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Trending in Wicus van der Merwe’s World
Latest Album
20 Goue Treffers
Released Sep 4, 2015
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Story
Quick Facts
Born
1972
1972
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Wicus van der Merwe, born Willem Jacobus van der Merwe on 17 July 1972 in Clanwilliam, Western Cape, is one of South Africa’s most recognisable Afrikaans entertainers. He’s a singer, comedian, actor, and TV host who has built a long career by blending humour, heart, and music into something uniquely his own.
Coming from a family where laughter was a way of life, Wicus is the son of the late Tolla van der Merwe, one of South Africa’s most celebrated Afrikaans comedians and storytellers, and his mother, Marieta, who encouraged his bright and playful personality. From a young age, Wicus had a flair for performance, often entertaining classmates and neighbours with jokes and skits. After completing school at Hoërskool Clanwilliam, he served his national duty in the South African Navy, then went on to study Psychology and Drama at Stellenbosch University. Those studies shaped his understanding of people and performance, skills that later became the foundation of his stage presence.
Before becoming a full-time entertainer, Wicus worked in the insurance and banking sector, but his passion for performance never faded. He regularly performed at community events and festivals until he was signed by Select Musiek in 2002, which marked the start of his professional music career. His debut album, Hie’ Komme Ding, introduced audiences to his distinctive mix of storytelling, humour, and melody. The album’s success opened the door to a string of popular releases, including "Annatjie My 4×4," "Vat Hom Pappie," "Hooit!," "Popster," "Al My Hiets!, and "Songs uit Botterblomstraat."
Wicus’s songs often celebrate the quirks of everyday Afrikaans life - funny, nostalgic, and deeply relatable. Tracks like “Spietkop,” “Hie’ Komme Ding,” and “Geen Suspensie, Geen Beheer” became household favourites, known for their lively rhythms and sharp but good-natured humour. His music, while lighthearted, carries an authentic emotional core that resonates across generations of listeners.
His natural charisma also translated easily to television. Wicus became a familiar face on KykNET, hosting the popular show Opskop and later co-hosting Jou Show with Emo Adams. He has appeared on numerous programs, including Fiësta and Jukebox, and twice served as master of ceremonies at the prestigious Skouspel concerts, major highlights in the Afrikaans music calendar. He later took on acting roles, debuting in the short film Die Juweeldiewe, which premiered at the KykNET Silwerskermfees in 2015.
Over the years, Wicus has collaborated with several South African artists. He recorded the heartfelt duet “Vergeet My Nie Te Lank Nie” with Christopher Johnson, and later reinterpreted Francois van Coke and Karen Zoid’s hit “Toe Vind Ek Jou” with Francois’s permission, showcasing his versatility as both a comedian and serious performer.
His artistry has earned him multiple awards and nominations, including a Ghoema Award for Best Comedy Album in 2015 and the Huisgenoot Tempo Award for Best Humorous Album in 2009. He has also received nominations for the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) - a recognition of his impact within the Afrikaans entertainment industry.
On stage, Wicus is known for his boundless energy, quick wit, and ability to turn any audience into a laughing, singing crowd. His shows are part stand-up, part concert, a joyful celebration of Afrikaans culture, music, and everyday humour. Despite his fame, he remains grounded and thankful for the support of his fans, crediting his father’s legacy as his greatest inspiration.
When he’s not performing, Wicus enjoys rugby, whiskey, and classic Elvis Presley tunes, a mix that perfectly mirrors his bold yet easygoing personality. His down-to-earth charm, sense of humour, and love for storytelling have made him a household name and a symbol of good-natured South African entertainment.
Through decades of work on stage, screen, and studio, Wicus van der Merwe continues to bring people together through laughter and song. His career stands as a celebration of Afrikaans identity, proving that humour and heart can speak a universal language of joy.