Pearl Thusi defends her speech at DJ Warras’ memorial service
Actress and DJ Pearl Thusi has responded after facing backlash regarding her comments at the memorial service for the late DJ Warras, which ignited considerable discussion on social media earlier this week.
Pearl faced significant criticism as clips and descriptions of her remarks began to circulate online, with many labeling her speech as inappropriate and lacking sensitivity in the context of the event.
The swift rise in criticism prompted the actress to publicly address the situation.
Pearl took to X (formerly Twitter) to acknowledge the backlash and communicate the emotional impact of the reactions on her.
“People are really cruel here. Really cruel. And I want to say your words hurt,” she stated, noting her desire for the same intensity used in criticizing her to be directed toward addressing issues that would help make South Africa safer.
She further expressed regret for anyone who felt hurt, clarifying that her emotions took precedence during a moment of vulnerability.
“I am sorry that my vulnerability in that moment offended so many of you,” Pearl commented, highlighting that she had momentarily forgotten the memorial’s audience extended beyond those who personally knew DJ Arras. She concluded her remarks by encouraging a shift in focus toward constructive conversations around meaningful change.
People are really cruel here.
Really cruel.
And I want to say your words hurt.
I hope we can put as much effort in saying hurtful things about me in finding a way to changing things so we can have a safer country.I am sorry that my vulnerability in that moment that it offended…
— Pearl Thusi (@PearlThusi) December 21, 2025
<pDespite Pearl’s apology, reactions on social media remained split.
Some users expressed sympathy for her, recognizing the heavy nature of grief, while others maintained that her remarks were inappropriate regardless of her intentions.
One user remarked that while they understood Pearl’s emotional state, she still needed to recognize the inappropriateness of her comments for that setting.
“You’re a human being, and yes you were vulnerable during that moment. But you also need to acknowledge that what you said was inappropriate and unnecessary,” the user commented.
Others voiced support for Pearl, with one user apologizing for not defending her against the backlash and emphasizing that grief is experienced differently by each individual.
“I was not offended personally. Grief comes in many ways. Please try and enjoy your Dezemba,” the user stated.
Another individual provided a more pragmatic recommendation, suggesting that public figures should exercise caution when addressing sensitive events.
They advised that speeches at funerals or memorials be pre-prepared and vetted, cautioning that speaking spontaneously in emotionally charged environments may lead to misunderstandings.
