Trevor Noah, a South African comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actor, and former television host has won the Prestigious Erasmus Prize. Known for his comedy, The former host of The Daily Show, an American late-night talk show and satirical news program on Comedy Central is making history in South Africa. He recently won Europe’s Erasmus Prize, becoming the first comedian since Charlie Chaplin in 1965 to achieve this prestigious honor. The Praemium Erasmianum Foundation declared Noah as the recipient of the Erasmus Prize on Thursday.
“He is being honored for his remarkable contribution to the theme In Praise of Folly, a title inspired by Erasmus’ renowned book known for its humor, societal critique, and political satire.”
Praemium Erasmianum Foundation press statement
The foundation highlighted that only one comedian, Charlie Chaplin, has previously won the Erasmus Prize in its 65-year history. He won it back in 1965 when he received the award from His Highness Prince Bernhard.
Acknowledging Trevor Noah’s time as host of The Daily Show during the era of Donald Trump’s Presidency, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, the foundation commended the comedian for “his insightful commentary on these crucial matters.” They also praised him for “attracting a young, diverse, and worldwide audience and, in the process, injecting a breath of fresh air into an immensely divided media environment.”
Additionally, Noah received praise for establishing himself “in the realm of modern political satire” and evolving into “a role model for emerging talents and a promoter of comedy events across Africa.”
Facts about the Erasmus Prize and Trevor Noah
- Noah’s win of the Erasmus Prize makes him the second comedian to win it after Charlie Chaplin
- Erasmus Award is given yearly to individuals or organisations with outstanding contributions to humanities, social sciences, and arts
- The award is awarded globally through the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation
- They confirmed Trevor Noah embodies the ‘Erasmian Spirit’
The Erasmus Prize
The Erasmus Prize honors individuals or institutions annually for their remarkable contributions to humanities, social sciences, or the arts globally. The award includes a cash prize of €150,000 (R3m), granted by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation board. READ ALSO: Five fun facts about 2023 Grammy Award host Trevor Noah
It was named in honor of Desiderius Erasmus, a Dutch philosopher and humanist scholar (1466-1536). More so, it is chosen by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation. Established in 1958 by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands, this cultural institution selects successful individuals in the fields of humanities, social sciences, and the arts.
While accepting the prize on social media, Trevor Noah appreciated the warm welcome, thanking the foundation, His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, and the Royal Family. He added
“Humberto Tan, for the delightful conversation and lastly, everyone that attended last night in Amsterdam!!”
Trevor Noah on Instagram
Satirical humor by Trevor Noah
Lyn Snodgrass, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Political and Conflict Studies at Nelson Mandela University, emphasized in a 2016 article the impact of satirical humor on society. She explained in a Conversation that,
“Satirical humor might be challenging, startling, or even offensive, yet it remains crucial in a society that values freedom.”
She added, “Charlie Chaplin noted that:
‘The role of comedy is to heighten our awareness of the injustices prevailing in the society we inhabit’.”
The foundation endorsed the above sentiment, asserting that it equally applies to Trevor Noah and his body of work. Hence the decision to bestow him with the esteemed prize. Trevor Noah winning the Prestigious Erasmus Prize shows the role he has played in the art and specifically comedy industry.
Trevor Noah has garnered international recognition for his comedic contributions on multiple occasions. He received numerous nominations for and clinched multiple NAACP Image Awards for his remarkable hosting on The Daily Show. Additionally, his autobiography, Born A Crime, earned him two NAACP Image Awards. Moreover, Noah’s work has led to several Emmy Award nominations. Other wins include the MTV and Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Comedy Career of Trevor Noah
Noah started his comedy career at a young age, gaining prominence with solo shows. Some of the shows include The Daywalker (2009), Crazy Normal (2011), That’s Racist (2012), and It’s My Culture (2013).
The 39-year-old gained US recognition as the host of The Daily Show. He had a charismatic presence contributing to the success of the sho. The Daily Show earned its highest number of Emmy nominations during Noah’s tenure in 2022.
In September 2022, Noah revealed his departure from hosting “the world’s most popular satirical TV program.” He bid farewell to The Daily Show on December 8, 2022. Trevor Noah winning the Prestigious Erasmus Prize is an addition to his accolades.