POLL | Should we feel sorry for celebrities when they face setbacks?

28 March 2025 - 14:28 By TIMESLIVE
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Actress Pebetsi Matlaila landed a job after revealing in a social media post that she and her children were living in a shelter.
Actress Pebetsi Matlaila landed a job after revealing in a social media post that she and her children were living in a shelter.
Image: SUPPLIED

Public figures, including artists, musicians, actors and sporting stars, often find themselves in financial difficulty when contracts end, leaving them struggling to maintain their lives.

Recently, former Skeem Saam actress Pabetsi Matlaila revealed that she and her two children were living in a shelter after being evicted from their rental home due to financial difficulties.

The actress's video garnered support from her followers which saw her being called about job opportunities and getting donations. 

“I did not just get a job to sustain my children. I got a job that will also give me a car. I didn't expect that. I cannot believe how things are turning around for me.”

Questions have been raised about whether the public should feel sorry for celebrities who face challenges after their time in the spotlight. Some people empathise with public figures who have entertained and inspired them. 

In January, actress Brenda Nxoli received R100,000 from fans during a difficult time.

Many argue that celebrities should be prepared for the financial uncertainties that come with their profession and prioritise securing assets such as homes and investments to safeguard their financial stability when work dries up.


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