- Charlene Fakoury issued a formal statement on 17 October 2026 after gossip account SA_gossiplab linked her to DJ Shimza
- Fakoury pushed back hard against being labelled a 'hookupgirl', stating she is in her own relationship
- The statement also revealed details about Shimza's long-term relationship with ANC member Athi Geleba, sparking questions online
Source: Instagram
Charlene Fakoury is not taking the rumours lying down. Days after a gossip account alleged she had been getting cosy with DJ Shimza at two Johannesburg venues, Fakoury fired back with a formal written statement flatly denying any romantic involvement with the popular DJ.
The claims originated on 17 October 2026, when X account @SA_gossiplab alleged that Shimza and Fakoury had been spotted leaving Celavi together and seen at Tightline on a Thursday. The post raised eyebrows by referencing Shimza's 13-year relationship with Athi Geleba, questioning whether there was more to their outings than socialising.
Charlene hits back
In her statement, signed simply as "Charlene," Fakoury categorically denied any romantic involvement with the man in question. She argued that being present in the same social environment is not grounds for the kind of assumptions being made. She also pushed back against the "hookupgirl" label, calling it degrading to her dignity, and confirmed she is currently in her own relationship.
Fakoury also expressed admiration for Athi and concern about the timing of the allegations, describing the period as "politically sensitive." She demanded the publication be retracted and reserved her legal rights should the false allegations continue to circulate.
Shimza's relationship under spotlight
Fakoury's statement brought added attention to Shimza's long-standing relationship with Athi Geleba, an ANC member. Fakoury noted her respect for Athi and her family, and her concern for the impact these rumours could have on them.
Source: Instagram
The post set X alight, with users weighing in on everything from whether the wedding was private to comparisons with other celebrity drama.
@Xoli_MaDlamini said: "Yes. Not everything has to make it to public spaces."
@MasefelaE drew a pointed parallel: "Reminds me of when B issued a statement about AKA."
@she_JD14 asked: "Shimza is married? 🤔 Was it a private wedding?"
@LeburuMiya1yd weighed in: "Yes, he lobollad privately."
@Priscill_Thato quipped: "Is he using the girl's surname 🤔?" before adding a string of crying-laughing emojis.
Shimza lands at prestigious list
In a previous report from Briefly News, Shimza has landed at number 75 on the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2026 list, joining Black Coffee as South African stars dominate the global dance music rankings.
Source: Briefly News
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