Kelly Khumalo has broken her silence on the private struggles of raising her three children, delivering a blistering critique of the men she describes as deadbeat dads. The artist, known for her powerful voice and forthright nature, did not hold back in her assessment, though she reserved a moment of poignant praise for one absent father.
Khumalo, who was primarily raised by her mother and grandmother in Johannesburg, spoke about drawing on her personal history to build resilience for her children. However, she expressed profound disappointment in the lack of support from the living fathers of her children, musicians Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye and footballer Mthokozisi Yende. She stated unequivocally that she has been left to shoulder the financial and emotional responsibilities alone.
ALSO READ: Family Rejects Suicide Claim In Ambassador’s Paris Hotel Death
Kelly Khumalo Brands Jub Jub And Mthokozisi Yende As Deadbeat Dads
The interview took a dramatic turn when Khumalo was asked about co-parenting. With startling candour, she dismissed the fathers as entirely unhelpful. The singer declared, “They are all useless, all of them.” She expanded on this, suggesting that the men have been completely absent from their provision duties, leaving her to manage everything single-handedly. This stark revelation is set to send shockwaves through their respective circles in the entertainment and sports industries.
Amidst the criticism, one figure was notably exempted from Khumalo’s wrath: the late Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa. The footballer, who was tragically shot and killed in 2014 at the home of Khumalo’s mother, is the father of her daughter, Thingo. Khumalo’s tone softened considerably when his name was invoked, suggesting a deep-seated belief in his character that contrasts sharply with her view of the others.
She told the podcast hosts,
“Well, except for one. If he were here, trust me, he would have been a responsible father.”
This heartfelt tribute has been seen by many fans as a touching nod to the man she believes was taken from their daughter far too soon, a sentiment that adds a layer of tragedy to her current frustrations.
ALSO READ: Biri Marung Hitmaker Tebogo Mashego Slams Sony and DJ Maphorisa After Getting Stranded in Nigeria
The Weight of Single Motherhood
Drawing from her own childhood, Khumalo detailed the immense pressure of being the sole pillar for her family. She explained how her upbringing by strong matriarchal figures prepared her for this reality, but not for the disappointment that comes with a lack of partnership. The emotional and financial toll was a central theme of her discussion, painting a picture of a woman who has been forced to become both mother and father. While she possesses the strength to persevere, the interview made it clear that the struggle is a constant and wearying one, a burden she never anticipated carrying alone.