Latest news with #Faizon
Eyewitness News
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Eyewitness News
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.
News24
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
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. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laugh Africa Comedy Festival (@laughafricacomfest) 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. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laugh Africa Comedy Festival (@laughafricacomfest) 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.
