A heartwarming video of a grandson’s playful antics with his grandmother has captivated the nation, turning a simple family moment into a viral sensation. Kenny Mc’Vital, real name Tshiamo Kenneth Oliphant, and his 83-year-old gogo, Martha Mothata, from Bloemfontein’s Rocklands township, are now household names after their TikTok clip exploded online and aired on SABC 2’s Morning Live.
Kenny, a 27-year-old musician, grew up in the township alongside his gogo, who turns 84 in April and is the mother of his father. Both Bloemfontein natives, their bond shines through everyday joy. “What I did was what I’m used to doing without any cameras,” Kenny shared. “On that day, I just decided to capture that moment… but the whole country loved it.”
The clip’s charm led to an unexpected SABC feature.
“It felt very happy, and mind you, I didn’t know SABC was going to play our video live,” Kenny recalled. “I saw people posting on social media, and I checked it and showed Magogo. She was so happy.
”Gogo Martha added, “My grandson surprised me. he played it on YouTube, acting like it’s happening in that moment, but he told me it was live in the morning. I was so happy.”
Martha’s laughter stole the show. “What got me was, I didn’t expect him in the first video to imitate radio presenters,” she said. “If you could see my reaction, you’d see.”
Kenny’s bubbly personality, evident since childhood, has always lit up her life.
“My grandson has always been a bubbly child from a young age. He has always loved entertainment,” she noted
As an artist, Kenny sees the video reviving his career. Nearly giving up in September 2025—“I felt stuck, and people were unfollowing me”—he now gains fans and love. “I’ve gained a couple of fans for my music though… I hope people learn that family matters and small things make people happy, especially if they genuinely love you.” Lesedi FM invited them for an interview post-viral, sparking radio dreams.
The duo visited Lesego FM a week later and saw bigger horizons. “I know he hopes for us to make TV appearances and have our own reality show or movie,” Gogo said.
Kenny hopes his wishes come true, with fans sending gifts like flowers. They’re approaching businesses for sponsorships toward a movie, reality show, and a radio slot.
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