US-BASED comedian Long John claims South African Grammy-winning composer and producer, Lebogang “Lebo M” Morake, called him a “self-hating negro” and “wannabe comedian”. The 32-year-old, who was born Learnmore Jonasi, is facing a US$20 million lawsuit from Lebo M for misrepresentation, defamation and cultural misappropriation. It is related to the producer’s chant “Nants’ Ingonyama.” The chant is closely associated with film productions such as The Lion King, which Long John used in one of his shows, much to Lebo M’s chagrin.
Despite being slapped with a US$20 million lawsuit in a California court for alleged “damaging misrepresentations, defamatory conduct and unlawful commercial exploitation,” Long John remains defiant. In a video posted on X, Long John vowed not to bow to pressure from the creative community and comedy lovers around the world. “I didn’t think I was going to record this video, but the situation is getting out of hand,” Long John said.
“I have just come here to explain the context of what happened. I chose to dismiss the composer of the ‘Lion King’ chant. “When this man first approached me saying I was disrespecting his work, I told him I was actually a big fan and was even ready to create a video with him.
[paywall]
“Personally, I didn’t know that it had a deeper meaning, but the moment he called me a ‘self-hating negro,’ everything changed for me.” Long John said he later realised there was no room for engagement with Lebo M. “I realised that I was not having a conversation with somebody who actually wanted to do this thing together, this person was literally attacking my character.” The Chimanimani-born comedian said one minute of Lebo M’s chant eclipsed his two-hour show. “I told him to go watch my two-hour show on African culture and identity, but he didn’t care.
[/paywall]
All Zim News – Bringing you the latest news and updates.
