It seems like Simphiwe Dana might have unintentionally sparked a social media firestorm.
After the recent episode of Shaka iLembe aired, Simphiwe took to social media to accuse Nomzamo Mbatha and other big brands of stealing her style, specifically her hairstyles.
In a now-deleted post, Simphiwe expressed her frustration, saying that people should give credit where it’s due and acknowledge her influence on the hairstyles they use.
However, her post backfired and she quickly became the subject of ridicule on social media. People took to X (previously Twitter) to call her out, while others showed off their own Afrochic hairdos, poking fun at her accusations.
Known for her lighthearted nature on social media, Sannah Mchunu wasn’t afraid to join in on the fun. She took to Instagram to post two separate pictures, poking fun at Simphiwe and referring to her using the 2004 hit song “Ndiredi.”
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In one post, the actress shared a photo of herself donning a similar hairdo, jokingly asking if she should have also asked for Simphiwe’s permission. This sparked a wave of laughter, mocking and dragging from internet users, with some joining in on the joke.
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Simphiwe’s now deleted social media posts have sparked a heated debate about style ownership and the power of social media. While she may have intended to protect her brand and intellectual property, her approach has been met with widespread ridicule and criticism.
Other celebrities joined in:
Khanyi Mbau said: “Shuti, sorry.”
Bontle Modiselle expressed “Aowa….This won’t end how she thought. It’s so strange coming from her when history says otherwise.”
Media sensation Somizi added: “Nami, I’m tired of people copying my frontals. I’m the original creator of that hairstyle. @lebo_molax and @kamo_ww and @djzinhle lol.”
Meanwhile, the rest of the public outside of Celebville also joined the club and dragged Simphiwe Dana:
One internet user said: “Other girls are working while you’re chasing clout using their names at 2am! You should be ashamed of yourself.”
“I don’t think she was thinking…She just had a nightmare and decided to tell us,” added another.
Yet another user elaborated: “Love her as an artist, but aowa this is not the one. On Facebook, someone even shared a website showing research could have been done for shows like Shaka iLembe into how they had their hair.”
Also see: Simphiwe Dana calls out Nomzamo Mbatha and Shaka ILembe for uncredited hair inspo
