South African media personality DJ Warras (real name Warrick Stock) has weighed in on the heated backlash against the “Open Chats Podcast” after its hosts made derogatory remarks about the Coloured community.
The podcast came under fire recently when a clip containing offensive stereotypes went viral.
The remarks have been widely condemned, prompting an apology from the hosts – but not everyone is convinced it’s enough.
Taking to X, Warras slammed both the comments and the apology, calling it “offensive” and questioning the team’s PR strategy.
“Jesus (laughing), the apology is offensive (laughing). F***** hell. Who’s in charge of PR there? Moer,” he wrote.
“I don’t hate these bras. I like them. I’m the biggest supporter of unfiltered, unapologetic talent… But there are basic broadcast guidelines one must follow to avoid making ignorant blanket comments about an entire race of people.”
“Like? Come on, man. Let me go there and tell them … I’ll sort them out with free advice. Maybe it will help.”
When a follower suggested the podcasters needed his guidance, Warras agreed, saying no one was explaining why their comments were wrong.
“They just: ‘Say sorry and move on.’ No. It can’t work. Destroying them is also not the answer… Rather, let’s set them straight – use it as a teachable moment. Who’s in charge there? I’ll go there. Is it MacG’s lyties?”
In a statement, the “Open Chats Podcast” apologised, insisting the comments were never intended to harm or disrespect the coloured community.
“We acknowledge the hurt caused … The intention was never to cause harm or disrespect,” the statement read, adding that the offending clip has been removed and future discussions will address the controversy.
The apology, however, hasn’t satisfied everyone. The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has since opened criminal charges against the hosts, with spokesperson Liam Jacobs personally delivering the complaint to the Brooklyn police station in Pretoria on Wednesday, August 6.
The PA’s legal team has labelled the apology “legally and morally insufficient” and is demanding stronger action. The party plans to:
- File a formal complaint with the SABC, urging a review of its broadcast contract with the podcast.
- Pursue proceedings in the Equality Court for unlawful discrimination.
- Complain to YouTube to have the episode removed entirely.
As the debate rages on, Warras maintains that education, not cancellation, should be the first step – but for many, the damage has already been done.
