Deon Cole. Picture: X
American actor and comedian Deon Cole has been making steady progress following a medical emergency last week.
Deon, best known for his role on the American sit-com Black-ish was invited to headline the eagerly anticipated Laugh Africa Comedy Festival, which took place in Sandton, Johannesburg, this past Saturday and Sunday.
The event is described as the largest comedy festival on the planet and welcomes international talent while celebrating homegrown rising stars.
On Wednesday, the organisers announced his withdrawal from the event but provided limited information on what the cause was. Meanwhile, he was replaced with another legendary American comedian, Faizon Love.
IMPORTANT FESTIVAL UPDATE:
Our thoughts are with Deon Cole for a swift recovery following his unexpected medical emergency. While we’re saddened he won’t be joining us on May 3-4, the show must go on! The LACF team is working tirelessly to bring you another incredible headliner pic.twitter.com/5A1JqPHcSa— Laugh Africa Comedy Festival (@LaughAfricaCom) April 28, 2025
The actor has since taken to social media to provide his followers with an update on the state of his health.
In a post containing pictures of him covered in medical equipment, he confirmed that he was doing much better and was thankful for the healthcare he received.
“Finally on the road to recovery,” he wrote.
“God is a great God, I praise him and thank him for his love, grace and mercy. I want to thank all the doctors, nurses (sisters) and staff here in South Africa at Christiaan Barnard hospital and my doctor in the states, Thank you.”
The actor later also thanked the BET network and the cast and crew of Average Joe for deciding to delay production to give him time to recover.
“Sorry to the African Laugh Festival I was scheduled to headline, thanks for your understanding and support (I’ll make it next year),” he concluded.
Also see: Deon Cole Headlines Laugh Africa Comedy Festival