Johannesburg – Lexi van Niekerk, famously known as Lexi Van from Big Brother Mzansi, has confirmed her split from Mandla Hlatshwayo, the winner of the show's first season, bringing an end to a relationship that spanned over a decade.
The couple, who first connected in 2014 during their time on the reality TV show, share two young sons. Their relationship became a national talking point, particularly due to their infamous shower scene on Big Brother Mzansi and the subsequent Mzansi Magic spin-off series that chronicled their lives together.
The news of their separation was confirmed by Lexi Van herself on X, where she addressed the end of her long-term partnership with Mandla Hlatshwayo, the father of her children.
In a candid post, the influencer stated, "I think I’ll always love my ex." When a follower inquired if she was still "in love" with Mandla, Lexi responded with a simple, "Nope."
Despite this, she showed appreciation for a tweet that read: "Your love story was beautiful. I’m still Mandlexi and Lexified though. Wish you both well. May you find peace and healing, Lexi."
Speculation about the state of their relationship had been circulating earlier this month, fuelled by a cryptic tweet from Lexi Van's account.
She wrote: "FINALLY walking away from something that you THOUGHT would work out. Investing every ounce of self, hope, and belief, and then getting disrespected, lied to, gaslit, and betrayed, is prob the most f**ked up thing I’ve endured in a long while. But let me gather my crazy self and heal."
Adding further to the speculation, she followed up with another tweet stating: "574 weeks. I’m done!"
According to reports and fan speculation, a heated argument between the pair during an Instagram Live session may have been a contributing factor to the split. Allegedly, Lexi accused Mandla of failing to provide adequate financial support for the family.
Where is Mandla Now?
Since his victory on Big Brother Mzansi S1, Mandla Hlatshwayo has maintained a relatively low profile.
According to a report in Sunday World, Mandla is currently involved in a business that focuses on buying, repairing, and selling second-hand cars.
Balancing his entrepreneurial endeavours with his responsibilities as a full-time father, Mandla stated: "I do aspire to be in the media space, but it was never part of the plan. As much as I don’t want to be out there in public, I have to do anything to make sure my kids get everything that they need."
Cryptic Messages and Confirmations
The end of their relationship was initially hinted at through cryptic messages shared by both parties.
Mandla's posts included the line, "Almost went out like Flabba," referencing the tragic death of rapper Flabba, who was stabbed by his partner, Sindiwe Manqela. He also added, "There were red flags from the start, but I'm glad we gave it a shot," on social media.
Lexi's message, as previously mentioned, spoke of betrayal and disrespect. Mandla later confirmed the split to ZiMoja, stating: "Things happen; I just prefer not to elaborate. It's not an attention-seeking publicity stunt."
