Trevor Noah Pulls Out as Host of the 2016 MTV Africa Music Awards

South African born U.S.-based comedian Trevor Noah has pulled out of hosting this year’s MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA), scheduled to take place on October 22nd. Barely 48 hours before the awards, Noah took to social media to announce to fans across Africa that he was forced to cancel the hosting gig due to a severe ear infection that has effected his vocal chords. He added that he was obeying medical advice to rest, preventing him from traveling for the show.

In a statement released on Twitter, the comedian told fans:

“Due to the infection and strain on my vocal chords the doctor has ordered me to rest my voice and recover my health. I desperately wish I could dismiss the doctor but the added risk of flying means that decision would be highly irresponsible and may cause further damage.

Last month, organizers at MTV announced that the 32-year-old Noah would be hosting this year’s award show. The comedian, who is known for exploring themes such as racism, xenophobia, and sexism was born in Johannesburg, South Africa during Apartheid. He is of Xhosa, Jewish, and Swiss-German ancestry and is the current host of Comedy Central’s the Daily Show, which he took over from John Stewart in 2015.

MAMA organizers have announced that South African born media personality, Bonang Matheba, will replace Noah as host of the award ceremony, which will be held at  Northgate Ticket Pro Dome in Johannesburg.