Sharing is caring, bafana; your statement broke my heart.” Makhadzi reflected on how, just days ago, she had worked alongside Shebeshxt, recording music through the night, unaware of the depth of his struggles. Recognising the courage it takes to keep going despite the pain, Makhadzi offered her assistance, stating that although Shebeshxt had declined public help, she was willing to lend a hand privately. “I just love the fact that you are strong, like me. You know how to hide the pain,” she said, offering a measure of comfort during an incredibly difficult time for her fellow artist.
Shebeshxt’s candid sharing of his personal and financial struggles has resonated deeply with fans and colleagues alike, reminding everyone that behind the laughter and performances, there are real-life challenges that many people are navigating in silence.
