In just a few days, Helen Zille will step into the hot seat as the next high-profile roastee at the 2025 Showmax Roast. Known for her unapologetically bold opinions and fearless approach to public life, Zille is no stranger to controversy. This time, however, she’s embracing the roast, willing to take on the comedy barbs head-on.
As she prepares for what’s sure to be a fiery experience, Zille reflects, “People roast me behind my back all the time, so why not let them do it to my face?” With her trademark confidence, Zille is ready for the jokes, jabs, and unfiltered banter.
The 2025 Showmax Roast is shaping up to be the biggest yet, with an all-star line-up of comedians and panellists ready to bring their A-game. According to Stuart Taylor, creative director of the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival, “Selecting the right roastee is a delicate art – it’s about balancing the perfect mix of chaos and comedy. And no one does that better than Helen Zille. She’s a political powerhouse, but she’s also a woman who knows how to hold her own. We’re going to roast her with care and plenty of laughs.”
Zille’s appearance is sure to captivate both the roasters and the audience. Whether people love her or loathe her, her “say-it-like-it-is” attitude is impossible to ignore. From her infamous rendition of Brenda Fassie’s Vuli Ndlela to her unapologetic social media presence, Zille has long been a target for both praise and criticism. But rather than shy away, she’s leaning into the fun. “I get roasted on social media all the time. If people are going to laugh, I might as well laugh with them,” she says. “I can dish it out just as much as I can take it – all in the name of good-natured fun.”
The upcoming Roast will deliver comedy at its finest, mixing politics, sharp opinions, and plenty of outrageous humour. Expect wild punchlines, quick comebacks, and unfiltered truths. No topic is off-limits, and with Zille at the centre of it all, it promises to be a truly unforgettable event.
Tracy-Ann Van Rooyen, Executive Head of Content Strategy at Showmax, adds, “Helen Zille is one of those rare personalities who isn’t afraid to stir the pot. She’s bold, outspoken, and totally fearless – exactly the kind of personality that makes for an unforgettable roast. We’re beyond excited to bring her to the stage and can’t wait for the laughs that are sure to follow.”
Deon Cole to Headline the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival
Adding even more firepower to the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival, Deon Cole will headline the event. Known for his deadpan delivery and observational humour, Cole is a major force in the comedy world. With iconic roles on Black-ish and Grown-ish, where he portrays the eccentric Charlie Telphy, Cole’s razor-sharp wit and relatable storytelling have made him a household name.
Hailing from Chicago’s South Side, Cole’s background plays a huge role in his unique comedic perspective. His no-holds-barred style promises to have audiences roaring with laughter as he brings his sharp wit to the main stage.
With Zille at the heart of the Roast and Deon Cole bringing his comedy genius to the festival, the 2025 Laugh Africa Comedy Festival is set to deliver a show like no other.
Get ready for a night of unforgettable comedy, sizzling roast moments, and laughs that will leave you in stitches.
