Culture Craze
Lasizwe Dambuza Breaks Silence on Fallout with Brother Lungile
Lasizwe Speaks Out After Private Story Leak
What began as a quiet vent on a private Instagram story has turned into one of the most talked-about celebrity family dramas of the week.
South African YouTuber and reality star Lasizwe Dambuza has confirmed that he and his older brother, Lungile Mcunu, are not currently speaking, but he insists the rift has nothing to do with money.
For years, the brothers have been a beloved duo online, known for their comic timing and chemistry. So when a post circulated on X (formerly Twitter) claiming that Lungile demanded over R1 million from Lasizwe for an episode of his hit YouTube series Awkward Dates, fans were quick to speculate about a financial fallout.
The post, shared by user @qhamadlula, alleged that the show generated over R2 million in revenue and that Lungile had been underpaid at just R100 000. The thread sparked a storm of public debate, but Lasizwe has now set the record straight.
“It’s Not About Money”
In a statement originally posted to his Instagram Close Friends list, which was later leaked publicly, Lasizwe revealed the real reason for the tension.
“Yes, my brother and I are not on speaking terms for now,” he wrote. “But it’s not about Awkward Dates or money. I chose to walk away from our family taxi business, and that hurt him because he’s passionate about continuing our late father’s legacy.”
Lasizwe explained that he simply chose a different path. “This time, I’m being selfish and choosing what works for me. Social media is my world, and it fulfils me. I just wish he could respect that.”
The YouTuber also expressed disappointment that his private story had been leaked. “My Close Friends wasn’t meant for headlines. It was a moment between me and people I trust, but ke… I’m not angry. Just tired.”
Fans Weigh In
Once the story broke, fans and followers flooded social media with reactions. Some sided with Lungile, arguing that he had helped build Lasizwe’s brand.
“Lungile carried those shows, man he deserves a bigger bag,” one user wrote.
Others defended Lasizwe, saying family and business rarely mix well. “Working with family can be draining. Stick to your lane, Lasizwe,” another post read.
The situation also reignited discussions around how South African creators manage revenue splits and collaborations, especially when working with family or friends.
Apparently, Lasizwe and Lungile don’t get along. Kuthiwa uLungile wants to be paid a million plus for his episode of Awkward Date which made over R2 million plus in revenue. My tomato sauce says Lungile was paid R100k odd rands. Now the brothers don’t get along.
Prosper 𝕏 (@qhamadlula_) October 13, 2025
A Year of Challenges
For Lasizwe, 2025 has been a year of highs and lows. The YouTube star has been candid about his struggles with mental health, public scrutiny, and creative burnout. Earlier this year, he made headlines for a public fallout with content creator Dominic Zaca.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of the latest drama, Lasizwe posted, “I prayed for peace, but I didn’t know it came with distance. I’m exhausted. But I’m still here.”
Despite the chaos, he remains one of South Africa’s most recognisable digital personalities, continuing to create content and connect with millions online.
My Close Friends wasn’t meant for headlines. It was a moment between me and the people I trust 😔💔 but ke…
I’m not angry. Just tired. Like this year it was uDominic ngapha… Now it’s these rumours?
I prayed for peace but didn’t know it came with distance.
I’m exhausted. But… https://t.co/kiNK6K30pD
Lasizwe (@lasizwe) October 14, 2025
Family, Fame, and Boundaries
The Dambuza brothers have long been fan favourites, ever since their early YouTube sketches charmed the internet. Their sibling bond became part of Lasizwe’s brand: the big brother teasing, the shared laughs, and the authenticity that audiences adored.
Now, that bond has hit a pause. But if Lasizwe’s words are anything to go by, this might not be the end, just a time of distance. In the world of fame and family, boundaries can blur fast. For Lasizwe, stepping away from legacy to find peace might just be the kind of growing up that fame doesn’t always allow.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Bona Magazine
