Pearl Thusi’s recent social media plea for a husband has ignited a firestorm, with controversial influencer Nota Baloyi leading the charge of critics.
The actress and media personality, known for her outspoken nature and captivating presence on screens and radio, took the internet by surprise with a video declaring her search for a partner.
Highlighting the inconvenience of finding panel beaters during the holiday season, she lamented, "I am going to send application forms because this independent woman [life] is not working out for me.”
@zukilebathandwamajova #PearlThusi is desperately looking for a husband. Who would be the perfect match? #hubby
Whether this was a playful festive season joke or a genuine expression of desire remains unclear.
However, the statement did not go unnoticed by Nota Baloyi, who responded with a scathing rebuke.
“Remove that sh*t in your nose so that we can hear you properly. I’m sure there is a rich man in Venda who can take care of you,” he lashed out, targeting the former Miss Kwazulu-Natal and Miss SA Teen first runner-up. Baloyi's harsh words added fuel to the already burning debate surrounding Thusi's announcement.
Thusi, a successful model, television personality, and radio presenter, has enjoyed a prominent career, gracing television screens and featuring in numerous commercials. However, she is no stranger to public scrutiny. Her fashion choices have often been criticised, with many finding her style too provocative for her age. Her revealing photos have sparked heated debates, with some labelling her an attention-seeker.
Despite this, Thusi has remained unapologetic, previously addressing criticism of her twerking with the statement: “I love my body … I am going to enjoy it and I am going to show it off because wow, I have worked so hard. God did the damn things. I am gorgeous, I really am and I know it. I want to turn 50 and look back at these videos and say [I was hot]. Until then, I hope everybody can find peace, enjoy their day, and be happy so that you can stop worrying about me and my bum.”
More recently, her DJing skills have also come under fire, with a viral video leading to negative comments. This latest controversy, however, has arguably been the most intense. The New Year's Day saw Thusi post a subdued tweet, reflecting on the significant backlash she faced following her involvement in the Chidimma Adetshina citizenship scandal.
“I’ll never understand sometimes the level of hate and disrespect I get here. I just live my life, and how that upset so many people I’ve realised is not my concern to understand. But if lying and dragging my name makes you happy, I’m glad I brought [you] that short-lived happiness. I hope you guys never experience what you’ve put me through. Without God, I wouldn’t have survived that and still continued rising. I’m truly [a] living proof that only God can destroy what and who he’s built. Regardless, I hope you all have a beautiful 2025.”
Despite the constant barrage of criticism, Thusi expressed gratitude for the support she has received.
“I’d like to thank and focus on the people who’ve prayed, loved and supported me through my success, silence and setbacks. May God continue blessing all of you abundantly and thank you for the love and strength that’s been channelled through you to me over the years.”
