JOHANNESBURG -It was going to be a fact-finding tell all.
But Mel Viljoen cut short an interview with eNCA senior reporter Silindelo Sebata, leaving questions unanswered about her controversial return.
The former Real Housewives personality is back in South Africa after her ‘voluntary deportation’ from the United States.
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Viljoen and her husband, Peet, were arrested in Florida on 10 March 2026 for allegedly stealing groceries from a supermarket.
Moments before she walked out of the interview, Viljoen explained her version of events.
The reality TV star says the incident stemmed from a payment issue after her bank card declined multiple times.
The interview also revisited the Tammy Taylor controversy, where the celebrity couple was involved in legal disputes over the wrongful use of the franchise name.
“To this day, I have not been convicted of any crimes. My husband has not been convicted of any crimes. And I spoke to a lot of lawyers, and they say just because someone felt like their business didn't work out, doesn't make me a criminal,” she said.
According to Viljoen, the couple's move to the United States was driven by plans to expand their nail franchising business and develop their own products.
She dismissed claims that she and her husband had ‘fled’ South Africa, adding that Peet had also planned to practice law in the US.
As eNCA continued to press Viljoen for answers, the reality alum eventually indicated she would not continue the interview, saying she felt ambushed, bringing the conversation to an abrupt end.