Prime Video, Trevor Noah & BBCS’s Blue Rapid prep ‘LOL’ as first South African original

Hitoshi Matsumoto Presents Documental

Amazon Prime Video has partnered with Trevor Noah to launch its first South African original, with a remake of hit format LOL: Last One Laughing to be produced by BBC Studios-owned Rapid Blue.

The six-parter will debut in early 2024 and features 10 local comedians as they attempt not to smile while simultaneously trying to make their fellow competitors laugh. The winner wins a cash prize for they charity of choice.

The format is an adaptation of the Japanese Amazon original Hitoshi Matsumoto Presents Documental, which was produced by and starred host Matsumoto.

It has since become a key franchise for Prime Video and proven popular in numerous markets, including France, Italy and Australia, where it was fronted by Rebel Wilson. A Nigerian version was ordered last year.

The show also plays into the franchise strategy outlined by the streamer’s international chief James Farrell during his keynote at Series Mania last week and follows last year’s expansion of the Prime Video team in South Africa.

Noah, who recently stepped down as host from The Daily Show, said he was “excited to be back home to host Prime Video’s first South African Original… and to have a chance to connect with my home audience.

“I am equally delighted for the opportunity to be working alongside my fellow home-grown comedy stars on a show that not only entertains but gives back to the South African production and charity communities.”