South Africa’s biggest comedy night lit up The Lyric Theatre as the country’s top comedic talent gathered for the 12th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards. Presented in partnership with Savanna Premium Cider, Mrs. Ball’s, One-eyed Jack, and Comedy Central, this year’s show proved that when it comes to delivering world class humour, Comics Do It Best.

Hosted by power duo Nina Hastie and Carvin H Goldstone, the show blended sharp wit, candid roasts, and heartfelt moments. From Nina’s cheeky wardrobe commentary to Carvin’s suit reveal, the evening kicked off with charm, chemistry, and just the right amount of chaos.

Show highlights included a bold parody musical performance of “Cherry Eyi’ One” by Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards winner, Vafa Naraghi and friends, turning a classic R&B love triangle into an ode to Mrs. Ball’s Chutney. Yum.

KG Mokgadi transformed the news into a comedy set that included jabs at SA politics, and refugee jokes that had the audience rolling — reminding everyone that “comics do news best.”

Mashabela Galane proved he really does it best, presenting the Joe Mafela Award after a five-minute set that reminded the audience why he’s a national treasure.

The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Award winners for 2025 are:

• Breakthrough Act of the Year Award: Khanyisa JamJam
• Best Comedy Festival or Show Award: That’s Not Funny: Moveable Feast Comedy Night
• The Eb Award, presented by Savanna Premium Cider): Khanyisile Ngwenya
• Best Solo Show Award: Robby Collins, Come As You Are Tour
• Innovative Comedy Performance Award: Céline Tshika
• Sauce of the Year Award, presented by Mrs. Ball’s: Noko Mashaba
• Joe Mafela Award: King Flat
• Headliner of the Year Award: Robby Collins
• Winners’ Choice Award: Sifiso Nene
• Comedian of the Year Award: Celeste Ntuli

Long-time presenting partner Savanna Premium Cider once again reaffirmed its commitment to local comedy. “Twelve years of backing the boldest punchlines in the land – and we’re still laughing (and crying… from laughing),” says Kayla Hendricks, Marketing Communication Manager – Savanna Premium Cider.

“We truly believe in the power of humour to unite South Africans, shine a light on life’s absurdities, and keep the national gees alive – one dry joke and crisp cider at a time. It’s an honour to be more than a sponsor, but a proud custodian of comedy culture in SA. Here’s to another year of comedy gold, unforgettable one-liners, and helping the next generation of comedic legends take the mic.”

Joining the fray for a third year, Mrs. Ball’s added a spicy twist to the proceedings Sauce of the Year category. Alongside One-eyed Jack and Comedy Central, the partners helped bring to life an unforgettable evening that honoured ten winners with the iconic Waldo trophy, including renaming the 2025 Newcomer Category to “The Eb Award, presented by Savanna Premium Cider” a heartfelt tribute to the late comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane, who won the award in that category in 2016. The moment drew emotional applause and underscored the deep respect within the comedy community.

For those who missed the event or want to relive the best moments, the official show special will air on Comedy Central on 26 & 31 May at 9pm respectively. Keep an eye on the Awards’ social media for updates.

Follow #SavannaCCA on social media for updates and highlights from this unforgettable night!

The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards are in partnership with Savanna Premium Cider, Mrs. Ball’s and Comedy Central. The Awards are produced by the award-winning team at One-eyed Jack.

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For media inquiries or more information, contact:
Laurell Kok at laurell@one-eyedjack.co.za or on +27 7611 20670