The only comedian to once win this award was Charlie Chaplin back in 1965, making Trevor Noah the second comedian in the world to win this prestigious award. It is said that Trevor Noah’s sharp-minded, mocking yet inclusive political comedy upholds the Erasmiab Spirit.
The Foundation also noted that Trevor Noah’s role as The Daily Show host coincided very well with world stories such as Covid-19, Donald Trump’s Presidency, and issues like Black Lives Matters movement. Trevor is also praised for bringing a diverse and global audience to a highly polarised media. Trevor has successfully achieved a whole lot and added a great value to his work and brand. He has also successfully managed to put together great comedy shows with his world tour.
For those who might not know what Erasmus Prize is, here is a break down;
Erasmus Prize was named after Dutch philosopher and humarist scholar, Desiderius Erasmus. He died at the age of 70 in 1536. The Praemium Erasmianum Foundation is the one that selects the Prize. The Praemium Erasmianum Foundation was founded in 1958 by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands that is active in the humanities, social services and arts fields. The award is presented annually to institutions or person that has made an exceptional contributions to humanities, social sciences or arts, in Europe or international. This award comes with a cash prize of 150000 (R2.9million)