The reality TV show Life with Felix Hlophe has come under fire from viewers, with growing calls for it to be canned.
At the heart of the controversy are accusations that the show promotes promiscuity. Critics claim that Felix is parading his side chick, Ayanda Bhengu, on national television, disrespecting his wife, Tracy Smith-Hlophe, in the process.
Viewers slam show’s narrative
Sanele Mkhize took to social media platform X and wrote: “Mzansi Magic probably ran out of interesting celebrities with interesting storylines because what is this? Or maybe the Mselekus set the bar way too high? #LifeWithFelixHlophe #LifeWithFelix.”
Zanny wrote: “Ei they must shut down this whole thing. Iyabhora le #LifewithFelix. Every episode is about his infidelity disguised as a pursuit for polygamy.”
While Bonginhlanhla Biyela said: “Nah this one doesn’t respect Tracy #LifewithFelix.”
Hlophe hit back at critics.
“There’s nothing going on between myself and Zama. She’s a close friend of my wife and part of her support system. She means a lot to our family; she’s like a mother to my children. And she’s strict and respectable, and I’ve never seen her in a romantic light. Our friendship is genuine, honest, and transparent. I honestly don’t understand why people are reading into it.”
Hlophe blames SA attitude towards reality TV
Hlophe also addressed the criticism surrounding the broader nature of reality shows in South Africa.
“South Africans often have negative things to say about reality shows. I’m not shaken or bothered by the comments. That’s just how viewers here are, they complain, yet they keep watching. Ironically, my show is one of the most watched,” he said.
Touching on his desire for a polygamous marriage, Hlophe explained:
“I love my wife. But I still want to pursue isithembu. There’s nothing promiscuous about that, it’s part of our tradition.
“People act like I’m doing something new, but this is our culture. Ayanda is not yet my wife, which is why we’ve been dating. It was important to ensure we were compatible and that she fits into the family. Now that we’ve reached that stage, I want to marry her.”
Professes love for both women
He acknowledged that there had been challenges in the process.
“Yes, I’ll make mistakes, but those hiccups don’t mean we’re being promiscuous. What matters is that I still love and respect my wife.”
According to Hlophe, his wife and girlfriend once had a good relationship. But tensions arose along the way, leading Tracy to reject the idea of polygamy.
“My current responsibility is to help repair their relationship so they can find common ground. The show captures me in various roles. As a father, husband, broadcaster, comedian, and an aspiring polygamist.
“I know people are overwhelmed by my desire for isithembu. But they need to understand that I’ve done my research, sought guidance, and received coaching. It won’t happen overnight. This is real life, it’s messy and far from perfect.”
Portia Hlongwane from MultiChoice said: “Life with Felix is a reality series that follows the life of outspoken radio host and comedian Felix Hlophe. The goal is to give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at how he juggles his career and personal life.”
