MacG’s ‘Podcast and Chill’ Dropped by DStv Following Controversy; Fans Rally in Support

DStv has ended its broadcast of Macgyver ‘MacG’ Mukwevho’s popular show, Podcast and Chill, following a controversial comment made by the host about media personality Minnie Dlamini. The decision has sparked a wave of reactions from fans, many of whom are threatening to cancel their DStv subscriptions in protest.

The controversy began when MacG suggested that Dlamini “can’t keep a man,” implying it might be due to hygiene issues. Although MacG later issued an apology, Dlamini rejected it, stating that the apology was only made after realizing the potential damage to his reputation and career.

While the contentious episode did not air on DStv, the broadcaster cited a desire to make way for “fresh and exciting content” as the reason for discontinuing the show. Leading Edge Growth, DStv’s digital distribution partner, confirmed the removal, stating that both Podcast and Chill and Awkward Dates are nearing their final episodes, allowing for new content to take their place.

Fans of the show, known as “Chillers,” have expressed their dissatisfaction with DStv’s decision. Many have taken to social media to voice their support for MacG, with some even canceling their DStv subscriptions. One fan tweeted, “MacG is bigger than DStv, maybe they don’t understand. If they wake up with 1 million unsubscribers, then what?”

Co-host Sol Phenduka reacted to the fan support, expressing surprise at the lengths to which fans are going to show their loyalty. He noted the fans’ willingness to cut ties with DStv, despite many South Africans’ dependence on the broadcaster.

MacG, for his part, does not believe the show’s removal is part of an industry plot against him. He stated, “No, absolutely not. DStv has been a great partner throughout this process. They’ve backed what we’re doing from the beginning.”

The incident has also drawn attention from government officials. Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, criticized MacG’s comments, calling them “nauseating in their vulgarity” and a violation of Dlamini’s rights. However, a proposal to refer MacG to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee was declined, as Dlamini had not approached Parliament nor laid a criminal case.

As the debate continues, MacG’s supporters remain steadfast, with many asserting that the podcaster’s influence and reach surpass that of traditional broadcasters.

Source: YFM