Nota Baloyi’s US visa revoked after controversial comment about Charlie Kirk sparks backlash

Nota’s US visa revoked

Controversial South African music executive Nota Baloyi has found himself in the middle of yet another storm after reports emerged that the United States revoked his visa following remarks he made online about American political commentator Charlie Kirk.

The incident, which sparked widespread discussion across South African social media, was confirmed by SABC News correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease, who shared an update on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, 15 October 2025.

“I have identified the Twitter handle referred to in the State Department’s post. And a screenshot of the flagged post, @lavidaNOTA,” Bryce-Pease wrote.

According to reports, Nota’s visa was withdrawn after he made a controversial comment about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, who had been trending online following resurfaced clips of him expressing his views about South Africa.

The outspoken producer’s remarks didn’t sit well with many, leading to official action by US authorities. This development comes just days after comedian Trevor Noah also faced criticism for making a joke about Kirk’s death.

As the news spread, South Africans took to social media to share their mixed reactions. One user, @Nqobelo, commented, “Freedom of speech is really only freedom of speech if the speech aligns with the narrative.” Another user, @CRangataJ, wrote, “Lol, oh? He used to love mocking us from the USA as well. Maybe he can try the UK?”

Others defended Nota, calling out what they viewed as a double standard by the US government. “This guy should go to court and sue the government for victimisation, censorship, and harassment. The USA’s double standards can get sickening,” one user wrote.

Have identified the twitter handle referred to in the State Dept’s post. And screen shot of the flagged post 👇🏽 @lavidaNOTA #sabcnews https://t.co/dMXIKA80qE pic.twitter.com/d8OxxJ4LvX

— Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) October 14, 2025