American Celebrities With South African Roots

We have local celebrities who have done everything in their power to make South Africa known beyond borders and we are proud of them. We also have celebrities with South African roots who spread their wings and flew to America and are making a killing in Hollywood.

Here are some of the most famous American celebs who have their origins in South Africa. A few will surprise you. 

The richest man on earth, according to Forbes, is from South Africa.

Elon Musk was born to a South African father and a Canadian mother raised in South Africa. He was born and was raised in Pretoria, South Africa up until he was 17 years old when he moved to the USA to avoid being enlisted in the army.

Amongst his many accomplishments, Elon Musk is the co-founder and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX where he also serves as CEO and chief engineer. He also co-founded Paypal just to name a few.

With a net worth of about $221 billion, Elon Musk is amongst the most famous people, not only in America but in the world as well.

Funnyman Trevor Noah is one of the most hilarious people on the planet.

The 38-year old was born during Apartheid to an African mother and a Dutch father and was raised in Soweto.

Before relocating to the US in 2011, Trevor Noah had established his name as a radio host, TV host, and comedian.

After moving to America, he made his debut at the Tonight Show in 2012 and went on to host Tonight with Trevor Noah before getting a spot at the Daily Show as a correspondent, and eventually as a host.

Currently, Trevor Noah is living the American dream. His comedy is enjoyed worldwide, he has a great career and he is making lots of money.

In 2021, Trevor Noah hosted the Grammys Awards which is one of the most prestigious awards in Hollywood.

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Charlize Theron is one of the most talented and highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.

She has appeared in numerous films, won lots of awards. She is the first South African to ever to be awarded the Best Actress award at the Oscars.

Charlize was born and raised in Benoni, Gauteng South Africa. As a teenager, her mother shot and killed her alcoholic father who threatened to harm both her and Charlize.

Presently, Theron holds dual citizenship and identifies as both South African and American.

If you are a fan of the American series ‘Lucifer’ then there’s a chance then you remember the beautiful demon ‘Mazikeen,’ a character that was flawlessly played by Lesley-Ann Brandt.

The 40-year-old Lesley-Ann Bradt was born in Cape Town, South Africa in 1981 before her family relocated to New Zealand where she kickstarted her career in modelling and acting.

Besides her role in Lucifer, she has also appeared in other TV series including Spartacus: Gods of The Arena and Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

Sasha Pieterse is another actress who has made her mark in Hollywood and is an all-rounded American celebrity with singing and songwriting skills, as well as impeccable acting skills.

The 26-year-old has appeared in numerous films and TV series including Pretty Little Liars and Family Affair, both of which won her several nominations and a few awards.

Sasha Pieterse was born in Johannesburg, South Africa before she relocated with her family to America where she has made a successful career in Hollywood.

Which of these celebs were you shocked to find on the list?