Actress Jo-Anne Reyneke has stirred conversation online after openly sharing that marriage is simply not something she wants for herself. Speaking in an interview with Penuel Mlotshwa on The Konvo Show, the 37-year-old star made it clear that the institution holds no appeal for her.
“I don’t believe in marriage, and I don’t ever want to get married,” she stated without hesitation.
Reyneke, who recently appeared in Bad Influencer, explained that her stance comes from years of seeing women around her unhappy in their marriages. She said those experiences shaped her perception from a young age.
“All the married women were lesser than their men; they were almost shadows,” she said. She criticised the traditional expectations placed on women, adding, “Even the concept of being a bride, where you’re expected to do certain things for your husband’s family but he does nothing for yours. You’re his slave. You are bought, you have to change your last name while your surname dies out.”
Although she personally rejects the idea of marriage, Reyneke acknowledged that some people genuinely thrive in it. She emphasised that she respects those who choose that path — it’s simply not one she sees for herself.
The actress previously ended a decade-long relationship with fellow actor Thami Mngqolo in 2018. While the two never married, she hinted that she once had long-term hopes for the relationship before realising she was no longer happy.
Her candid take resonated with many women online, including those currently married. One supporter wrote, “As a married woman, I fully support you, Ntombi!” Another added, “Finally, someone said it. I knew I’d find my people.”