Celeste Ntuli is one of South Africa’s most celebrated comedians and actresses, affectionately known as the “Queen of Zulu Comedy.” Bold, authentic and unapologetically funny, Celeste has built an exceptional career through her sharp observational humour, powerful storytelling and ability to turn everyday South African experiences into unforgettable comedy.
Originally from Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal, Celeste began performing comedy in 2005. Her national breakthrough came in 2009 when she reached the top three of the second season of SABC1’s So You Think You’re Funny!, helping launch her career as a full-time professional comedian.
A trailblazer for women in South African stand-up, Celeste became the first local female comedian to record a one-woman comedy show DVD, Seriously, Celeste. Her subsequent solo productions have reinforced her reputation as a formidable live performer, including the successful Home Affairs shows.
Celeste has appeared on many of South Africa’s leading comedy platforms, including Blacks Only, Stand Up Zulu, the Johannesburg International Comedy Festival and Comedy Central productions. Her comedy has also reached international audiences, including a sold-out performance at London’s Leicester Square Theatre in 2022.
In 2022, she joined some of South Africa’s leading comedians in the Netflix stand-up special Only Jokes Allowed, alongside performers including Schalk Bezuidenhout, Mpho Popps, Nina Hastie, Robby Collins and Gilli Apter.
Her contribution to comedy has earned significant industry recognition. At the 2019 Savanna Comics’ Choice Awards, Celeste won both the Flying Solo Award and Comedy G Award. In 2025, marking approximately 20 years in comedy, she received the prestigious Comedian of the Year title at the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards.
Her momentum has continued into 2026, when she was recognised as Headliner of the Year at the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards, further cementing her position as one of the country’s leading comedy performers.
Alongside her stand-up career, Celeste is an accomplished actress. She became a household name through her portrayal of Siphokazi Zungu in Mzansi Magic’s Isibaya and has appeared in productions including Lockdown, 10 Days in Sun City, Looking for Love, Jiva! and, more recently, the Netflix series The Polygamist, in which she plays Essie.
Her acting work has also received industry recognition, including a Golden Horn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a TV Soap.
As an MC and corporate entertainer, Celeste brings the same warmth, spontaneity and commanding stage presence that have made her one of South Africa’s most popular comedians. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences makes her an excellent choice for corporate events, awards ceremonies, gala dinners, conferences, launches and private functions.
Career Highlights
- 2026 Savanna Comics’ Choice – Headliner of the Year
- 2025 Savanna Comics’ Choice – Comedian of the Year
- 2019 Savanna Comics’ Choice – Flying Solo Award
- 2019 Savanna Comics’ Choice – Comedy G Award
- Recipient of a Golden Horn Award for her acting
- First local female comedian to record a one-woman comedy show DVD
- Featured comedian in Netflix’s Only Jokes Allowed
- Sold-out performance at Leicester Square Theatre, London
- Starred as Siphokazi Zungu in Isibaya
- Screen credits include Lockdown, Jiva!, 10 Days in Sun City, Looking for Love and The Polygamist
- More than 20 years in South African comedy
- Experienced corporate comedian, MC and event entertainer
