Donovan David Goliath is a South African stand-up comedian, television presenter, and writer who left a promising career in advertising in 2010 to pursue comedy full-time.
He first made audiences laugh with his debut set at the Comedy Underground in Melville, drawing on his upbringing as a coloured boy in the Transkei and his knack for impressions and character work.
Since then, he has become a fixture on South African comedy stages, been a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2014, and co-hosted BBC South Africa’s The Great SA Bake Off.
Early Life and Education
Donovan Goliath was born on 6 February 1980 in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, where he navigated life “looking white but speaking fluent Xhosa,” experiences he later wove into his comedy. He completed his schooling locally before moving into an advertising role, which he left in 2010 to follow his true passion for stand-up comedy.
Personal Life
In 2021, Donovan married musician and entrepreneur Davina Gordon. Their first child, daughter Sophia Mae, arrived in August 2021, followed by their second daughter, Scarlett Hazel Goliath, on 14 October 2024. Beyond these milestones, Donovan keeps the details of his family life largely private.
Career
After his breakthrough set in September 2010, Donovan performed at major South African comedy festivals and venues, including Blacks Only, Soweto Comedy Festival, 99% Xhosa Comedy, Jou Ma Se Comedy in Cape Town, Kings & Queens of Comedy, and a 51-show run of LOL at Gold Reef City.
He earned nominations for Newcomer of the Year at the Comics’ Choice Awards in 2012 and for the BlackBerry Breakthrough category in 2013. In 2014, he appeared on SABC3’s Strictly Come Dancing (season 7), and in 2015, he co-presented The Great SA Bake Off for BBC South Africa. He continues to write, tour, and produce, blending personal truths with character-driven humour.
Awards
Newcomer of the Year nomination, Comics’ Choice Awards 2012
Blackberry Breakthrough nomination, Comics’ Choice Awards 2013
Net worth
Donovan Goliath’s estimated net worth is about $2 million; his income derives from live performances, television hosting fees, festival appearances, writing engagements, and brand partnerships.
Filmography
Strictly Come Dancing (SABC3, season 7 contestant, 2014)
The Great SA Bake Off (BBC South Africa co-presenter, 2015)
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