Reality TV star and businesswoman Brinnette Seopela's estranged husband has passed away. A source who spoke to ZiMoja says that even though Seopela was separated from her husband Samkelo Mvelase (44), she deeply cared about him and is hurt by his death.

ZiMoja has learned that Kelo, as he was affectionately known to his friend, passed away on Monday night after spending two weeks in hospital. According to a source he suffered seizures before his hospital admission. "We really thought he was going to make it through, but God had other plans," adds the source.

Samkelo Mvelase has passed away

Brinette and Kelo got married in a traditional wedding last year in July but she kicked him out of her Johannesburg home in April, eight months after their wedding. At the time, sources told ZiMoja that Brinnette was tired of her husband's partying ways. "He could not get his feet off the streets. He was always going to parties and coming home late. Brinnette also discovered that her new husband was not a businessman as he presented himself but he just hung around business people and did not have a job or an income. Brinnette could not stand that and decided to take a break from him," the source said. According to a source, Brinnette still had strong feelings for her ex-partner despite their separation and the news of his passing has left her heartbroken. "She is still shocked and heartbroken by his passing, despite their disagreements, they shared a special bond and once loved each other deeply," the source said.

The reality star was previously married to Themba Gezani, but their marriage ended just five months after their glamorous wedding amidst accusations of abuse and Brinnette's extravagant lifestyle. She gained popularity as one of the cast members of the reality TV series, Real Housewives of Johannesburg. In light of recent events, her fans and followers have been expressing their condolences and offering support during this challenging time. When ZiMoja called for comment, she said she was still with Kelo's family and handed the phone over to his elder brother Sibonelo, who confirmed the news of his passing to ZIMoja. "I won't say much, but I know he loved his family. He was a good guy and the life of the party. He was a good friend and a good brother," he concluded. Friends and associates paid tribute to Kelo. Sonia Mbele, a media personality, wrote, "I will always love and cherish the moments we shared. Farewell, my friend."