What was meant to be a heartfelt farewell unexpectedly turned into a viral talking point after Pearl Thusi paid tribute to her late friend and former co-host, DJ Warras, at his memorial service. The emotional moment, intended to celebrate a close friendship and professional partnership, instead ignited widespread debate on social media, placing Pearl Thusi at the centre of an online storm.
DJ Warras, a respected radio and television personality known for his vibrant presence in the entertainment industry, was tragically shot and killed in Johannesburg on Tuesday, 16 December 2025. Days later, friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honour his life, legacy, and impact. Among those who spoke was Pearl Thusi, who shared the stage with Warras on various projects, including their time working together on Live Amp.
Taking to the podium on Friday, 19 December, Pearl Thusi reflected on the years she spent working closely with DJ Warras. She spoke warmly about their bond, describing a friendship built on mutual respect, laughter, and long hours spent hosting events and shows together. Her intention, she explained, was to highlight the closeness they shared and the trust that defined their relationship.
Pearl Thusi Pays Tribute to DJ Warras at Emotional Memorial
However, as her tribute unfolded, one personal anecdote quickly overshadowed the rest of her speech. What Pearl Thusi framed as a light-hearted memory meant to illustrate their sibling-like connection was received very differently by many watching online.
During her address, Pearl Thusi recalled an incident following a Castle Lite gig, where DJ Warras was stressed about missing an early-morning flight. According to her, he suggested that they share a hotel room so that he would not oversleep. She admitted that she initially felt uncomfortable and worried about how the situation might be perceived by others.
“I was like, ‘Friend, no,’” she explained, adding that her concern was largely about public opinion and possible misunderstandings. Pearl Thusi went on to say that DJ Warras tried to reassure her by emphasizing the platonic nature of their relationship, allegedly telling her, “You’re my son. Don’t worry, friend. We’re gonna put the pillows and everything. I just want to cuddle.”
While some mourners at the memorial reportedly laughed at the story, the reaction online was far less forgiving.
Almost immediately, social media platforms erupted with criticism directed at Pearl Thusi. Many users felt that the anecdote was inappropriate for a memorial service and accused her of oversharing intimate details that should have remained private. Others argued that the story was insensitive, particularly considering DJ Warras’ partner and family, who were also grieving.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela weighed in on X, describing the moment as “cringe and oversharing,” while also calling for balance in how public figures are criticised. He noted that while the anecdote may have been ill-judged, the intensity of the backlash highlighted how relentlessly some individuals are targeted online.
Several users echoed similar sentiments, with one commenting that some stories, no matter how innocent, should never be shared publicly. Another accused Pearl Thusi of being disrespectful, suggesting that the story crossed boundaries even though DJ Warras had passed away.
Popular media personality Sol Phenduka also reacted, posting laughing emojis in response to the circulating clip, further amplifying the moment and drawing more attention to the controversy.
Despite the backlash, not everyone felt Pearl Thusi deserved the dragging she received.
A number of social media users came to Pearl Thusi’s defence, arguing that her words were taken out of context. Supporters insisted that the story was meant to demonstrate the deep trust and platonic nature of her friendship with DJ Warras, not to shock or offend.
They pointed out that grief affects people differently and that memorial speeches are often emotional, unfiltered, and deeply personal. According to these defenders, Pearl Thusi was simply sharing a memory that, to her, symbolised the carefree and trusting nature of their bond.
For some, the controversy highlighted the harsh realities of public life, where even moments of vulnerability can be scrutinised and misunderstood. They argued that while the story may not have landed as intended, it did not warrant the level of hostility it received.
Ultimately, the incident underscores how quickly narratives can shift in the age of social media. Pearl Thusi’s tribute, meant to honour a friend she clearly cared about, became a lesson in how public perception, timing, and context can dramatically alter the meaning of even the most personal stories.