Former Skeem Saam actress Pebetsi Matlaila has opened up about the toughest period of her life, revealing that she and her two children have been staying in a shelter after being evicted from their rental home due to financial struggles.
In an emotional Instagram video shared on Wednesday, Pebetsi explained that she had been struggling to pay rent for several months. Though her mother tried to help, it wasn’t enough, and eventually, the landlord forced them to leave.
She admitted that she had been taking on small jobs to make ends meet, but it wasn’t enough to sustain her family.
Despite the hardship, Pebetsi found a safe place for her and her children at a women and children’s safety house.
“Me and my children are at a shelter. A woman and children safety house. We feel safe here. Everything is provided for,” she shared.
The actress also spoke about how emotionally overwhelming the situation has been for her.
“I was losing it. Probably having a nervous breakdown. I shouldn’t have come on social media, but I had to accept my situation and also drive my own narrative.”
She confessed that she had been struggling alone, with no one to talk to.
“I haven’t slept in two nights. When my children were sleeping, I was weeping all night. And yesterday [Tuesday] was my crashing point. Throughout the day I had no one to talk to, no one. All I needed was someone to hear me out. But at the end of the day, everyone has their own problems to deal with, and I didn’t want to burden anyone with mine.”
Pebetsi’s honest and heartbreaking video touched many people, leading to an outpouring of support, job opportunities, and financial assistance.
She shared how things have quickly started turning around for her:
“I did not just get a job to sustain my children. I got a job that will also give me a car. I didn’t expect that. I cannot believe how things are turning around for me.”
Her children are also receiving the psychological help they need, which has brought her some relief.
Pebetsi expressed her deep gratitude for everyone who stepped in to help her during this difficult time.
“Words cannot begin to explain how grateful I am for the love, the gifts (laptop to do online work and sponsors to print more books), and the financial help offered by some of you. I won’t mention names because I was asked to keep them anonymous.”
She assured her supporters that every contribution, no matter how small, made a huge difference in helping her family get back on their feet.
“But please know that no matter how little or big the E-wallet, Cash Sends were, they helped more than you can imagine. I will save that which I can to contribute to our new home soon.”
As she continues to rebuild her life, Pebetsi announced that she will be taking a break from social media to reflect and give thanks.
“I will go on a sabbatical (fast in thanksgiving), which means I will be offline for some time. But those who have my numbers know where to find me.”
Skeem Saam actress has revealed that she is now homeless and currently staying in a shelter with her children. pic.twitter.com/QpCe1GLcPL
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) March 27, 2025
