Big Brother Mzansi has finally responded to the wave of criticism after transphobic comments were made by Thandeka and Ramona towards Ilano Sky, the show’s first-ever transgender housemate.
In previously unseen (but discussed) footage released by the show, Thandeka can be heard making deeply offensive comments:
“Act like a big c*ck of the walk. You’ve only been a woman for f*cking two minutes. F*cking two minutes. They better suspend those f*cking injections. That’s what it is. Wanna be a f*cking woman so bad. She doesn’t even know what comes with it!”
The remarks sparked fresh outrage online, with viewers calling for accountability from Big Brother and the eviction of the responsible housemates.
In response, the production issued disciplinary action: both Thandeka and Ramona were each given a strike by Big Brother for their conduct and behaviour that violated the house rules on respect, identity and dignity, including the use of homophobic and transphobic language.
During a diary session following the airing of the clips, Thandeka addressed her words and the reaction from Big Brother:
“Yes, what I said about Ilano was wrong, definitely… Could I have done it any differently? No, because that was me also trying to find justice for myself. Nobody forced those words out of me. I made a conscious decision to say them. So I am taking accountability for that and I am deeply sorry definitely to Big Brother because it’s things that I’ve thought about.”
She went on to express confusion about the impact of her remarks but acknowledged:
“Regardless of whether she was hurt or not, it’s not statements that I should ever say, ever. I am deeply sorry to have offended her in that way.”
Things are not looking good for the housemates, Trixie received a double strike. Liema, Thandeka and Ramona received a single strike each. Didi was banned from the next Head of House challenge. Tumi The Barber received a final warning. 🙆🏾♀️🥲
Watch the rest of the video here:… pic.twitter.com/VW9gqDlvmS
— Big Brother Mzansi (@BBMzansi) February 8, 2026
In the wake of the controversy and unseen footage, Thandeka’s family issued a public apology to Ilano, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the public. Their statement, shared on social media said:
“We acknowledge with deep regret the comment made by our sister, Thandeka Shabalala, during her time in the Big Brother house regarding Ilano’s gender identity. The statement made was inappropriate, hurtful, and does not reflect the values of respect, dignity, and inclusivity that we, as a family, stand for… We fully respect Ilano’s identity and affirm her right to live and be recognised as the woman she is.”
Big Brother’s decision to grant strikes reflects the show’s rules that prohibit language or behaviour that disrespects another housemate’s identity and promotes bullying or hate. Following similar disciplinary actions in past seasons, the reality TV format gives strikes as formal warnings, with more serious consequences if behaviour continues.
What this means for the house:
Strikes are a formal warning under the Big Brother Mzansi conduct system.
Further violations could lead to heavier penalties or, in extreme cases, disqualification from the game.
Critics and advocates alike have applauded Big Brother for acting on the footage, but many continue to demand even stronger accountability and protections for marginalised housemates. Meanwhile, a petition calling for Thandeka’s eviction from the house, garnered 28,862 signatures.
One Response
Thandeka should be evicted together with Ramona.