During a recent episode of the popular talent reality show airing on Startimes Remo TV and Remo Plus, Motif unleashed a scathing critique on a contestant's vocal performance, delivering the now-viral line.
“Voice haiko ready for this audition bro, tuonane next time.” He is heard saying.
The moment, which was captured during rehearsals, left not only the contestant but also the audience and fellow judges stunned into silence.
The clip has since gone viral across TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), sparking thousands of reactions, duets, memes,
Motif, known for his sharp musical instincts and production credits, has quickly emerged as Next Super Star’s most feared judge.
Sitting alongside rapper King Kaka and gospel singer Size 8, Motif brings an unapologetically raw energy to the panel — a style that divides opinion but keeps viewers hooked.
The now-famous "Voice haiko ready" remark wasn't the only hard-hitting line he dropped.
In the same episode, he questioned another contestant’s charisma saying.
“At least work on your charisma, manzee. Uache kusimama hapo still.”
And to another stunned performer: “Huyu alikuwa serious? Hizo ni nini hizo? Hapa hatuko drama!”
Kenyans online have been quick to react, with some praising Motif for telling it like it is, and others accusing him of being unnecessarily harsh.
“Huyu ni Motif anafanyia wenzake Injustice,” one viewer commented while another commented, “That’s not mentorship, that’s mockery.”
Many have begun comparing Motif to Judge Ian Mbugua, the famously blunt judge from Tusker Project Fame, who became a cultural symbol of tough love in Kenyan entertainment.
With Next Super Star heading into the elimination phase on June 14th, contestants are under intense pressure to impress not just the audience, but Motif, whose words now carry viral weight.
Startimes Head of PR and Content Syndication, Myke Mwai, affirmed that the show is staying true to its mission.
“Next Super Star is here to identify and nurture real talent. It’s not just entertainment — it’s a platform for youth to showcase their craft at the highest level, we stand behind all our judges, including Motif, and we believe honest feedback is part of the growth process.” said Mwai.
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