Babes WodumoVideo of Babes Wodumo dumps Showmax(Image Credit: Instagram @babes_wodumo)
KwaZulu-Natal-born musician Babes Wodumo, whose real name is Bongekile Simelane, has reportedly ended her collaboration with Showmax. The gqom sensation will now be partnering with a different streaming service to bring her reality TV series, Uthando Lodumo, to her audience.

Babes Wodumo and Showmax Part Ways

The upcoming third season of Uthando Lodumo will focus on the life of Babes Wodumo and her late husband, Mampintsha, whose real name was Mandla Maphumulo. Mampintsha, a member of the kwaito group Big Nuz, passed away on December 24, 2022. The couple has a two-year-old son, Hlelolenkosi Maphumulo, affectionately known as Sponge.

According to ZiMoja, there was no discord between Babes Wodumo and Showmax. Sources claim that the “Wololo” hitmaker left the streaming giant in pursuit of a better financial offer from another platform. Despite having already filmed several episodes with Showmax, Babes Wodumo reportedly requested more compensation, leading to her decision to explore other opportunities.

“That’s the only reason she left Showmax. She was shopping for a better deal,” a source revealed.

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Grief and Recovery in Season Three

The loss of her husband will be a significant theme in the third season of Uthando Lodumo. Babes Wodumo will share her experience of losing Mampintsha at a young age and the challenges she faced while coping with her grief.

When asked for a comment, Nondumiso Simelane, Babes Wodumo’s sister and manager, declined. However, Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment at MultiChoice, expressed support for the artist’s decision:

“We don’t own anyone. I am sure people are exploring options – that is the joy of a vibrant industry,” Philiso stated.

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Zuma to Feature in New Season

Former Amaroto group member Sabelo Zuma, known by his stage name Zuma, is expected to appear in the upcoming season of Uthando Lodumo. Sources suggest that the Amapiano star, who is rumored to be in a relationship with Babes Wodumo, will be part of the show alongside other artists.

Earlier this year, speculation about a romantic relationship between Babes Wodumo and Zuma emerged, but fans dismissed the rumors, claiming the two are cousins. In a recent interview with ZiMoja, Babes Wodumo emphasized that she is still grieving the loss of Mampintsha:

“I am still mourning my husband. Other days are tough, but every day I am fighting. I have a child to take care of, and my family is my priority,” she said.

 

By Letho