Laugh Africa Comedy Festival: Deon Cole withdraws due to unexpected illness
JOHANNESBURG - Known for his standout performances as the eccentric, yet lovable Charlie Telphy, the award-winning comedian and star of Black-ish and Grown-ish , Deon Cole, has solidified himself as a comedic powerhouse in both television and film.
On Wednesday, the organisers of Laugh Africa Comedy Festival announced that Cole withdrew due to an unforeseen medical emergency.
Taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, Cole was supposed to take centre stage for an exclusive two-night headline show on Saturday and Sunday evening.
The three-day event is the largest comedy celebration on the continent, bringing together international icons, up-and-coming talent, and local legends in a range of comic genres.
On the other hand, the festival's new international headlining act will be the legendary American comedian and actor, Faizon Love.
Throughout the decades of his remarkable career, he has starred opposite Robert De Niro in Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood , Blue Crush , The Parent 'Hood, Real Husbands of Hollywood, Black-ish, and The War with Grandpa .
Faizon is most recognised for his outstanding roles in timeless films like The Perfect Christmas, Couples Retreat, Friday, Money Talks, and the Christmas favourite Elf.
Stuart Taylor, the festival's creative director, said, "Faizon brings a unique blend of sharp wit, cultural commentary, and undeniable stage presence that perfectly aligns with the spirit of the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival." "We are so thrilled to have him join the lineup."
With co-Roast Masters Trevor Gumbi and Tumi Morake, the eagerly awaited Showmax Roast of Helen Zille is one of the main attractions.
Expect performances from Felix Hlophe, Eugene Khoza, Celeste Ntuli, Nina Hastie, Angel Campey, Alan Committie, Rob Van Vuuren, Jam Jam the Comedian, Kagiso 'KG' Mokgadi, Mark Banks, Nonto R, and Robbie Collins.
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DM Steven Boykey Sidley is a professor of practice at JBS, University of Johannesburg, a partner at Bridge Capital and a columnist-at-large at Daily Maverick. His new book, It's Mine: How the Crypto Industry is Redefining Ownership, is published by Maverick451 in South Africa and Legend Times Group in the UK/EU, available now.
