Thando Mokoena’s Heartbreaking Tribute at DJ Warras Memorial Moves Nation to Tears

In an emotional memorial service held on December 19, 2025, at The Galleria in Sandton, Johannesburg, the South African entertainment industry bid a tearful farewell to Warrick Stock, better known as DJ Warras, the charismatic radio host, TV presenter, and podcaster tragically gunned down just days earlier.

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The service drew hundreds, including celebrities like Sizwe Dhlomo, Lerato Kganyago, DJ PH, and LootLove, alongside family and fans. Tributes celebrated Warras’s fearless voice, humor, and dedication as a father, but one unexpected moment stole the spotlight: the raw, tearful speech by Thando Mokoena, daughter of actress and former co-host Pearl Thusi.

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Thando, often called Thandolwethu, stood alongside her mother Pearl Thusi on stage, delivering words that captured the profound loss felt by those who knew Warras personally. Videos circulating online show the young woman shedding tears as she spoke, her voice breaking with grief in a tribute that resonated deeply. Many described it as the most poignant moment of the evening—a child’s unfiltered emotion cutting through the adult formalities of remembrance.

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A heartbreaking moment at DJ Warras’ memorial as Pearl …

Pearl Thusi, who co-hosted Live Amp with Warras for years, was visibly overcome during her own speech, joined by Thando for support. The pair’s shared vulnerability highlighted their long-standing connection to the late DJ, whom Pearl described as family rather than romantic, amid ongoing public speculation.

Other powerful tributes included Warras’s eldest son Ethan calling his father “my hero,” and speeches from colleagues praising his outspokenness against corruption and commitment to youth culture. His sister spoke of him belonging “to a nation,” while friends recalled his infectious energy and mentorship.

The memorial underscored the senseless tragedy of Warras’s murder on December 16 in Johannesburg’s CBD, amid his activism against building hijackings. As mourners left for a celebration of life event, Thando’s words lingered—a reminder of innocence shattered, leaving the nation collectively heartbroken yet united in honoring a man whose “roar” continues to echo.