The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, recently met up with veteran comedian Leon Schuster. The politician shared with the public that the beloved entertainer will soon be honoured with an award.
Also see: Gayton McKenzie approves R3 million funding for SA Hockey teams following backlash
Gayton McKenzie hangs with Leon Schuster
The Patriotic Alliance leader took to his X account on 5 August 2026, sharing a video of himself with Leon and Leon’s longtime on-screen acting buddy, Alfred Ntombela, at the comedian’s home.
“It was such a privilege and a joy to spend time with the legends,” wrote Gayton. “They both gave us so much over careers that made everyone happy and feel uniquely South African. Later this month we honour Leon with a special award.”
The minister did not provide further details about the award.
The bubbly trio reminisced about the pranks Leon pulled over the past few decades, with Leon sharing his favourite one—the ‘talking’ chicken. Need we say more?
Gayton also asked Alfred about his funniest moment or project, to which he replied Sweet ‘n Short. The 1991 film highlights the sociopolitical differences between the old apartheid South Africa and the new egalitarian South Africa.
It was such a privilege and a joy to spend time with the legends that are Leon Schuster and Alfred Ntombela at Leon’s home today. They both gave us so much over careers that made everyone happy and feel uniquely South African. Later this month we honour Leon with a special award. pic.twitter.com/KJkWs1f23B
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) August 5, 2026
Also see: Leon Schuster gets nationwide love as fans rally amid health concerns
What happened to Leon Schuster?
It has been a while since South Africans saw the comedy star on their screens.
The Mr Bones star briefly stepped away from the entertainment scene following multiple back surgeries sustained while filming in 2023. During his recovery process, his mobility was reduced, leaving him temporarily bedridden. The fall left not only a physical impact but a mental impact, too, as Leon admitted to suffering from depression and loneliness.
While he may not be starring in any upcoming movies or TV shows, Leon reentered the music scene with a song dedicated to Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus, Miljoene Hande Vir Rassie. The track was released on 20 June 2026 to celebrate Rassie’s success with the South African national rugby team.
Also see: Leon Schuster’s life and career retold in 5-part documentary
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