Rosie Motene Seeks Default Judgment Against Podcast Trio for Defamation

Former Generations actress and gender activist Rosie Motene has moved to seek a default judgment against the hosts of the “Podcast and Chill with MacG” show, following their failure to respond to her defamation lawsuit. Motene’s legal action against the podcast’s team centers on derogatory remarks made by comedian Mongenzi “Tol A$$ Mo” Mahlangu during a December 2022 episode.

Motene’s lawsuit, filed in the Joburg High Court, demands an apology and R200,000 in damages from Mahlangu, MacGyver “MacG” Mukwevho, Thandubuntu “Sol” Phenduka, and Duduzile Methula. Mahlangu, who made the controversial statements, is defendant number one, while MacG, Phenduka, and Methula are defendants two, three, and four, respectively.

Mahlangu is the only defendant who has filed a motion of notice to defend the lawsuit, which his lawyers submitted. However, the other three defendants have not responded to the summons. According to Motene’s court documents, the summons were served to MacG on August 14, 2023; to Phenduka on August 16, 2023; and to Methula on August 14, 2023. The deadline for these defendants to respond expired on August 28 for MacG and Methula, and August 30 for Phenduka.

Motene’s legal team argues that the failure of MacG, Phenduka, and Methula to respond to the lawsuit justifies a default judgment. This legal move follows Mahlangu’s previous statements, which Motene alleges were defamatory. During the podcast episode in question, Mahlangu referred to Motene using derogatory terms such as “Koo beans” and “Satan’s child,” accusing her of pressuring the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to pursue charges against him.

Motene contends that Mahlangu’s comments were intended to damage her reputation and dignity, alleging that they falsely implied she had unlawfully influenced the NPA. The actress claims this defamatory behavior has significantly harmed her standing and caused her emotional distress, thus justifying the financial compensation she seeks.

In addition to the monetary damages, Motene is requesting the court to issue an injunction requiring Mahlangu to publicly apologize. She also seeks an order for MacG, Phenduka, and Methula to issue a joint apology for airing the defamatory statements. The apology should specifically acknowledge the broadcast of Mahlangu’s harmful remarks and express regret for the damage caused to Motene.

Motene’s legal action highlights the broader issues of accountability and the impact of public statements on individuals’ reputations. The outcome of the default judgment request will determine if the podcast trio will be held liable for their part in disseminating the defamatory content, as well as if they will be required to make a formal apology and provide financial restitution.