Somizi faces ‘fake friend’ claims
South African media personality Somizi Mhlongo has been accused of being selective with his friendships in the entertainment industry.
The conversation gained traction after his visible support for Liema Pantsi during Big Brother Mzansi Bazozwa, where he openly rooted for her and even pledged to give her the R2 million grand prize if she didn’t win.
While some applauded the gesture, others viewed it as part of a pattern.
One X user, @Ndi_Muvenda_, didn’t hold back, writing: “Somizi is a perfect example of how fake the entertainment industry is. He sticks to anyone with clout, then moves on from them when it’s no longer beneficial. Very clever that one, if he’s not benefiting, he moves.”
Another user, @Koketso__, echoed the sentiment, claiming: “He latches himself to anyone with a bit clout then moves on from them when it’s no longer beneficial.”
The criticism didn’t stop there; a resurfaced photo of Somizi alongside businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize, popularly known as MaMkhize also stirred debate.
The pair were seen flaunting luxury designer bags, a moment that drew both admiration and backlash online.
Despite the noise, Somizi has previously spoken highly of their bond, revealing that their friendship spans over a decade.
“I am with you, I’m left in awe of your giving heart, generosity and kindness. Not just to me, but to people around you. My prayer is for you not only to be the go-to person but to have a person to go to for anything,” he once said about MaMkhize.
As the debate intensified, some fans came to his defense, arguing that his success and independence make the accusations baseless.
One user, @KLKKLK1457047, wrote: “Awume wena, Somizi is financially stable. He shines on his own. He’s using people for what? Instead, he let people into his life to shine with him. You wanna tell me you never changed friends in your life? Is he using them? how? Niyabhoreka yazi. Phuzani chillers punch.”
Others suggested the backlash stems from envy rather than facts.
“Is jealousy and envy that’s doing them because they’re the same people who tell those celebrities to help those who are coming up, but when they do it too, they term it as chasing clout,” @cakua123 argued.
@TheGyal_ added: “Now he’s using Liema and using Thandeka’s name for clout. One day you’ll see him with Thandeka and pretend nothing happened and laugh it off about fans, exactly what he did to Sweet Guluva.”