Celebrities Living Openly As LGBTQ+

They don't hide who they are

By ZAlebs | 05.11.2021 | Top of The Last Updated On 31.03.2026

Celebrities Living Openly As LGBTQ+
Although the topic is still controversial in some circles, there are SAn celebrities who have chosen to walk boldly in their truth and be who they really are. 

1. Lasizwe Dambuza 

You are obviously not surprised by this one. The social media personality is very vocal about his sexuality. He has said before that he realised he was gay at the age of 15, and was recently declared EFF’s President for the LGBTQI in the 2021 municipal elections.

2. Somizi Mhlongo

Somizi is another celebrity who is openly gay, and does not tolerate homophobia. He recently went to war with a Zimbabwean church for cancelling his gig because of his sexual orientation. He is very passionate about the liberation of all LGBTQI+ people in Africa, and got married to his now-estranged husband Mohale Motaung on 30th January 2020.

3. Mohale Motaung

This radio presenter is well known as Somizi’s ex-bae. He is recently divorced after he accused Somizi of domestic abuse, and was caught ‘flirting’ with fellow presenter Tshego Koke. He had a vacation post-divorce in Mpumalanga, and it was everything we dream of.

4. Thandiswa Mazwai

Although the singer keeps her personal life largely private, she is open about being in a relationship with a woman, and in the past organised the Amandla Womxn Fest, at which no cisgender men were allowed.

5. Bujy Bikwa

This TV and radio presenter is loudly queer. He has a podcast called The Queer Way Of Life With Bujy, on which he discusses all matters LGBTQI+ and homophobia.

6. Aaron Moloisi

The talkshow host shocked fans when he came out as gay by unveiling his bae on social media. Luckily, people have been largely supportive of the radio personality.

7. Letoya Makhene-Pulumo

Former Generations:The Legacy star, Letoya, has also been unapologetically herself. She is married to her beautiful wife Lebo Pulumo-Makhene. And yes, you saw that right. They took each other’s names. How cute is that? 🥰

Read also: Letoya and Lebo Stalked And Robbed 

8. Simphiwe Dana 

The 41 year old Jazz musician recently came out as a lesbian, and after a long silence, finally revealed her bae. She is in a loving relationship with Pumeza Matshikiza, and has two children from a past relationship.

9. Sade Giliberti

The actor and TV presenter is very openly gay, and has been labelled cutest couple together with her lady Chane. She is also passionate about ending bullying, and is a vocal mental health activist.

Honorable mention: Brenda Fassie 

Although she is no longer with us, the talented songbird impacted many people’s lives, and was a particularly great icon for LGBTQI+ people in South Africa. Seventeen years after her departure, she is still fondly remembered, not just for her timeless music, but also for her courage to be herself at a time when people were shunned, bullied and ostracized for their sexual orientation. 
Written by Editorial Team

The ZAlebs editorial team brings you the latest in South African celebrity news, entertainment, music and lifestyle. We cover the stories Mzansi is talking about with speed, accuracy and a finger firmly on the pulse of local pop culture.

Published on 05.11.2021
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