Trevor Noah, born on February 20, 1984, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a renowned comedian, television host, and author. Raised during the tumultuous era of apartheid, Trevor's early life was marked by the complexities of growing up in a racially mixed family, which profoundly influenced his comedic style and worldview.
Noah began his career in South Africa, where he quickly made a name for himself by hosting various television programs, including South Africa's music, television, and film awards, and the South African Comedy Festival. He also hosted two successful seasons of his late-night talk show, "Tonight with Trevor Noah." His bold humor and insightful commentary earned him widespread recognition.
Trevor Noah's international break came with his debut on U.S. television when he appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," followed by an appearance on "Late Show with David Letterman." He was the first South African stand-up comedian to be featured on either of these iconic American late-night shows. In 2013, his comedy special, "Trevor Noah: African American," premiered on Showtime, showcasing his unique blend of humor and cultural critique to an even broader audience.
In 2012, Trevor performed his one-man show "The Racist" at the Edinburgh Fringe, in a sold-out run that captivated audiences and critics alike. The same year saw the release of "You Laugh But It's True," a documentary that chronicled his ascent in the comedy scene of post-apartheid South Africa.
Trevor's international touring schedule has seen him perform to enthusiastic crowds at prestigious venues such as the Hammersmith Apollo in London and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. His sharp wit and engaging storytelling have led to profiles in major publications like Rolling Stone, Newsweek, and The Wall Street Journal, as well as features on CNN and NPR's "Talk of the Nation."
In 2014, Noah was nominated for "Personality of the Year" at the MTV Africa Music Awards and graced the cover of GQ South Africa, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. His career took a significant leap forward in March 2015, when Comedy Central announced him as the successor to Jon Stewart as the host of "The Daily Show," one of the most influential platforms for political and social satire on American television.
Trevor Noah's journey from the suburbs of Johannesburg to the heights of international stardom is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unique voice in comedy, making him an influential figure on the global stage.
nominated for Personality of the Year at the 2014 MTV Africa Music Awards