South African comedy legend Marc Lottering was honoured with the Hall of Fame Award at the 2024 Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards.
This 11th edition of the awards took place at the Lyrical Theatre in Gold Reef City on Saturday, spotlighting the best of South Africa’s comedic talents.
Amongst them was South African comedy legend, Marc Lottering, who has worked in the industry for over two decades, having created three critically acclaimed musicals and over 20 hilarious one-man shows.
Lottering also boasts a Naledi Award and two Fleur de Cap Awards.
On Saturday, the legend received the Hall of Fame Award for his strides in comedy, from the ’90s until present.
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Alfred Adriaan took to the stage to hand the South African comedic genius his award.
“I wanted to be cool tonight but when you walk into this space all coolness goes because this is just amazing to be acknowledged by your peers,” said Lottering, as per The Citizen.
Accepting the award with honour, Marc also emphasised that prestigious awards should not solely define a comedian’s career. He stressed the importance of continual work and creativity regardless of accolades. When the time comes to celebrate, then do so.
“Awards cannot define your career, but when you get them, celebrate. But it shouldn’t change who you are or what you do because tomorrow you pick up your pen again, and it’s back to work.”
The ceremony was not only a significant night for Lottering, but also for other comedians who were recognised for their contributions to the field.
Vafa Narangi stood out, winning both the Breakthrough Act of the Year Award and the Sauce of the Year Award. Mpho Popps was named Comedian of the Year, while Sifiso Nene took home the Joe Mafela Award and the Best Solo Show Award for “Baby Mama Drama.”
2024 Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards winners
- Breakthrough Act of the Year Award: Vafa Narangi
- Savanna Newcomer Award: Callum Hitchcock
- Joe Mafela Award: Sifiso Nene
- Funny is Funny Award: King Price for Generating Gees
- Best Comedic Show/Festival Award: Bioscope Sundays
- Hall of Fame Award: Marc Lottering
- Best Comedic Writer Award: Kagiso Lediga
- upLiFTing Comedic Content Award: Costa Carastavrakis
- Sauce of the Year Award: Vafa Narangi
- Best Solo Show Award: Sifiso Nene for “Baby Mama Drama”
- Headliner of the Year Award: Robby Collins
- Comedian of the Year Award: Mpho “Popps” Modikoane
Compiled by Savannah Douglas
Also see: Eddie Griffin to Headline the Savanna and Showmax Laugh Africa Comedy Festival