The The Makhenes star opens up about reclaiming her narrative after a damaging “smear campaign” and the emotional toll her partner choices have had on her children.
By Bulelwa Hoala
Since premiering on Mzansi Magic in April, The Makhenes has quickly become one of South Africa’s most talked-about reality shows.
The reality show gives viewers an intimate and unfiltered look into the deeply personal lives of one of the country’s most recognisable families as they explore themes of love, conflict, healing, mental health and personal growth.
In a recent episode, Letoya Makhene celebrated her partner’s birthday, while Pauline opened up about her mental health journey. Gontse’s personal struggles were also explored, adding insight into her story.
Watch the explosive episode trailer below:
Reclaiming the Narrative After Public Scrutiny
As conversations around the show continue to trend online, Mzansi Magic caught up with Makhene, who reflected on why she chose to open up her life to viewers through reality television and how the experience became more than just another career move.
According to the star, the idea for the show came directly from her.
“It was my idea. I approached producers and shared my concept with them, and they then took it to the channel,” she explained.
While the show presented a financial opportunity after what she describes as a damaging “smear campaign” impacted her career, it also became a platform for her to reclaim her own story.
“Beyond it being a good financial opportunity and helping me get back on my feet after the first smear campaign against me shut down my work, it was also a chance to correct the narrative and allow people to decide for themselves, through my story, whether they want to love or hate me,” she said.
Survival in a Cruel Industry
Having entered the entertainment industry at a young age, Makhene says years in the public eye have changed her perspective on trust, relationships, and survival.
“I’ve had to grow a thicker skin and accept that not everyone can be trusted,” she shared.
“We live in a world that can be cruel, where people will sometimes try to destroy you just to get ahead.”
The Emotional Weight of Motherhood
Away from the cameras and headlines, Makhene says motherhood remains the most important part of her life.
Describing herself as a “doting mom”, she admitted that some of her personal choices have had an impact on her children, something she continues to wrestle with emotionally.
“That’s why it hurts so much knowing that some of my choices have affected them negatively,” she said.
“I’ve had to, and still continue to, do the work to forgive myself for where I’ve gone wrong. They are my world.”
Navigating Faith and Relationship Regrets
The actress also opened up about how she copes with negative attention and criticism, particularly when her love life becomes a trending topic online.
“I tend to retreat into my shell and pray a lot, just to find the strength and courage to face another day,” she revealed.
When asked how she balances being an actress, musician, mother and daughter while navigating public scrutiny around her relationships, Makhene admitted she is still trying to figure it out herself.
“This is a difficult question for me to answer right now,” she said.
“I am most disappointed in myself when it comes to my choices in partners, and I have worked too hard to establish balance. I am currently on a journey of self-discovery.”
The Makhenes airs every Sunday at 7pm on Mzansi Magic.
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