Actress Jo-Anne Reyneke has ignited a public conversation after openly stating that the institution of marriage holds no appeal for her.
Speaking candidly on The Konvo Show with Penuel Mlotshwa, the 37-year-old star decisively shared her personal philosophy: “I don’t believe in marriage, and I don’t ever want to get married.”
The “Shadows” of Traditional Marriage
Reyneke, recently seen in Bad Influencer, explained that her staunch perspective was formed early in life after observing the unhappiness of married women around her.
She criticized the traditional power dynamics and expectations placed on women within marriage.
“All the married women were lesser than their men; they were almost shadows,” she said. She added, “Even the concept of being a bride, where you’re expected to do certain things for your husband’s family but he does nothing for yours. You’re his slave. You are bought, you have to change your last name while your surname dies out.”
Personal Choice and Past Relationships
While personally rejecting the institution, Reyneke clarified that she respects those who choose to marry and genuinely find happiness in it.
The actress was previously in a decade-long relationship with fellow actor Thami Mngqolo, which ended in 2018. Although they never married, she hinted that she once held long-term hopes for the relationship before realizing her unhappiness.
Her honest and critical take on marriage resonated widely online, receiving vocal support from many, including women who are currently married, with one supporter writing: “As a married woman, I fully support you, Ntombi!”
