Sfiso “Mafitsotso” Ndlovu, co-host of the controversial podcast Piano Pulse, has publicly apologised to Amapiano star Thatohatsi following widespread outrage over hurtful comments he made about her appearance. The apology comes after social media users demanded accountability, accusing the outspoken podcaster of bodyshaming the singer during one of the show’s episodes.
Ndlovu found himself at the centre of an online storm after a clip resurfaced in which he joked about Thatohatsi’s body, suggesting that even if she drank cooking oil, she would never gain weight. “Even if I were to lock her up and make her drink oil, she would never gain weight; she’s originally like that,” he said during the episode. The remarks were widely condemned as cruel and unnecessary, particularly in an industry already grappling with unrealistic beauty standards and the policing of women’s bodies.
The controversy intensified when the clip was edited into a compilation video alongside derogatory comments made by music executive Nota Baloyi about Thatohatsi. The mashup, which quickly went viral, created the impression of a coordinated attack on the Abantwana Bakho singer, further fuelling public anger. In response, Ndlovu clarified that the original video dated back to 2025 and insisted that his comments were taken out of context.
In his apology, Ndlovu acknowledged the pain caused by his words and took responsibility for his role in hurting the artist. “The full context of the clip was not to hurt you. I would never wake up and decide to hurt you. I’m sorry for my part. I account for my part in breaking your heart,” he said. He went on to apologise to Thatohatsi and her family, adding, “You don’t deserve it; you’re a beautiful woman. I care about you.”
He further admitted that careless commentary on platforms like podcasts can have far-reaching consequences. “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings or make you feel like less of a woman. A lot of people were hurt in the process. Sometimes we sit here and speak our minds, and we don’t see how much we’re hurting others. I’ll do better,” he added.
Despite his words, the apology was met with scepticism from many online users. Critics argued that it felt performative and reactive, driven more by the fear of being “cancelled” than genuine remorse. As the video continues to circulate, the incident has sparked renewed debate about the line between humour and harm, and the responsibility media personalities carry when discussing public figures.
Sfiso apologises to Thatohatsi on Piano Pulse Podcast. pic.twitter.com/3Tw7bTMyFf
— Piano Connect (@PianoConnectSA) January 20, 2026
