The latest episode of Moja Love’s Isencane Lengane, which aired on Sunday, has set social media ablaze, with viewers demanding the show’s cancellation over its depiction of alleged abuse.
The reality series, which follows the troubled marriage of Siyacela and Thando Dlamuka, who wed as teens at 16, has long been a lightning rod for controversy.
Now, the newest installment has pushed fans past their breaking point, accusing the show of glorifying gender-based violence (GBV) and exploiting its stars for ratings.
In the episode, Siyacela, now 21, unleashed verbal and emotional abuse on Thando, clashing with elders and hurling insults.
Social media X users were horrified, with @joy_zelda slamming his “evil utterances” and calling the channel “disgusting” for airing such content.
Pattern of troubling behaviour
The episode follows a pattern of troubling behaviour from Siyacela, including past admissions of physical violence and cheating, notably a 2023 episode where he confessed to hitting Thando and smashing her phone.
Viewers are livid that production continues to film without intervening, with @MxolisiMas noting: “When a man talks about locking his wife in a burning car on camera, and it’s entertainment, we’ve lost the plot.”
The backlash has reignited calls for Isencane Lengane’s axing, with petitions circulating online.
Critics argue that the show, a Moja Love staple since 2019, normalises child marriage and patriarchal norms while profiting from Thando’s suffering.
“Moja Love is watching this girl being abused, and the cameras keep rolling,” fumed one user.
Reality TV ethics
The channel’s defence — that the show sparks debate about GBV — rings hollow for many, especially after a 2023 Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa fine for failing to address violent content was overturned.
Moja Love insists that it offers Thando support, but fans like @karabo__ say: “This is too toxic. We’re always anxious watching.”
As Isencane Lengane trends for all the wrong reasons, it raises tough questions about reality TV ethics. High ratings keep the show alive, but at what cost?
Thando’s plight has viewers worried for her safety, with @TrevorBZungu blasting Siyacela’s “disrespectful” conduct.
With outrage mounting, Moja Love must decide whether to pull the plug or risk further backlash.
For now, the nation watches, torn between fascination and fury, as Thando’s real-life drama plays out on screen.
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