A simple photo of popular Skeem Saam actor Patrick Seleka has sparked a lively debate on social media after the star was spotted inside a Jet Stores branch.

Seleka, who is widely known for playing Chef Katlego “Kat” Peterson on the hit Skeem Saam soapie on South African Broadcasting Corporation’s SABC1, trended online after a picture surfaced showing him posing for photos with store employees while visiting the retailer.
The image was shared on X by social media user @yourboishu on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, with the caption: “Skeem Saam actor Kat shopping at Jet.” What seemed like a harmless celebrity sighting quickly turned into a heated conversation, with many South Africans debating whether people in the entertainment industry should be expected to shop at high-end stores.
In the picture circulating online, Seleka appears relaxed and cheerful while taking pictures with staff members at the store, a moment that many fans described as proof that the actor remains grounded despite his fame.
Fans defend the actor
While some users questioned why a well-known actor would shop at Jet, many others rushed to defend him, pointing out that celebrities are ordinary people who can shop wherever they like.
One commenter wrote:
“There’s nothing wrong with former Skeem Saam actor Kat shopping at Jet, a celebrity is also a human being just like you! 💯 It is actually a wise decision for him because he gets to save money. Imagine trying to impress people on social media by shopping at expensive stores like Gucci and those same people won’t be there to support you when you fall.”
Another fan added:
“Very good, he must spend his money wisely. He sees what’s happening to other actors. He’s doing great.”
Some social media users also highlighted that being an actor does not automatically mean someone is wealthy.
Motlatsi Mngomezulu wrote:
“And being an actor doesn’t make him a millionaire.”
Similarly, Hobyane Glacious commented:
“Does being an actor mean they have money? The industry itself doesn’t always pay enough, and they are entitled to buy wherever they want.”
Others said they admired the fact that Seleka appeared humble and comfortable shopping at everyday stores.
“Besides that we grew up wearing Jet clothes. I like the fact that he doesn’t forget where he comes from,” wrote Bacco Bacco.
Another commenter, Jones Sekatane, added:
“He knows the value of money.”
Debate about celebrity expectations
The photo also sparked a broader conversation about how society often expects public figures to constantly display luxury lifestyles.
Princess Matjila commented:
“Jet is the best store. Pep and Ackermans included — even wealthy people shop there without hesitation.”
Sips Sips joked that people expect celebrities to only shop at expensive places, writing:
“People want him to only go to Woolworths. Leave him alone.”
Others pointed out that many high-profile celebrities are often seen wearing expensive brands only for promotional appearances.
“Celebrities don’t always buy those expensive clothes,” one user claimed. “Sometimes they borrow them for publicity and return them.”
Questions about the “former” label
Some fans were more focused on the wording used in posts describing Seleka as a “former” Skeem Saam actor.
Several commenters questioned the label, saying the actor is still part of the show.
“Why do you say ‘former’? Because he’s still acting,” wrote Zandile MaZandy Zah.
Another user added:
“He is not a former. Currently he just doesn’t have a storyline.”
Actor previously made headlines
Seleka has been in the public eye for more than just his role on Skeem Saam. In the past, the actor made headlines when he spoke publicly about his troubled marriage to his wife, Mmabaneng Seleka.
In an emotional video shared online at the time, the actor admitted that he had been emotionally abusive in the relationship and apologised to his wife, acknowledging that his actions contributed to her depression.
Despite past controversies, many fans say the recent photo shows a side of the actor that feels relatable — a celebrity who still lives an ordinary life.
As one commenter summed it up:
“You spend your money the way you like. Case closed.”
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