THATO pours cold water on the speculations surrounding her break up with Gash1.
Reality TV star, real name Thato Immaculate Mthombeni (33), has called it quits with her husband Brandon "Gash1" Mthombeni (30) after three years of marriage and she's setting the record straight about what led to the split.
Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) account, Thato made it clear that the split was not caused by infidelity, shutting down online speculation and rumours.
"Just to clear things up. It was not infidelity," she wrote.
The bubbly dancer, who stole Mzansi's hearts on Big Brother Mzansi Season 3 in 2022, broke the news in an emotional statement that has left her fans heartbroken.
"After three years of marriage, Gashwan Brandon Mthombeni and I are no longer together. Following incidents that happened the past few days that are irreconcilable by my standards and values, I have made the decision to walk away," she wrote.
Thato and Gash1's love story started in the famous Big Brother Mzansi house in 2022, where sparks flew between the two housemates. Their romance blossomed after Gash1's eviction, with the couple reuniting and taking their relationship to the next level outside the house.
Mzansi fell in love with their relationship, calling them "relationship goals" as they shared their journey on social media and their YouTube channel.
The couple tied the knot after lobola negotiations, joining their two families together.
Thato proudly became Thato Mthombeni and the couple later welcomed a baby boy together.
During her time in the Big Brother house, Thato earned the title "Minister of Fun" after creating a viral dance that had the whole country moving. Her energy and dance moves made her a fan favourite and she continued to build her brand after leaving the show.
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The talented dancer and choreographer later opened her own studio and gym in November 2022, showing her business savvy and determination to succeed.
"I respectfully ask that this does not turn into a Thato vs Gash1 battle. We met, fell in love, tried building a family to the best of our abilities. For me, I am heartbroken, but I need to soldier on and continue working," she said.
The reality star said their families have met to discuss matters and she has made it clear this is her final decision.
Despite the heartbreak, Thato is standing firm on her decision to walk away.
"I would have never wanted to raise my child alone. However, I have always maintained that there are certain non-negotiables I cannot compromise on, no matter how insignificant to the next person. I will not betray myself, I never have and I am not going to start now," she said.
She thanked her supporters for their love and understanding, adding that she will not be commenting further as Gash1 remains the father of her kid.
"Moving forward, it will just be me and my baby, and I am fully focused on building a healthy, happy future for us," said Thato.
Mzansi is sending love and strength to the brave reality star as she faces this new chapter.
