Showmax and Laugh Africa recently revealed that the South African politician Helen Zille will take the hot seat in the 2025 roast. The former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, who is known for her bold opinions and fearless approach and is no stranger to public scrutiny, will be stepping right into the fire willingly.
Only the brave can take up the challenge of being roasted live on TV, but Helen oozes confidence, and she can do it. “People do it behind my back, so why not let them do it to my face?” remarked Helen.
Laugh Africa Comedy Festival creative director, Stuart Taylor, said, “Selecting the right roastee is a science – it’s the fine line between a cock-up and a laugh-up, and no one walks that line quite like Helen Zille. She is a heavyweight in politics, and she’s also a lady, so we will handle her with care.”
Helen’s appearance is expected to draw curiosity and interest from both the roasters and the audience. Love her or loathe her, she brings a “say-it-like-it-is” candour that is compelling and hard to ignore. From her infamous rendition of Brenda Fassie’s Vuli Ndlela to her unfiltered approach, Helen doesn’t hold back.
“I say it like it is, and I get roasted on social media and in the press all the time – so why not put it on the main stage? If people are going to laugh, I’d rather join them, showing Africa that I can dish it out as much as I take it – all under the umbrella of fun and banter,” Helen said.
With a jam-packed line-up, the upcoming roast promises to bring comedy in its purest form, with a big side helping of politics and opinions served hot. One can expect outrageous punchlines, wild comebacks, unfiltered truths, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments. Nothing is off the table.
Executive Head of Content Strategy at Showmax, Tracy-Ann Van Rooyen, said: “At Showmax, we’re not afraid to stir the pot – and the Roast is the perfect place to do it. Helen Zille is bold, outspoken and exactly the kind of personality that makes for an unforgettable Roast. We’re thrilled to bring audiences another wildly entertaining event of sharp wit and fearless comedy.”
Also see: Helen Zille’s Vuli Ndlela performance sent social media into a frenzy
