Gayton McKenzie’s Controversial SAFTA Tale Sparks Outrage in Mzansi

• The South African Film and TV awards (SAFTAS) occurred on 14 March 2026, featuring Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, as a guest.
• The politician made several appearances on stage, where his comments did not resonate well with all attendees.
• His attempts at humor at the SAFTAs were poorly received, especially after clips began circulating on social media.

The SAFTAs, held in Johannesburg, honored South African artistic talents. Minister Gayton McKenzie was present among notable figures from the entertainment sector during the yearly celebration.

When Gayton McKenzie addressed the audience during various segments at the Gallagher Convention Centre, he quickly became a focal point. One interaction that gained traction online was between him and co-host Anele Mdoda.

In a video shared by entertainment blogger Phil Mphela, McKenzie narrated a story about a friend who instigated a prison riot over the awards. He animatedly recounted his unusual experiences while incarcerated, echoing references to his past life of crime. Phil later expressed his displeasure with the minister’s presence at an event that should have celebrated creative talents. Watch the video.

In another uncomfortable moment, McKenzie discussed fashion with Anele on stage. He remarked that gay men excel in style due to their time spent in the closet. Anele responded with humor, suggesting that everyone would scrutinize his comments, hinting that Helen Zille would be analyzing his words. Watch the video of Anele and Gayton below:

Public Reaction to Gayton McKenzie at SAFTAs

The audience’s response to Gayton’s prison anecdote was largely negative, as many felt he reminded them that he is an ex-con. There was also frustration regarding the production quality of the SAFTAs. Read some responses below:

@Dlulane_BongaM shared:

“Sigh. This whole clip is cringe and wrong. Straight people are the worst. Sies.”

@DrRebrand remarked:

“He could have just taken something from their strat plan, rather be boring and formal than this clownery. Where was the comms team to prepare something for him? His interactions with Anele were cringe enough #Saftas19.”

@Tshepowfour3 expressed:

“I’m waiting for his joke to land.”

@MissPampi envisioned:

“His comms team busy drafting his apology rn.”

@ntlok6 voiced:

“I think his criminal past is minor compared to the damage he’s doing to the country, and it’s being ignored. By the time we wake up, it will be too late.”