Trevor Noah slams Malema, Zuma, reveals SABC turned his show down

In an exclusive and rare sit-down interview with eNCA, Trevor Noah spoke to Jeremy Maggs about politics, the SABC, writing a book and his morning routine.


The Daily Show TV host has opened up about his experiences and views on living in the United States.

It’s been more than a year since Noah became an international star by taking over the reins from Jon Stewart on Comedy Central’s The Daily Show. In an exclusive interview with Jeremy Maggs in Unplugged and Plugged In, the comedian opened up about what makes great comedy, navigating politics in the US and his daily routine.

But it was really his comments on President Jacob Zuma and EFF leader Julius Malema that were particularly interesting. Noah didn’t have kind words for Zuma and Malema as he stated they were uncontrollable and had caused extreme damage. He said Mzansi had seen first-hand what happens when you put the “wrong man in the right position” and how this had “caused extreme damage, as these men could not be controlled”.

While Noah admitted to missing the humour of home, even complimenting Malema on his weight loss, the comedian made specific mention of the SABC after Maggs asked him in which country it is easier to speak the truth, and he said it was definitely easier in South Africa because that was home.

“I miss all the old boys. I miss Julius, I miss Hlaudi – I mean, I left at the wrong time … 90-10 [SABC local quota percentage] …do you know how many shows I got turned down by the SABC?”

During the interview, the 32-year-old explained: “I’d rather be kicked out of America for speaking my truth instead of not saying anything at all,” when pressed about The Black Lives movement, and admitted to being pulled over for speeding, when in fact he had not been speeding.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Jacob Zuma roasted at Stofile’s funeral

With the hotly contested American elections coming up shortly, Noah spoke candidly about Donald Trump, saying: ‘’I do not believe America will vote that way. For someone that divisive. I don’t know if America could recover if it did happen.”

And, if you’re wondering what a regular morning is for Noah, he says: “I meditate, work out and read the news.” He said he only read on his phone.

Noah will be launching a new book before the end of the year, which will focus on his life growing up in South Africa – pre- and post-apartheid, as well as on the struggles of women. It would take the form of a collection of stories from his life.

Noah’s interview will repeat from 26 to 28 August on eNCA.

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