Author and social commentator Jackie Phamotse has weighed in on the growing backlash surrounding a viral video of media personality Somizi Mhlongo, which many social media users interpreted as him imitating television personality Nonhle Thema.
The conversation erupted after Somizi shared a video featuring exaggerated facial expressions and an orange wig, shortly after Nonhle’s widely discussed radio interview. While many online users found the clip humorous, others believed it mocked the former media star.
Jackie Phamotse’s strong response
Responding to the video on X, Phamotse criticised Somizi’s actions, arguing that the incident reflects a broader pattern.
“He used to do this back in the day… He enjoys ridiculing women,” she claimed, adding that what some dismiss as “just a game” can have a lasting emotional impact on the people involved.
She also referenced what she described as years of jokes and comparisons directed at women, concluding her post by saying, “Now it’s Nonhle. What a shame.”
He used to do this back in the day, he was the petrol that gave the hate train of LKG! He enjoys ridiculing women. This is just a “game” until it’s not! For years he would ridicule her and make comparison “jokes” that hurt her immensely. Now it’s Nonhle . What a shame. https://t.co/vYMRSbPd0A
— Jackie Phamotse (@JackiePhamotse) July 22, 2026
Also see: Jackie Phamotse sparks debate over comment on African parents and rape
Somizi denies mocking Nonhle
Following criticism from online users, Somizi has since responded, insisting there was no intention to ridicule Nonhle. He said he was simply enjoying a trending sound and questioned why some people assumed there was a hidden meaning behind the clip.
“So, can’t we have fun anymore? I wasn’t mocking anything,” he said, maintaining that the video was never intended as an attack.
The incident has sparked wider conversations about the line between comedy, parody and public ridicule. While some social media users believe celebrity impersonations are part of entertainment culture, others argue that repeated jokes at someone’s expense can contribute to online bullying.
As the debate continues, the differing reactions highlight how audiences increasingly expect public figures to balance humour with sensitivity in the age of viral social media.
(Image: Instagram / @jackie_phamotse)
Also see: Jackie Phamotse writes open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa
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