Cape Argus

Tol Ass Mo apologises for ‘black women’ remark during his separation

- BERNELEE VOLLMER bernelee.vollmer@inl.co.za

SCORES of fans were thrilled about Tol Ass Mo and Mome Mahlangu’s reconcilia­tion.

This developmen­t came five months after the comedian, also known as Mongezi Mahlangu, publicly declared the dissolutio­n of his marriage with Mome.

In the past, Tol Ass Mo stirred up controvers­y with a comment that caught the attention of Mzansi.

During an episode of Showmax's Unfollowed, he stated: “We’re separated and we’re in the process of filing for divorce. I mean, people grow. We grew apart. We went through so many different struggles in our relationsh­ip.”

But fans and his detractors were gobsmacked when Mo added: “I am f ****** traumatise­d. Traumatise­d by black women”.

The South African comedian is now ready to make things right and released a statement: “It is with great regret that I acknowledg­e the hurtful and confusing statements made during this period, including my alleged disparagem­ent of black women.

“I want to make it unequivoca­lly clear that such comments do not reflect my beliefs or values.

“The person who made those statements was not the person I recognise as myself, but rather a manifestat­ion of the illness and the disorienti­ng circumstan­ces I was in.

“This statement is an appeal for understand­ing and, I hope, forgivenes­s. I recognise my behaviour, influenced as it was by my mental health struggles and trauma, caused significan­t distress and disappoint­ment.

“For this, I am truly sorry. My commitment is to healing and to making amends to those I have wronged.

“I am dedicated to regaining the trust and respect of my community, acknowledg­ing this will require time and demonstrat­ed change on my part.

“In closing, I strongly urge for our people to be self-aware, confront mental health issues and never give up.

“Let us treat ourselves with kindness and be wary of deceptive behaviours as we cannot fully understand the impact thereof and the depth of another’s pain.

“I am earnestly working towards becoming a better version of myself, one I can be proud of and who contribute­s positively to the fabric of our society.

“Therapy, prayer and the support of my immediate family was what brought me out of my loss of self. I will forever be grateful for the gift of life presented to me.”

Mo’s statement shows how mental health issues can impact one’s emotions and actions.

Stand-up comedian Glen Bo commented: “Bro there’s a whole community of comedians who will be there for you. Self included, don’t be afraid to reach out. It’s ironic I can’t even follow my own advice. I can empathise …”

DJ Sbu also commented: “I love you, bro.”

 ?? Instagram ?? TOL Ass Mo attributes hurtful remark to distress after his break-up. |
Instagram TOL Ass Mo attributes hurtful remark to distress after his break-up. |

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