South African comedian Trevor Noah has been awarded Europe’s prestigious Erasmus Prize, becoming the first comic to receive the honor since Charlie Chaplin in 1965.
The prize, named after Dutch philosopher and humanist scholar Desiderius Erasmus, is given annually to a person or institution that has made an exceptional contribution to the humanities, social sciences, or arts in Europe and beyond.
Noah was selected by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation for his inspired contribution to the theme “In Praise of Folly,” named after Erasmus’ most famous book.
The Foundation praised Noah’s astute reflections on issues ranging from politics to social criticism and COVID-19, describing him as upholding the “Erasmian Spirit” with his sharp-minded, mocking yet inclusive political comedy.
The award comes with a cash prize of €150,000 ($159,000), which will undoubtedly be a fitting recognition for Noah’s seven-year stint as host of The Daily Show.
Noting that Noah’s tenure coincided with Donald Trump’s presidency, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, the Foundation hailed the comedian for infusing a highly polarized media landscape with a breath of fresh air.
Noah’s work as a comedian has garnered a young, diverse, and global audience, the Foundation said in a statement.
He has infused a highly polarized media landscape with a breath of fresh air. Noah’s time on The Daily Show is undoubtedly a significant milestone in his career, and he has received widespread recognition for his work in the entertainment industry.
Noah announced in September that he was leaving The Daily Show after seven years as host and officially signed off in December.
He has since been busy with several projects, including signing a book deal with publisher One World.
The new project, described as a “gorgeously illustrated and moving modern fable for readers of all ages about forgiveness, acceptance, and the secret to solidarity,” is expected to be a hit with his global audience.
Noah’s Erasmus Prize is a significant milestone for the comedian and the entertainment industry.
It signifies the growing recognition of comedy as a form of social commentary and an essential tool for raising awareness about critical issues.
Noah’s contribution to political satire and social criticism has paved the way for future comedians to follow in his footsteps and create a platform for their voices to be heard.