Oprah's Super Soul

Super Soul Special: Trevor Noah: Born a Crime

8 snips
Dec 10, 2025
Trevor Noah, comedian and author of 'Born a Crime,' shares his journey from childhood in apartheid South Africa to becoming a beloved late-night host. He candidly discusses his mother's bravery and the lessons of resilience they learned through poverty. The conversation delves into the 'black tax' he describes in his memoir, highlighting the challenges faced by first-generation successes. Trevor also reflects on how comedy provided an outlet for navigating identity and the complexities of race, offering insight into his approach to humor in addressing social issues.
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INSIGHT

Apartheid As A Systemic Engine

  • Trevor Noah explains apartheid as a studied system of surveillance and layered segregation.
  • He compares it to forced removals, slavery, and segregation happening simultaneously to one group.
ANECDOTE

Hidden Under The Bed

  • Trevor Noah describes being hidden under a bed as a child to protect him from police during apartheid.
  • He later learned the truth from his grandmother only when writing his book.
ANECDOTE

Choosing Belonging Over Labels

  • Trevor recalls being placed in a 'smart' class of mostly white kids and longing for the black class where he connected culturally.
  • He chose the black class despite the teacher warning it would limit his future.
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