Sick Trevor Noah backs Bonang as MAMA host

Comedian Trevor Noah has explained to his fans on Facebook why he could not make it as the MTV Music Awards set to take place on Saturday. In a video he posted on Facebook on Friday, the comedian says he has been sick for a few days and taking medication.

“At some point, it’s too much medicine, and the doctors just want me to stay in bed and rest. Couldn’t do The Daily Show for one day, couldn’t fly out to South Africa, I wanted to do the show, I love doing comedy for everybody, but at some point you have to do the right things and get better.”

He further thanked fans for supporting him, saying he was aware they were disappointed that he was not going to host the event. Anyway, he says he hopes to make it up to his fans.

Read his statement below:

To all my fans and everyone who makes what I do possible:
I’ve been fighting a severe upper respiratory and ear infection this week and despite tons of medication the infection has gotten the better of me.
Due to the infection and strain on my vocal chords the doctor has ordered me to rest my voice and recover my health. I desperately wish I could dismiss the doctor but the added risk of flying means that decision would be highly irresponsible and may cause further damage.
I love the Mama’s and more importantly I love performing in my country. Myself and MTV Africa have been trying to make the Mamas a reality for a few years and I was so excited because this was finally the year where the pieces fell into place and the date was one I could do.
I push myself as hard as I can all the time because I appreciate every opportunity I am afforded in life. Unfortunately there comes a day like today when it all catches up and my body cannot do what my mind wishes I could.
I’m so sorry if I’ve disappointed you but please know that I love performing more than anything in life and so having to cancel any show, breaks my heart.
Sorry isn’t enough of a word to convey how I feel and again to all my fans I will do my utmost to make it up to you.
Kind Regards
Trevor Noah
MTVBaseAfrica #MTVMAMA2016

Noah was recently announced as the host of the MAMAs, news that got fans excited and looking forward to the event.

He trended on Twitter on Friday after MTV announced he could not make it, leaving fans wondering who would replace the comedian.

Also read: Bonang confirmed as MAMA host

After announcing that Bonang Matheba would be hosting the event, Twitter had mixed feelings about it, with most questioning how she was chosen to replace a comedian.

Most said Phat Joe should have been chosen, as he’s known for throwing shade mercilessly and his witty character. Now the event is set to be “too formal”, according to those who complained against Matheba’s announcement.

But Noah seems to think she will do a great job, and so does MTV, who implied that tickets would be sold out now that Matheba was announced as the host.

Check out some of the Twitter reactions below:

Dear Bonang, I once did a gig where people were expecting @Trevornoah – let me know if you want tips #spoileralert not my fav gig ever.

— Chris Forrest (@ChrisForrestSA) October 21, 2016

My prayers this weekend are with the #MAMAs writers who have just tearfully ditched their Trevor script and started on a Bonang draft.

— Tom Eaton (@TomEatonSA) October 21, 2016

People aren't saying they think Bonang isn't good for the job; we ALL know she'll be GREAT. Just that people were looking forward to comedy.

— Mahange F (@_FikileM) October 21, 2016

I was really craving Trevor's comic relief, yeah Bonang is a great presenter but I was wanted entertainment 😭

— Muchi (@Sipho_Says) October 21, 2016

People shouldn't act as if without Bonang there was no one else who could do it ….Scoop, PhatJoe, Tumi Morake etc are also good. #MAMAs

Read more

Earthshot Prize Awards: No shortage of chemistry and camaraderie between hosts Bonang and Billy Porter [VIDEO]

— Serendipity (@Phenomenal_Mpho) October 21, 2016

Wishing #TrevorNoah a speedy recovery it would've been good to see him,hope #Bonang does a great job also

— Views (@aCameraShyGuy2) October 21, 2016

Bonang is killing it and she's coining it💵💰💁🏽 she's min about all the noise around her.

— Robyn🌹 (@missjones_02) October 21, 2016

Bonang's great. Nothing against her. But what I'm against is the industry not wanting to discover other Bonangs. #OpenUpTheIndustry

— Pebbles (@Pebble_O) October 21, 2016

Bonang has worked very hard to be where she is, and she always delivers. She's a fitting host.

— Nodoli (@NamhlaM_) October 21, 2016

"@Bongeh_M: So you bought a ticket to the #MAMAs to see Trevor Noah ??? 😂 Congrats you played yourself. It's Bonang 😂😂" #2016Clapbacks

— Deedee (@daveo299) October 21, 2016

Someone asked if Bonang Matheba is funny… I say NO!!! But the funny thing about her is she never mind haters, she excels at all she does

— Phillix M. Kokwele (@Matome_Kay) October 21, 2016