Leon Schuster defends his comedy and confirms new Netflix film
Comedian Leon Schuster, 75, says he has nothing to regret about his pranks and films, and that he is making a new movie for Netflix.
Leon Schuster says he stands by the films and pranks that made his name, even though his work has long drawn criticism over how it portrays race. The 75-year-old comedian shared his views in an interview with SABC presenter Leanne Manas, according to IOL.
Defending Mama Jack
Schuster has been criticised for years over his use of blackface and racial stereotypes. His film Mama Jack, in which he played a black woman, drew accusations of cultural appropriation and raised questions about how race and identity were shown on screen.
He rejected that reading. Schuster said the character grew out of what he had seen of the lives of domestic workers in South Africa, and called it his favourite role. He told Manas that he spent many hours watching his own domestic worker, Sarah, to learn about her culture and daily routine. He also said he went out in costume as Mama Jack in Cape Town to see how people responded.
“I was merely portraying the reality of South Africa,” he said of the film.
No plans to stop
Pressed on whether there was anything he should say sorry for, Schuster did not offer an apology. “I am a prankster, and I will die a prankster,” he said. He added that he sees himself as a people pleaser who gives audiences the kind of humour they enjoy.
IOL noted that his films were taken off Showmax and DStv in 2020 because of concerns about racial insensitivity. They were reinstated in 2025.
Schuster also said he is working on a new movie for Netflix. He pushed back against the idea that he should leave the industry because of his age. His health will affect the shoot, he acknowledged, and he will be in a wheelchair for some scenes.
Asked about his legacy, he said he wants to be remembered as “a jovial guy who loved his work” and who helped bring different groups of South Africans together.
What happens next
The interview gives no title, release date or cast details for the Netflix film, so viewers will have to wait for an official announcement. His older films have been available to stream again since their reinstatement in 2025, and the debate over how they portray race looks set to continue.
This story is based on reporting by IOL.
