Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, television host, and author, best known for hosting The Daily Show from 2015 to 2022. Born on February 20, 1984, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Noah's unique upbringing—being born to a black mother and a white father during apartheid—shaped much of his comedy and worldview. He has often drawn on his experiences growing up in a divided, racially complex society, offering poignant yet humorous insights into race, politics, and identity.
Noah’s stand-up comedy is known for its sharp wit, observational humor, and ability to navigate sensitive topics with nuance. He began his career in South Africa, where he gained recognition as a comedian and TV personality. His success in his home country eventually led to opportunities internationally, including appearances on major talk shows like The Tonight Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In 2011, he became the first South African comedian to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
In 2015, Trevor Noah took over as host of The Daily Show, following the departure of Jon Stewart. Under his leadership, the show continued its focus on political satire, news analysis, and comedy, but with Noah’s distinct perspective as an outsider to American culture and politics. His approach was fresh and often more global, blending humor with serious commentary on global issues, social justice, and racial inequality. During his tenure, Noah earned critical acclaim for his handling of complex political events, including the Trump presidency, racial protests, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He also wrote a memoir, Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (2016), which became a bestseller and was praised for its storytelling and depth.
Noah’s international background and ability to navigate cultural divides made him a unique voice in late-night television. While he announced his departure from The Daily Show in 2022, his influence continues through his stand-up tours, book, and ongoing media projects. He remains one of the most well-known and respected voices in comedy, and his career trajectory has solidified him as an influential cultural commentator and comedian.