Trending Now: the hard truth about public life, motherhood and ‘Uthando neS’thembu’ fame – Fans React

Season nine of “Uthando neS’thembu” has left many viewers with mixed feelings. With all the drama between polygamist Musa Mseleku, who particularly focuses on his relationship with his third wife, Thobile Mseleku, popularly known as MaKhumalo. 

The couple’s marriage is facing difficulties, and they are struggling to be on the same page. MaKhumalo also seems to be rethinking her commitment to the union, and their future is looking shaky. 

In a previous episode, the pair had an intense conversation during a sit-down dinner about their relationship and where their marriage currently stands. It was one of the rare moments on the show where MaKhumalo openly disagreed with Musa.

The cracks in their relationship started showing after Musa married his fifth wife, MaKhwela.

Over the years, MaKhumalo has often been viewed by fans as the most understanding of Musa’s wives. Seeing the pair clashing, therefore, came as a surprise to many viewers, with some expressing their opinions about the state of their relationship.

Following the episode, MaKhumalo spoke about life in the public eye, how she raises her daughter and how she protects her peace while living such a visible life.

Being part of a reality show means that much of MaKhumalo’s life is constantly discussed by viewers. She acknowledges that once someone agrees to share their life on television, public commentary is unavoidable.

“As we all know, everyone has freedom of speech, and there is nothing we can do about that,” she said in an interview.

“When we decided to be on a reality show, we opened ourselves up to people’s opinions, whether they are good or bad, and we cannot blame them for that.”

While she understands that viewers interpret situations differently, she hopes people try to look at things more carefully before forming conclusions.

“When people watch the show, they analyse it in the way they see and understand it. However, I do wish people would try to understand certain situations better before they say they know for sure what is happening,” she explained.

Away from the cameras, MaKhumalo says one of the most important parts of her life is being a mother to her daughter, Mpilo.

MaKhumalo has been raising Musa’s daughter, who he shares with another woman from his past. Over the years, her relationship with Mpilo grew stronger.

She described her parenting style as one that is guided by faith and shaped by the values she learned from her own upbringing.

“My parenting style is not that unique. I trust God to guide me in raising her,” she said.

MaKhumalo explained that she grew up in a family built on faith, respect and humility, and those values continue to guide how she raises her daughter today. At the same time, she recognises that parenting in a new generation requires flexibility and openness.

“Our children are different from us and in many ways they are more advanced,” she said. “I try to parent with an open heart and an open mind.

“I do not force her to live according to my life choices. I want her to live the way she wants to live because she is the author of her own story,” she said.

Despite being part of one of South Africa’s most-watched reality shows, MaKhumalo says she does not see herself as a celebrity. Remembering where she comes from helps her remain grounded.

“I believe understanding that the show will come and go helps me stay grounded,” she said. “With or without the show, I remain who I am. I do not see myself as a celebrity or a star. I see myself as a normal human being, and I try to treat everyone with love and respect.”

Being constantly watched by viewers has also helped MaKhumalo reflect on herself and what truly matters in life.

“Being in the public eye has taught me that there is nothing special about me. I am just like everyone else. I am human,” she said. She added that the experience has also reminded her not to place too much value on fame or material success.

The intensity of her relationship with her husband continues to build up as the show progresses. 

• Season nine of “Uthando neS’thembu” is currently airing on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) on Wednesday and Thursday at 8pm.