The Daily Show with Trevor Noah is where the South African comedian got his start in the US. The Daily Show is a news program that features jokes and social commentary on current events and politics.
Noah became host of The Daily Show in early 2016, so he has been leading the show for about three years as of 2018. He is one of few people of color to host a major TV show, making him a notable figure in media.
Prior to his hosting job, Noah was a comedy circuit headliner and had his own radio show. He has also written two books: Africa: A History and Born a Crime. The first is an audiobook version of this book!
This book adaptation is for young readers, likely targeting middle school students. It appears that it was published on January 1st, so it may be a new release for the reading season.
Growing up biracial
A significant portion of Trevor’s childhood was spent trying to fit in with both white and black communities. He struggled to find a place where he felt like he belonged.
He mentions how difficult it was to make friends with white children, as they would tell him that he could not play with them because of his color. When he would try to make friends with black children, they would tell him that he wasn’t black enough.
He also talks about the difficulties his mother had raising him and his sister as a single mother. She had to work several jobs just to keep the roof over their heads and food in their stomachs. This made it difficult for her to spend time with them, which caused a disconnect.
Trevor also mentions how his father never paid child support, which made things even more difficult for his mother.
Becoming a comedian
After graduating, Trevor worked in radio for a few years, and then became a presenter on a television show called The Day.
He also began doing stand-up comedy, performing at clubs and events. He learned how to craft short stories and tell jokes, how to create interesting characters and scenarios, and how to appeal to a wide audience.
His performances earned him respect in the comedy world, and he was eventually invited to perform at the prestigious Conan O’Brien Show in the US. He made such an impression that he was later offered a job as a host on the show!
Since taking over as host of The Daily Show in 2015, he has become a high-profile celebrity himself. His success has helped boost the show’s popularity, drawing more viewers every day.
Writing a book
A book can be written in many ways. Some people like to start with an outline, going through the major points of the book and then adding more details and depth as they go.
Others like to dive right in, starting with chapter one and adding more chapters as they go. Some like to do both, having an outline for the big points and adding details as they go through each chapter.
Whatever way you like to write, it is always good to have some type of organization. An outline can help with that!
Some people write books just for the pleasure of doing so, without intending to publish them. If you intend to publish your book, then you will need to consider some important things.
Filming a show
As the host of The Daily Show, Trevor regularly filmed in a studio surrounded by cameras and a small audience. He did this for a weekly show that aired every Monday night.
As the host, he had to be funny and keep the audience engaged. He also had to interview guests who were very serious. He had to balance both his humor and theirs.
As mentioned before, he had to keep up with many different topics due to the nature of the show. He had to be knowledgeable about many things- from politics to entertainment- so he could make fun of them or explain them.
The hardest part about being the host is having to keep your nerves calm, says Trevor. Sometimes you have to get really excited, but you can’t let that show because you have to remain calm and neutral so that the jokes land.
Rising to fame
After graduating, Trevor got a job at a radio station, working as a comedy writer and producer. He also did some acting, including a role in a soap opera.
He spent five years at the radio station, developing his skills and gaining notoriety. In 2009 he became the host of The Daily Show, where he continues to work today.
His tenure as host has been notable for its focus on issues affecting people of color around the world, as well as criticism of President Donald Trump and his administration. He was named Comedy Person of the Year by Time in 2017.
Noah also published an autobiography in 2014, Born to Race: A Tale of A Lonely Superchild., which tells his story from childhood to young adulthood. It was well-received by critics and made the New York Times best seller list.
Becoming an actor
After graduating, Noah decided to move to Johannesburg to try his hand at acting. It was here that he landed his first TV role in a series called Humankind.
He played the character of David, a gay man who struggled with coming out to his family. This is an issue that Noah himself has experience with — he came out when he was 17 years old.
Humankind only lasted for one season and only six episodes, but it was enough experience for him to get another job. He moved back to Cape Town and landed a leading role in a TV show called Puppet Show.
This is when he adopted the stage name Trevor Noah and started making a name for himself as an actor.
Honoring South Africa with a gold coin
In 2018, the South African Mint issued a 1-ounce gold coin commemorating 100 years of South Africa. The coin features the official flag and a dove, along with the inscription “100 Years of Democracy.”
Not only is the coin a beautiful tribute, but it also carries monetary value. Gold is always valuable, and this coin is no exception.
The beauty of art cannot be destroyed, even in times of political or social unrest. The artists that create these pieces put their heart and soul into them, and it is an honor to showcase their work on these coins.
South Africa has produced many talented artists that have brought recognition to the country through these coins.
Helping others through his charity work
In addition to his deep commitments to education and environmental sustainability, Trevor supports many other causes, including women’s rights, violence against women, and gay rights.
He’s spoken out about the importance of women’s rights several times, both in his interviews and on his show.
Trevor also supports youth homelessness and has helped donate funds to the cause. He even spent Christmas 2017 handing out gifts to homeless children with the help of a group called Angel Tree.
Throughout his career as a comedian and TV host, Trevor has given back to communities in need through his work with charities and donations. His willingness to put himself out there is what makes him such an influential figure.
