The widening financial controversy surrounding actress and producer Lala Tuku has shifted focus to her family, drawing significant public attention.
Tuku, who serves as the SABC’s Head of Content, and a number of senior executives were recently placed on precautionary suspension after numerous complaints from the cast and crew of Pimville, many expressing their anger over delays in receiving their salaries.
The program, which features Gail Mabalane and Keke Mphuti among others, has experienced issues since its launch in February 2026. Bakwena Productions, responsible for the show, had initially promised a significant advancement in local television but has since faced backlash due to allegations of financial mismanagement and non-payment.
Thapelo Mokoena, who portrayed Kenneth Tumagole, was unexpectedly removed from the series during its sixth episode.
As the situation develops, discontented online users have directed their attention at Tuku’s daughter, model and content creator Adonis. Observant netizens have delved into social media to reveal images and videos showcasing her remarkably extravagant lifestyle.
This contrast between her luxurious existence and the plight of unpaid actors has sparked further outrage on social media, bringing significant attention to the family’s circumstances while the production company grapples with the escalating crisis. Below are some comments that emerged.
Burnerburnerac5 noted:
“Lala Tuku was taking flights on flights to go to UCT to hold her daughter’s hand after a test, just ’cause she had a little anxiety attack instead of focusing on her work. Her daughter also takes flights to JHB just to get some basic braids, then back. Investigate them very well.
“Adonis Tuku, Lala Tuku’s daughter, was living it up in Cape Town while South African actors don’t get paid.”
sibongilenduna commented:
“Arrest the mother and the kids; all of them belong in jail.”
Kgothatsoxo expressed indignation:
“Actors and actresses are starving and retiring without getting acting gigs while their money is funding spoiled kids to fly just to do their hair? Sies, what a horrible family.”
TANKISO_Mthi claimed:
“She recently bought her a R60 000 TV.”
Source: Instagram
Kagiso Modupe distances himself from Pimville issue
Amid the growing scandal, actor, producer, and Bakwena Productions co-owner, Kagiso Modupe distanced himself from the payment situation.
Briefly News reported that Modupe stated he had no role in the financial matters of the production company, despite claims that he had also raised his concerns.
As reported by DailySUN, Modupe had discussed the payment delays with Lala but claimed no steps were taken and he was advised to “stay in his lane.” He noted that many individuals associated with the company had not received their payments.
“We are now at a point where actors are not paid, crew are not paid, suppliers are not paid, and I myself have not been paid as a head director.”
Modupe explained that he was removed from his executive position and appointed as the head director, and he was not involved in salary decisions. Meanwhile, the SABC has confirmed it is working with Bakwena Productions during an internal investigation to find a way forward.
The national broadcaster has issued a public statement asserting that it has met all financial obligations and pointed out that the production company is in breach of contract.
This payment controversy follows similar allegations of non-payment related to other projects from Bakwena Productions, including Pound 4 Pound.
