Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane crowned Comedian of the Year at 11th Savanna Comics' Choice Awards

15 April 2024 - 11:34
By Joy Mphande
Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane was named Comedian of the Year at the Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards in Joburg on Saturday.
Image: Instagram Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane was named Comedian of the Year at the Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards in Joburg on Saturday.

Mpho “Popps” Modikoane walked away as Comedian of the Year at the 11th annual Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards. 

The award ceremony, in partnership with Savanna Premium Cider, Mrs Ball’s, LIFT, Comedy Central and One-eyed Jack, took place on Saturday at the Lyric Theatre in Johannesburg.

Mpho, who was the evening’s host, opened the show with infectious enthusiasm, highlighting South Africa’s recent triumphs on the global and local stages with shout-outs to the likes of Tyla and Dricus du Plessis.

His set included a perfect blend of Popps comedy and appreciation for the country's unique sense of humour, setting the stage for a night as patriotic as it was amusing.

After the awards show, Mpho took to his timeline showing his Waldo trophy.

“I thank everyone who has been sending me congratulatory messages. But most importantly, I would like to thank my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, thank you to God and thank you to my ancestors for protecting me. Thank you to my comrades in comedy. These are voted for by all the comedians in the industry and to get this nod from my comrades means a lot. This means so much to me thank you,” he said. 

Watch the video below:

As the curtain fell, Popps invited all winners for a final photo op.

Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane, Vafa Naraghi, Sifiso Nene and others win big at the 11th annual Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards.
Image: Supplied Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane, Vafa Naraghi, Sifiso Nene and others win big at the 11th annual Savanna Comics' Choice Comedy Awards.

This year's winners:

  • Breakthrough Act of the Year Award: Vafa Naraghi;
  • 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 presented by Mrs Ball’s: Vafa Naraghi;
  • Best Solo Show Award: Sifiso Nene for Baby Mama Drama; and
  • Headliner of the Year Award: Robby Collins.