Kings and Queens of Comedy Returns to Joburg with the Legends of Laughter

Mark your calendars for an unmissable night of stand-up royalty at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, on Saturday, 12 April 2025 when Kings and Queens of Comedy marks 13 seasons with a show that blends nostalgia, legacy, and fresh, fearless humour. Here’s what you need to know.

Kings & Queens of Comedy Chris Forrest — Chris Forrest

A legendary cast of comedians

A true testament to its enduring success, this year’s Joburg edition features four of the original comedians who helped launch the brand in 2012 – Darren ‘Wackhead’ Simpson, Chris Forrest, Joey Rasdien, and Angel Campey. These seasoned comics have been a mainstay on Kings and Queens of Comedy line-ups over the years, each carving their own path in an industry that has seen a massive transformation over the past decade.

These comedy heavyweights will enjoy the company of other legends, including Darren Alfred Adriaan, Annalakshmi, Muthu Murugan, Khanyisa Bunu, Tracey-Lee Oliver, and Conrad Koch & Chester Missing.

Kings & Queens of Comedy Joey Rasdien Darren Simpson — Joey Rasdien and Darren ‘Wackhead’ Simpson

13 years of Kings and Queens of Comedy

As Kings and Queens of Comedy celebrates its 13th anniversary, it’s clear that the brand has been instrumental in elevating comedy as an art form, giving a platform to both seasoned performers and rising stars, and creating a legacy that continues to shape the entertainment industry.

Reflecting on the journey of Kings and Queens of Comedy, Blu Blood co-founders Osman Osman and Shaaista Khan Osman share: “When we first started this brand 13 years ago, our vision was to create a platform that not only showcases South Africa’s best comedic talent but also brings people together through the universal language of laughter.

Year after year, we’ve seen it grow in scale and impact, and we are so proud of the diverse talent that graces our stage. This year’s edition is no exception – it’s bigger, bolder, and funnier than ever before!”