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Jozi was roaring with laughter this past Saturday as South Africa’s premier comedic talent descended on The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City for the 13th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards.
If there’s one thing we know about the local comedy scene, it’s that it operates exactly like a brilliantly dysfunctional family, which made this year’s theme, A Family Affair, spot on. Nobody holds back on the punchlines, everyone has a role to play, and the drama is always served with a side of absolute hilarity.
South Africa’s first family of comedy (The Goliath Family) held things down as the hosts for the evening. Jason, Donovan, Nicholas, and Kate Goliath brought their signature chemistry to the stage, making the packed theatre feel like one giant, rowdy living room.
The night was packed with nothing but the best in South African comedy from iconic roasts to standing ovations and some genuinely unforgettable acceptance speeches, proving exactly why South African comedy continues to punch above its weight on the global stage.
The big winners
The coveted Waldo trophies found homes with some very deserving recipients this year. Standout moments included Dillan Oliphant bagging two massive awards, Comedian of the Year and Best Solo Show for Masekind, and industry heavyweight David Kau taking home the prestigious Legacy Award, cementing his place in the history books.
Here is the full list of who took home a Waldo at the 2026 awards:
- Comedian of the Year: Dillan Oliphant
- Headliner of the Year: Celeste Ntuli
- Best Solo Show: Dillan Oliphant (Masekind)
- The Legacy Award: David Kau
- Savanna Newcomer Award: Rae Du Plooy
- Breakthrough Act of the Year: Linde Sibanda
- Innovative Comedy Performance: Conrad Koch & Chester Missing
- Comedic Content Award: Vafa Naraghi
- Beyond the Mic Award: Kagiso Lediga (for his voice work as young Rafiki in The Lion King)
- Best Comedy Festival or Show: Ground Culture Comedy
- Joe Mafela Award: Siya Seya
- Best Friend of Comedy: Yaaseen Barnes
The future of funny
Savanna Premium Cider, now the official owners of the awards, reaffirmed their commitment to the local scene. Kayla Hendricks, Savanna’s Marketing Communications Manager, noted that taking ownership was a natural next step to help the industry grow, thrive, and celebrate excellence at the highest level.
Where to watch
If you missed out on the live action at Gold Reef City, don't sweat it. You can catch the official show special, packed with all the highlights, backstage antics, and family drama, when it airs on e.tv on Thursday, 13 June at 21:45.
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