Ben Voss is a multi-award-winning South African actor, comedian, writer, playwright and satirist, recognised for intelligent comedy that combines sharp social observation, character work and distinctly South African storytelling.
Voss began his professional performing career after leaving a career in engineering. Alongside Spud author John van de Ruit, he created and performed the hugely successful Green Mamba and Black Mamba, followed by Mamba Republic. The productions toured internationally and earned major South African theatre honours.
He is particularly well known for his outrageous alter ego Beauty Ramapelepele, a character through whom he explores South African politics, business, culture and social issues. Beauty became a familiar presence on South African radio, while productions including Beauty and the B.E.E. and Bend It Like Beauty toured Southern Africa and enjoyed runs at London’s Oval House Theatre.
Film & Television
Voss is also an established screen actor. He played Mr Lilly in the Spud film series alongside John Cleese and Troye Sivan, appeared in Beyond the River, and took a leading role as Eugene van As in the M-Net/Showmax drama Desert Rose. More recently, he appeared in the second season of the internationally recognised crime drama Reyka.
Current Work
His more recent stage work includes the acclaimed one-man production Becoming Benno, a humorous and personal exploration of immigration, identity, family and belonging inspired by his experience of establishing a life between South Africa and Australia. The production toured South Africa and Australia and received an Ovation Award at the 2025 National Arts Festival.
In 2024, Ben was awarded a star on the Joburg Theatre Walk of Fame in recognition of his contribution to South African theatre. His career honours include Fleur du Cap, Naledi, Ovation and Adelaide Fringe Theatre Awards.
With decades of live-performance experience, Ben is equally at home performing stand-up comedy, character comedy, theatre and corporate entertainment, bringing an intelligent, irreverent and highly engaging style to the stage.
Ideal for: Corporate Comedy • MC / Event Hosting • Gala Dinners • Awards Evenings • Theatre & Festivals • Character Entertainment
Current location note: His professional representation currently lists him in Sydney, Australia and Johannesburg, South Africa, while Ben himself has described holding residency in both Australia and South Africa.
