SUNDAY night’s episode of Mzansi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding shocked many viewers and had social media users accusing the show of promoting rape.
It was revealed that the couple met when the bride, Bavelile Mkhwanazi was just 14 and her new husband, Fanie was 28!
During the show, the former taxi driver said he used to sleep with three or four girls every day.
“After the school rush hour, I would come back with a schoolgirl and take her home. When I dropped her off, I would come back with another girl,” he said.
To top it all, Fanie (38) said he made Bavelile (23) pregnant when she was just 18 years old and proudly declared that he had three other kids with three different women.
Many viewers were shocked and took to social media.
Simphiwe Dana wrote: “So #OPW romanticised rape culture last night. I don’t watch #OPW because I find no joy in laughing at black poverty. But this is unacceptable.”
A Twitter user under the handle @Bonisile_RMS even contacted the SAPS. He wrote: “Hey @SAPoliceService, are you watching #OPW tonight? So many crimes confessed. Statutory rape, assault and damage to property.”
Nondumiso Mabece of Mzansi Magic responded on behalf of the channel and producer Connect TV, saying: “We note and acknowledge the concerns from our viewers.
“Our reality shows reflect our society as it is. In the case of this episode, the couple’s past brought up uncomfortable social issues which the family and community, who were initially against the relationship, found a way to resolve.
“As the channel, we are committed to tell stories that impact viewers and build communities while challenging society to engage in meaningful conversations, but we don’t condone any unlawful behaviour.”
