Former 'Idols SA' Star Heinz Winckler and Wife Apologise for "Overweight Comments"

Former 'Idols SA' Star Heinz Winckler and Wife Apologise for "Overweight Comments"

  • Musician-turned-pastor Heinz Winckler and his wife, Alette Winckler, have responded to the online backlash they received
  • The popular couple recently trended on social media for their comments about the overweight Christians programme
  • South Africans on social media recently commented on their public apologies on Thursday, 2 April 2026
SA reacts to Heinz Winckler and wife Alette's apologies
'Idols SA' winner Heinz Winckler and his wife Alette apologise for "overweight comments". Images: Heinz Winckler
Source: Instagram

Former Idols SA winner-turned-pastor Heinz Winckler and his wife Alette Winckler recently sparked controversy when they made claims about fat people and sin.

The musician, who is now a pastor at Lovekey Church, previously trended on social media when he began a movement inspired by Charlie Kirk.

Winckler and his wife publicly apologised over their controversial comments condemning overweight people. The singer's wife, Alette, posted a public apology on her Instagram account on Thursday, 2 April 2026. The media personality also apologised on his Facebook account this week.

"Here is a public apology from my wife and me relating to the recent article that highlighted some comments we made in our interview on the In HeinzSight BoldCast. May your Easter weekend be blessed," he captioned the post.

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In their statement, the couple said they were sorry and acknowledged that their words, specifically around sensitive topics such as health and weight, were not expressed with the care, compassion, and responsibility they deserved.

“While our intention was never to judge, shame, or hurt anyone, we recognise that the way it was communicated came across as judgemental, generalised, and, for many, deeply painful. For that, we take full responsibility,” they said.

This comes after the Wincklers spoke about the weight-loss programme, The Exodus Experience, on their podcast, Heinzsight.

The pair chatted with Lechi Kamffer, who referred to Biblical scripture to support the spiritual principles of the programme, but expressed concern that Christian leaders did not place enough emphasis on physical wellbeing.

South Africans slam the Wincklers

Rene Honeyman said:

"But why are we bodyshaming? Some things are honestly genetics and metabolism."

Bill Price reacted:

"Apologies are good, but that doesn’t mean being overweight is a good thing medically and neurologically speaking. Neuro wellness for brain biology wellness needs ratios and balance driven by self-control."

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Delene Maritz commented:

"They humiliate good and innocent people while marketing their diet products! Seems like they are following Peet and Mel Viljoen."

Coreen Fourie wrote:

"I am so glad that God does not judge by looks (thin/fat/sick), skin colour, or dress code, what you eat, or when. He only looks at your heart, your love for Him, just remember that. As simple as that. Wish more people realised that. God will lead you. Not people's opinions."

Beverley Ann Thomas responded:

"Not all overweight people are that way due to gluttony; some overweight people actually eat very little food. Often, what is eaten rather than how much plays a role, such as a sedentary lifestyle, slow metabolism, genetics, medical reasons, etc."
Heinz Winckler and wife react to the fat shaming comments backlash online
Heinz Winckler and his wife react to backlash over "Overweight Comments". Image: Heinzwinckler
Source: Twitter

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Authors:
Rae Seleme avatar

Rae Seleme (Entertainment editor) Rae Seleme is a seasoned entertainment writer who kickstarted her writing career on TVSA. She has published articles on Iharare, ZAlebs, The South African before joining Briefly News. Rae obtained her BA Media Studies degree at the University of Limpopo, a copywriting postgraduate diploma from AAA School of Advertising and a PGCE at Unisa. Email: contact@briefly.co.za