Pearl Mbewe apologises after describing how she nearly contracted HIV from actor Sello Maake KaNcube after too much tlof tlof

Businesswoman Pearl Mbewe has publicly apologised to her family following her explosive revelation about her estranged husband, renowned actor Sello Maake KaNcube, and his HIV status.

Mbewe took to social media to express her regret, stating: “I genuinely apologise to my family, my children, true friends and all those I may have disappointed! We all fall and tumble along the way. The truth shall set all of us free!”

Her apology comes after she disclosed sensitive information regarding KaNcube’s health to Sunday World, claiming that a doctor informed her that the actor’s viral load was approximately 7,000 and his CD4 count was 200. This revelation raised significant concerns not just about their marital discord but also about the complexities of HIV disclosure.

Mbewe further claimed that the doctor had warned her about the risks of contracting HIV if unprotected sex continued.

“My test results once more came back negative, and his came back positive again. The doctor told him that if he did not begin treatment immediately, he would get so sick and possibly die,” she stated, adding that they had used protection since the alarming diagnosis.

In response to the allegations, KaNcube has threatened legal action for defamation, framing the situation within a broader context of preserving the African family unit. He remarked, “I will stand by the African family unit… I am aware of the defamatory statements made about me and I am proceeding with legal action in this regard.”

The couple, who married in a lobola ceremony in 2021, have reportedly been living separately since July 2023. KaNcube revealed to the publication that he had been enduring “a life of hell” in the marriage, stating, “I tried to make this marriage work in fear that people will judge me… I have never been a problem in my marriage. My wife has been the problem.”

Mbewe's admission sparked public debate on social media, with some condemning her for disclosing KaNcube’s health status, while others highlighted the need to destigmatise HIV. Activist Karabo Magagane commented, “HIV can be well managed and prevented in a marriage. One partner cannot be a victim and the other a villain as disease management requires a joint approach.”

The ongoing tension between Mbewe and KaNcube has escalated further, with Mbewe reportedly obtaining a protection order against her husband. In a statement, KaNcube dismissed the situation, saying, “I think my wife is more dramatic than I am. She acts better than me who is an actor.”

Amidst the turmoil, the couple's material possessions have also become a point of contention. KaNcube has reportedly repossessed a Mercedes-Benz he gifted to Mbewe, giving it to his son instead. Sources indicate that Mbewe feels entitled to a share of his assets, particularly given her contributions to his business dealings. However, the car was not registered in her name.

When questioned about the car, KaNcube stated, “A divorce is a private matter and I won't comment about the car issue.” Mbewe has remained unavailable for comment on the matter.

As the couple's divorce proceedings unfold, KaNcube has noted that hostility often accompanies such situations. “The fact that parties are at loggerheads in divorce proceedings is, however, not justification for unlawful conduct resulting in attempts to defame and slander the other remains unlawful,” he added.