The Federation of Afrikaans Cultural Associations (FAK) presented an honorary award to Bloemfontein-raised comedian and prankster Leon Schuster for his lifetime contribution to Afrikaans music, films, and radio work. Leon Schuster studied for a BA degree at the University of the Free State, where he played rugby for the first team.
Schuster attended Hoërskool Jim Fouché in Bloemfontein and later worked there as a teacher for two years.
Although this joker, prankster, film producer, and storyteller is currently experiencing health challenges, the FAK visited him at his home in Johannesburg to present him with the award in person.
“Leon Schuster has been a household name for decades and has managed to touch the hearts of millions of South Africans with his unique humour, songs, and films. He not only entertained but also introduced Afrikaans culture to a wider audience in his distinctive style,” said Dawid Brand, chief operating officer: media, marketing and tourism of the FAK.
“From films such as You Must Be Joking (1986), Oh Schucks!… It’s Schuster (1989)legend but Short (1992) and Mr Bones (2001), to name a few, to his popular songs such as “Briekdans”, “Dasiefoutie”, “Die Bokmasjien”, “Pretty Kabousie”, “Ag Pleeze Daddy” and “Gautengeleng”, Schuster has not only made himself a national legend, but has shown time and again that he understands people’s language and spirit,” Brand expressed.
In presenting the award, the FAK expressed its appreciation for Schuster’s continued work to promote the Afrikaans language and culture in an accessible and joyful way.
Although Schuster’s health currently prevents him from attending large gatherings, his gratitude for the award was clear. He experienced the FAK’s visit as a deep personal encouragement and expressed his appreciation for the love and recognition he received from the community.
“The FAK believes that Schuster’s work will live on for years to come and will inspire future generations to celebrate and live Afrikaans with pride,” says Ziegfried van Huyssteen, COO of the FAK, who presented the award to Schuster together with De Jager.
According to Schuster, he would like to be remembered as someone who brought joy to South Africans and brought people together.
Schuster was also recently honoured at kykNET’s Silwerskermfees for the film and TV industry for his lifetime contribution to the entertainment industry.
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