Pearl Thusi has become a renowned figure in the South African entertainment industry, having achieved a distinguished career as an activist, model, and presenter. Born on May 13, 1988, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the 35-year-old celebrity has also received international recognition for her outstanding work.
A Promise to Succeed: The Challenging Childhood
Raised by her father, Bhekizizwe Thusi, Pearl lost her mother during her teenage years. The eldest of three siblings, she had a difficult childhood, witnessing her mother’s abuse at the hands of her father. As a result, she made a promise never to marry a black man, believing they were the problem. However, she later realized that not all black men are abusers and rescinded her statement.
Education and the Pursuit of Dramatic Arts
Pearl Thusi studied for a B.A. in Dramatic Arts at the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. However, as her career began to flourish, she paused her studies, eventually returning to complete her degree.
From Modeling to Acting: The Rising Star
At 15 years old, Pearl was the runner-up in the Miss South Africa Teens pageant, which marked the beginning of her career in the entertainment industry. She then ventured into modeling, appearing in advertisements, music videos, and local and international shows. Between 2011 and 2016, she presented on Live Amp, a music program on SABC1, and briefly worked on Real Goboza. Pearl made her acting debut in the BBC/HBO comedy-drama series, The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, and has since appeared in various films and series. She gained international attention for her performance as the titular character in Netflix’s Queen Sono.
Pearl’s Personal Life: Relationships and Motherhood
Pearl has been linked to notable South African celebrities, including sports news anchor Walter Mokoena, rapper Da Les, Quinton Jones, Robert Marawa, and Serge Ibaka. Currently, she keeps her relationship status private. Pearl is the proud mother of two daughters, Thandolwethu Mokoena, her biological child with Walter Mokoena, and Okuhle Thusi, whom she adopted in 2019. Despite the end of her relationship with Mokoena, they remain on good terms and co-parent their daughter.
Best Friends Forever: Pearl Thusi and DJ Zinhle
In 2022, rumors circulated that Pearl and DJ Zinhle were no longer friends after a clip of Zinhle allegedly snubbing Pearl went viral. However, both Pearl and Zinhle dismissed the rumors, insisting that there was no bad blood between them.
An Impressive Net Worth and a Bright Future
Pearl Thusi has an estimated net worth of $1.8 million, thanks to her success in the entertainment industry, including acting, modeling, and presenting. She has worked hard to earn her fortune, and South Africans are proud of her for representing their country on international platforms.
As Pearl Thusi continues to captivate audiences in Mzansi and beyond, her star only promises to shine brighter. With her dedication and undeniable talent, she has undoubtedly made a significant impact in the world of entertainment.