Deon Cole Headlines the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival 2025

Deon Cole Brings His Sharp-Witted Comedy to South Africa

Hailing from the South Side of Chicago, USA, the inimitable Deon Cole will be bringing his sharp-witted, comedic, deadpan style to the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival stage.

A Comedy and Film Industry Icon

Standout Performances in TV and Film

Known for his standout performances on Black-ish and Grown-ish, where he plays the eccentric yet lovable Charlie Telphy, Cole is a massive name in the comedy and film industries. On Black-ish, his character’s quirky commentary and unpredictable behavior brought a fresh dynamic to the ensemble. He carried that same energy into Grown-ish, reprising his role as Charlie in the spin-off, where he continued to deliver laughs with his signature off-kilter wisdom.

Award-Winning Talent

Cole’s South Side upbringing has been a huge influence on his comedic perspective and storytelling style. His unique blend of deadpan delivery with observational humor has earned him a dedicated following. As both an actor and a writer, he is well-respected in the film industry and has numerous accolades to his name.

• 10-time NAACP Award winner and two-time SAG Award nominee for his work on Black-ish
• Three-time WGA Award nominee and one-time Emmy nominee for his work as a writer on Conan
• Two Emmy nominations for writing on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien
• *Host of the 2022 BET Soul Train Awards

Deon Cole: A Comedy Powerhouse

Master of the Comedy Stage

On the comedy stage, Cole brings a refreshing honesty, often drawing from personal experiences, pop culture, and everyday absurdities. His sharp comedic presence has graced some of the biggest stages in the industry, including the prestigious Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal and the Chicago Comedy Festival.

Beyond Comedy: A Lifestyle Icon

Offstage, Cole’s style and charisma have made him a lifestyle icon in his own right—effortlessly bridging the gap between comedy, culture, and cool. Whether he’s commanding a comedy club or turning heads at fashion events, he always keeps it real and hilarious.

Deon Cole on Performing in South Africa

“I love South Africa – the energy and vibe are pure magic, and I’m beyond excited to be the headline act at the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival,” says Deon Cole. “Trust me, we’re going to make some unforgettable memories together!”

Industry Leaders on Deon Cole’s Performance

Stuart Taylor, Creative Director, Laugh Africa Comedy Festival

“Deon Cole is a standout performer in modern comedy. He has cemented his reputation both in the United States and internationally, and we are thrilled to have him as our headline act at the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival this year. He’s not only one of the sharpest comedic voices of our time, but he brings a style and presence that truly resonates with our audience. We’re immensely excited to welcome him to the continent – it’s going to be an exhilarating experience!”

Tracy-Ann Van Rooyen, Executive Head of Content Strategy, Showmax

“Deon Cole is a powerhouse—effortlessly funny, wildly original, and instantly relatable. His unique comedic style has captivated audiences globally, and we’re excited to be part of bringing him to South Africa for the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival. It’s moments like these that showcase Showmax’s commitment to world-class entertainment that resonates with local audiences.”

Laugh Africa Comedy Festival: A Celebration of Laughter

The Laugh Africa Comedy Festival is a dazzling showcase of laugh-out-loud comedy, promising a weekend of side-splitting performances.

Event Details:

• 📅 Dates: Friday, 2 May to Sunday, 4 May 2025
• 📍 Location: Sandton Convention Centre
• 🎤 Performances:
  • Deon Cole’s two-night international headline act
  • Five other comedy shows featuring a variety of comedic styles
  • The Roast of a well-known personality (identity to be revealed soon!)

Get Your Tickets Now!

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable comedy experience! Secure your ticket to laughter at:

👉 www.ticketpro.co.za
👉 www.laugh-africa.com