South African actor Ontshiametse Molekoa, widely recognized for his captivating portrayal of Pharaoh in the award-winning telenovela *The River*, has revealed that he is recovering from severe burn injuries following a freak kitchen accident.
On Tuesday, 28 October 2025, Molekoa took to Instagram to share details of the horrifying incident and his emotional journey toward healing. The actor explained that he suffered burns to his face and hand after a mishap involving hot cooking oil. His heartfelt post sparked an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
“The accident with hot cooking oil has left my face burnt, and I’m struggling to come to terms with the impact it will have on my career,” Molekoa wrote in a deeply personal message. The actor’s words reflected not only the physical pain he is enduring but also the emotional toll of facing potential challenges in an industry where appearances often play a critical role.
Celebrities including Warren Masemola, Rorisang Mohapi, and Cassius Mailula flooded Molekoa’s comment section with messages of encouragement and solidarity. Many fans expressed heartbreak over the actor’s ordeal, praising his courage and wishing him a full and speedy recovery.
Molekoa’s emotional revelation has opened up conversations around the unseen struggles faced by performers behind the camera. While *The River* viewers know him for his powerful on-screen presence, the actor’s vulnerability off-screen has resonated deeply with South Africans. His willingness to share such a personal and painful experience has reminded many that even public figures are not immune to life’s unpredictable challenges.
Industry colleagues and fans alike have described Molekoa as a talented, disciplined, and humble performer. Having won hearts through his gripping role in *The River*, his injury has left many concerned about the impact on his future projects. However, supporters remain hopeful that his resilience and determination will see him make a strong comeback once he has fully healed.
The incident has also reignited discussions about home safety and the dangers of cooking oil accidents — which can occur in a matter of seconds and lead to lasting injuries. Medical professionals urge anyone handling hot oil to exercise extreme caution and keep safety measures, such as first-aid kits and burn ointments, close at hand.
Despite the trauma, Molekoa’s post conveyed gratitude toward those who have stood by him during this difficult time. “I’m taking it one day at a time and trusting God through this healing process,” he shared.
As Ontshiametse Molekoa continues his recovery journey, his fans remain steadfast in their support, flooding social media with messages of love, prayers, and well-wishes. His bravery in speaking out serves as a powerful reminder that healing takes both time and hope — and that even in the face of adversity, strength and faith can light the way forward.
About the Author
