In a poignant moment at Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s funeral on August 17, popular gospel artist Dr. Rebecca Malope experienced an unexpected stumble while performing. The service, held at the Durban International Convention Centre, was a solemn occasion attended by various artists and dignitaries to honor the late broadcaster, who passed away on August 12 from lung cancer.
A video of Malope’s fall quickly went viral on social media platform X, shared by user @shad_myshadz. The footage shows Malope appearing to trip over her dress during her performance, prompting a mix of reactions from viewers online.
The video sparked divided opinions. Some users expressed concern for Malope, wondering if she had been injured. Others speculated whether the stumble might have been part of her performance style.
User @khumodinake questioned, “Was that a genuine fall or part of the act?” indicating uncertainty over whether the incident was accidental or intentional.
Among the varied responses, @BonisiweMkhize6 voiced concern, stating, “Hope she didn’t get injured shame.” Meanwhile, @Mbeh27 responded with empathy, “Awww mama bakithi. At first glance I thought it’s part of the signature performance fall!”
Others reflected on Malope’s past performances, with @Jonowelele noting, “We’re used to her falling and crawling, so?” and @DrQabaka humorously suggesting, “Tripped by the spirit.”https://twitter.com/shad_myshadz/status/1824774604524491231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1824774604524491231%7Ctwgr%5Efde70e440ac54bf14903cfe65fe421b1663f6899%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fnews365.co.za%2Frebecca-malope-falls%2F
There were also playful interpretations of the fall. @tumiwmj joked, “I was convinced she was singing ‘Ya wa lembewu’,” while @nthabeeMo compared the stumble to a “Lundi signature fall.”
@BrendaChaukeS pointed out, “She tripped on her dress guys. Mara ka gore ke sis Ribs, it blended in seamlessly,” acknowledging that the fall appeared to be a result of her dress rather than a staged act.
Conversely, @Mfoka_Jobe questioned the authenticity of the fall, asking, “We can’t even trust if she was falling or if something was stuck, and who is that aunt calling her now? Is that an Engel from heaven?”
The incident highlighted both the unpredictable nature of live performances and the diverse ways in which audiences interpret such moments. Despite the mixed reactions, it is clear that Dr. Rebecca Malope’s presence at the memorial for Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was significant and touched many.