Mr Bones star Faizon Love replaces Deon Cole at Laugh Africa Comedy Festival
The Laugh Africa Comedy Festival still promises to deliver unforgettable experiences despite its headline change.
Black-ish star Deon Cole was set to headline the comedy festival, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, but withdrew due to an unforeseen medical emergency.
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The Laugh Africa Comedy Festival has now announced actor and comedian Faizon Love as the new international headliner.
Faizon Love is no stranger to South Africans.
Since his stint as the hilarious Fats Pudbedder in the local comedy film Mr Bones acting alongside legendary local comedian Leon Schuster, Faizon has captured the hearts of Mzansi and is sure to be a pleasant addition to the comedy lineup.
Best known for his standout performances in classics like Friday, the holiday hit movie Elf and audience favourites like Couples Retreat, Money Talks and The Perfect Holiday, Faizon brings decades of comedic excellence to the stage.
In a statement, Stuart Taylor, the festival's creative director, says, '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're incredibly excited to welcome him to the lineup.'
Faizon will headline the festival on Saturday, 3 May and Sunday, 4 May, closing out a weekend of unfiltered laughter and unforgettable performances.
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What to expect at the three-day festival
The festival will shine a spotlight on African comedic excellence, with performances by 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.
International acts include Griff from the U.S., Uganda's Salvado Ombokolo and Eric Lu Savali from Kenya.
One of the key highlights is the filming of the Showmax Roast of Helen Zille, featuring co-Roast Masters Tumi Morake and Trevor Gumbi.
Known for their razor-sharp wit and fearless delivery, they'll lead a powerhouse panel that includes The Real Housewives stars Londie London and Mel Viljoen, comedian Loyiso Gola, radio host Bongani Bingwa, author Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, TV presenter Rian van Heerden, singer Zwai Bala, political commentator JJ Tabane, comedian Lesego 'Coconut Kelz' Tlhabi (appearing virtually) and a surprise wildcard appearance by Patricia de Lille.
The festival is open to persons 16 years and older.
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