Is Nadia Nakai's prank call to Zakes Bantwini crossing the line? Fans react

Bernelee Vollmer|Published

While intended as lighthearted fun, fans criticised the Nadia Nakai for overstepping boundaries with a married celebrity

Image: Picture: X/@sixft7latina

South African rapper Nadia Nakai is no stranger to stirring the pot, but her latest antics on her reality show "Bragga" have left fans divided.

The show, which gives viewers an inside look at Nadia’s life, her career, and her circle of friends, has built a reputation for its mix of drama, laughs and the occasional eyebrow-raising moment.

One of its signature segments involves Nakai having candid conversations with celebrities, but in a recent episode, she decided to spice things up with a prank call. 

While the idea was meant to be harmless fun, the clip was shared on X (formerly Twitter) by entertainment commentator Musa Khawula.

@TheLazySnapper said: “I find it so weird calling another woman’s husband like that, ay I was cringing the entire time (yes it’s the man’s responsibility to protect his home) but Sis Really??? hay.”

!You can see where they’re coming from; it does feel a little “crossing the line,” especially considering Bantwini is married.

But on the flip side, "Bragga" thrives on Nakai being unapologetically herself. She’s known for pushing boundaries, and some fans love that raw energy.

@RELEH_LEGODI commented on the post: “Why Zakes Bantwini, though, why is she so comfy with talking to Zakes. Something is off. Not after the recent post that say I bet on this marriage now Bragga want to be a weapon distasteful.”

@BlackLckd also wrote: “Why did it have to be Zakes Bantwini?? Why is she that comfortable to call him? Nandi should be careful here because now we know Zakes answers a call from Nadia in 0.5 seconds.”

Here’s why it can be a problem: Bantwini is married to Nandi Madida, and a lot of Mzansi viewers are protective about celebrity relationships (for some reason).

On social media, people saw Nakai calling a married man and immediately thought boundaries were being crossed. The comments show fans were cringing, worried the prank could appear disrespectful to Madida, or worse, normalise flirting or over-familiarity with someone else’s spouse. 

But here’s why it can be seen as harmless fun: Nakai’s brand has always been bold, unapologetic, and full of personality.  The prank was lighthearted, no one was seriously harmed, and Batwini seemed cool with it.

Some viewers see this as innocent entertainment, part of the unpredictable charm that keeps the show buzzing. After all, "Bragga" thrives on Nadia being funny, fearless and a little extra, even if we're not here for it.

Meanwhile, Nakaii has snagged herself a nomination for Best Celebrity Personality at the upcoming National Film & TV Awards South Africa (NFTA).