Kanye West in SA, royalty rumbles and Jimmy Kimmel's comeback: your weekly dose of star-studded drama

This week's celeb world was filled with drama, from Kanye West's planned December performance in Mzansi to local artists demanding unpaid royalties.

Here’s what has been making headlines this week:

Kanye West to perform in SA in December

American rapper Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) sent his South African fanbase into a frenzy after he shared a poster revealing that he will be performing in Johannesburg in December.

Even though the rapper himself confirmed that he will be touching down in SA later this year, there has been a divide over the eligibility of this event, as fans noticed a few things that raised their eyebrows.

However, the organiser of the event, Monyake Group, has promised a “showcasing of the best of local talent”, curating “a line-up that honours the very best of our local music industry.”

Khanyi Mbau’s ex-husband dies following complications from a stroke 

Businessman and a long-standing member of the African National Congress (ANC), Mandla Mthembu, died at 68 in New York earlier this week.

His family confirmed his death in a statement, saying: “Mr Mthembu was admitted to hospital, where he suffered a second stroke. Despite the tireless efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to complications related to the stroke.”

Lady Du honoured at the Africa Stars Gala 2025

South African singer-songwriter Lady Du, real name Duduzile Ngwenya, has been named as the winner of the Icon of Female Innovation in Africa category at the Africa’s Stars Gala 2025.

Taking to Instagram, the awards recognised the singer for her contribution to the music industry, highlighting her artistry and creativity.

“@ladydu_sa Ladydu’s journey of creativity, leadership and empowerment continues to inspire women across the continent and beyond. Her artistry, authorship and entrepreneurial vision exemplify the future of African innovation,” they wrote.

Uncle Waffles addresses sexuality and weight rumours 

South African Amapiano sensation, Uncle Waffles, took to TikTok to address the never-ending speculations regarding her weight as well as her sexuality.

The DJ clapped back by saying that her appearance should not bother anyone because she is doing things to please herself and not other people.

She further addressed the sexuality rumours, saying: “During that era, people were saying I should show them my vagina to prove that I’m a woman. Who are you to expect me to explain myself, especially about my anatomy?”

‘Hamba Juba’ hitmakers, Lady Amar and JL SA, speak out about unpaid royalties

South African producer Jackson Motla, known as JL SA, recently voiced his frustration on social media regarding unpaid dues for the 2023 viral hit “Hamba Juba”, which was a collaborative effort with Lady Amar, Murumba Pitch and Cici.

The producer revealed that despite the song clocking millions on streaming platforms, he never received any compensation for it.

DJ Lady Amar also broke her silence on the news and revealed that she never received any money after fans accused her of refusing to pay JL SA what is due to him.

'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' returns after suspension over Charlie Kirk remarks

Jimmy Kimmel’s live TV show was suspended after he suggested that Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting Kirk at a university in Utah, was aligned with the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.

However, a few days after the suspension, the Walt Disney Company released a statement announcing the show’s return, citing that they “made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country.”

They further added: “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday."

Actress Beáta Bena Green embraces growth after Miss SA rejects her for the fourth time

Model and actress Beáta Bena Green took to social media a week after the Top 10 Miss SA finalists were revealed to share an emotional video about being rejected in the beauty competition.

Green revealed that this was her fourth time being rejected.

Despite being sad about it, she instead decided to look at it from a positive view and said, “I think sometimes you don't get what you want, even if you work hard for it, but you get what you need from that work that you put in.”

Nomzamo Mbatha takes on New York

South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha (Nxumalo) shared a glimpse of her New York adventures on Instagram, giving fans her travel updates through her lens.

She posted a photo of herself in a black tracksuit and sneakers, captioning it, "Practical attire to hit the streets," showcasing her casual style.

While exploring the vibrant city, Mbatha excitedly shared that she bumped into Grammy Award-winning singer Mariah Carey.

Jojo Robinson and Calven ‘Boo-Bear’ celebrate their 11th anniversary

“The Real Housewives of Durban” reality TV star, Jojo Robinson, revealed on Instagram that she is on vacation in Abu Dhabi with her husband and their son to celebrate their 11th anniversary.

In a heartfelt social media post, she shared: “11 years as Mrs Robinson... Tomorrow we will be married for 11 years.

"This is why I love you ... this is why I believe in real love, the power of family, and have the most grateful heart every day for the life you've given us.”