JOHANNESBURG – Award-winning South African actress Brenda Ngxoli found herself at the centre of a weekend media storm after a video showing a heated confrontation with her mother went viral. The video, shared on Ngxoli’s Instagram account, depicts a volatile argument in what appears to be her rural Eastern Cape home, revealing a deeply troubled family dynamic.
The video shows Ngxoli, carrying her young daughter on her back, engaging in a furious exchange with her mother, who is seen wielding a stick. Ngxoli’s voice is filled with anger and frustration as she accuses her mother of physical abuse, stating: “Beat me; you are used to doing this; even the defamation of character that you keep doing, I will open a case. You have been telling people that I beat you when you are the one who wanted to hit me with a brick.”
Her mother retorts, accusing Ngxoli of neglecting her responsibilities, saying: “Expose yourself; come outside and show your face. This is who you are. I am done keeping quiet. No, it is not my responsibility to feed you; even that is abusive behaviour. I am not shouting at you; I am speaking.”
This explosive confrontation is not an isolated incident. Ngxoli, known for her powerful performances in productions like Home Affairs, Rockville, and The River, previously revealed details of a long history of family abuse and toxicity during an appearance on MacG’s Podcast and Chill last year.
She explained that she sought refuge in the Eastern Cape, hoping to find peace and tranquility away from the pressures of city life, only to find her worst nightmare unfolding within her own family. A source close to Ngxoli revealed that the actress had even extended her mother’s house to provide more space and comfort, yet the harassment continued.
The video, which Ngxoli posted as evidence of the abuse, quickly went viral, sparking widespread public discussion and concern. Ngxoli clarified that she had filmed the altercation to protect herself, and to document her mother’s ongoing abusive behaviour. She also stated her intention to pursue legal action against her mother for defamation of character, reiterating that she has never physically harmed her mother. She added a positive note, expressing gratitude for the support she received from villagers and other family members who witnessed the incident.
The incident followed a Saturday post on Ngxoli's social media showing her at the gym. She captioned the post: "I was saved from the shacks with my child whilst I was facing family issues with a newborn in hand alone. Many came to my rescue. Ndiyabulela." This hints at a broader context of struggle and resilience, underscoring the emotional toll of the situation.
In subsequent video updates, Ngxoli expressed relief at the public's outpouring of support. She shared that she had received a call informing her that her mother had falsely accused her of physical abuse while she was at home and unable to defend herself. "My mother has vehemently denied screaming that I'm beating her today and continues with her allegations," she posted, expressing gratitude for witnesses who could corroborate her account. She also appealed for help contacting the Tsomo police station.
Am trying to call Tsomo police station with no I found online. My mother is screaming I'm hitting her and I am no where near her . please call them for me or send their no. Have called family members and villagers
— Brenda Ngxoli 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦 (@Ngxoli) January 25, 2025
The public response to Ngxoli’s ordeal has been overwhelmingly supportive. A crowdfunding initiative, partially spearheaded by influencer Mandisi Tshingana, raised over R100,000 in a matter of hours, with further donations continuing to pour in.
Ferguson Films, Ngxoli's former employer, also contributed R50,000. Ngxoli, visibly moved by this show of solidarity, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating: "I have been crying all day, and there are times when I thought no one could hear my cry. But you guys have surprised me."
She also shared details of her recent work with a production company that supported her health during a challenging period, providing accommodation, a personal trainer, and weight loss treatments.
