Fans of Durban-based radio presenter Felix Hlophe have started a petition in a bid to save his job following his suspension from Gagasi FM.
The petition, titled Mvikeleni uFelix Hlophe Ekubhujisweni (Protect Felix Hlophe From Being Crucified), comes after a video of the radio host went viral on social media, showing him asking his first wife, Tracy Hlophe, and their children to return home for Christmas.
The controversy reportedly stems from Felix’s recent payment of lobola for his second wife, Ayanda Bhengu, which upset Tracy and led her to temporarily move out of the family home with the children.
Sources close to the family explained that Tracy relocated to stay with a friend and had promised Felix she would return before Christmas.
“Shortly after the lobola was paid for Ayanda, Tracy became bitter and decided to move out with the kids to stay with a friend. This is the same friend who decided to take a video of Felix when he came to ask for Tracy to move back at home with the kids for Christmas. It’s not true that she was attacked or beaten, it’s a friend who wanted to paint a picture that Felix was abusive on that day,” said a source familiar with the situation.
The video’s circulation prompted Gagasi FM to place Felix on special leave until January 19.
Another source added context to the family dynamics, saying Felix’s frustration was understandable given the circumstances:
“He was frustrated and stressed because it was clear that his wife and kids were going to spend their Christmas day at a friend’s house. The person who must be blamed for all this drama is Tracy. Tracy is behaving like she’s being abused or forced to be with Felix. She knew that Felix wanted a second wife and she was okay with it.”
The source further highlighted that Tracy had previously shared her preferences regarding Felix’s second wife during the reality TV show Life With Felix, contributing to public perceptions that painted Felix in a negative light.
“Tracy even dictated live on Mzansi Magic’s reality TV show called Life With Felix where she made it clear what kind of woman she wanted as the second wife of Felix. Tracy and her friends made sure that Felix looks like a bad guy. He may have erred there and there but he wanted to spend the Christmas day with his family,” the source said.