Actress-turned-DJ Pearl Thusi recently found herself at the centre of a heated social media debate after performing alongside her daughter, Thando, at the Zeenation Fest on 9 August 2025. While the live audience cheered on the mother-daughter duo, online critics accused them of copying the signature performances of American superstar Beyoncé and her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter.
A Crowd-Pleasing Performance
The Zeenation Fest came to a standstill when Pearl invited Thando to join her on stage. The pair danced and sang to DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small’s hit Nana Thula, showcasing playful choreography and a visible bond that had many in the crowd gushing. A video posted on TikTok by user @zanele_zwane captured the moment, showing the audience erupting into cheers as the two embraced the spotlight.
For some, the moment was heartwarming and a testament to the strong connection between Pearl and her daughter. Supporters flooded social media with positive comments, praising Pearl’s parenting and Thando’s confidence. One fan wrote, “Ahh, I just love how Pearl loves her daughter,” while another added, “This is beautiful. I’m going to show my baby girl — that girl is my backup singer.”
Social Media Turns Critical
Despite the positive in-person reception, the performance quickly sparked controversy online. Critics claimed Pearl’s decision to bring Thando on stage was an imitation of Beyoncé’s inclusion of Blue Ivy in her Renaissance and Cowboy Carter tours. Since debuting Blue Ivy as part of her official lineup of dancers, Beyoncé has made the mother-daughter stage dynamic a well-known part of her brand — something some believe Pearl was trying to replicate.
Comments from detractors ranged from light-hearted jokes to outright accusations of unoriginality. One user quipped, “Beyoncé and Blue Ivy from Temu,” while another said, “It’s giving Blue Ivy and Beyoncé vibes, sanaa!” Others questioned the reasoning behind Pearl’s decision altogether, with one critic asking, “What was Pearl doing on stage with her child?”
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSSWTpTUB/
Thando in the Spotlight
This isn’t the first time Thando has made headlines. She has been increasingly visible on social media, especially after her graduation, with fans learning more about her personal life. Earlier this year, Thando made waves when a video montage of her and her boyfriend surfaced online, sparking further public interest in her private affairs.
Some social media discussions have also touched on Thando’s sexuality, following a cryptic caption she posted in one of her viral TikTok videos. While the family has not publicly addressed these rumours, the conversations highlight the growing scrutiny that comes with public exposure.
Balancing Fame and Family
Pearl Thusi has long been known for her openness about her family life, often sharing moments with Thando online. While the Zeenation Fest performance drew both praise and criticism, it underscored the challenges public figures face when involving their children in their professional lives.
For fans, the moment was a touching celebration of family love and artistry. For critics, it was an unnecessary imitation of a global superstar’s act. Regardless of the opinions, Pearl and Thando’s performance has once again solidified their place in South Africa’s entertainment conversation — proving that when it comes to the spotlight, they’re no strangers to making headlines.
About the Author
