Who is Learnmore Jonasi? Zimbabwean stand-up comedian booed by audience to appear on 'AGT' Season 19
MUTARE, ZIMBABWE: 'America's Got Talent' Season 19 is gearing up to captivate audiences with a diverse array of talented contestants, including the renowned stand-up comedian, Learnmore Jonasi.
Born as Learnmore Mwenyeyeka on August 22, 1993, at Dangamvura Hospital in Mutare, Zimbabwe, he grew up without ever knowing his father's identity, raised by his grandparents Partson and Lillian Mwanyenyeka in Chimanimani.
Despite encountering challenges early in life, Learnmore pursued his education at various schools in Zimbabwe. Eventually, he ventured to Harare in pursuit of his comedic dreams, where he encountered initial setbacks but persevered with determination. Despite being booed by the audience, he returned to the open mic every Monday, determined to spread laughter for the next two years.
After struggling to find his footing in Harare, Learnmore sought opportunities in Bulawayo and eventually found his comedic voice at the Umahlekisa comedy club, earning the affectionate moniker 'The Village Boy from Chimanimani' for his witty anecdotes about rural life.
Under the mentorship of Ntando Van Moyo, Learnmore honed his skills and embarked on an international tour that kickstarted his successful career in comedy. His journey from a small town in Zimbabwe to the stages of renowned comedy clubs is a testament to his resilience and talent.
'AGT' Season 19 contestant Learnmore Jonasi was People’s Choice award winner in Steve Harvey’s Stand Up Spotlight
Throughout his career, Learnmore Jonasi has been the recipient of numerous prestigious accolades. Often referred to as 'The Village Boy,' he has been recognized for his talent and humor with awards such as the 2019 National Arts Merit Award for Outstanding Comedian of the Year and the 2019 Savanna Comic Choice Award for Pan African Comic of the Year.
Additionally, the Mutare native was the recipient of the People's Choice Award in Steve Harvey's Stand Up Spotlight competition in 2019. Continuing his streak of success, Jonasi was once again bestowed with the National Arts Merit Award for Outstanding Comedian of the Year in 2020.
The renowned stand-up comedian Steve Harvey was thoroughly impressed by the comedic prowess of Learnmore Jonasi, praising him for his wit, energy, and commanding presence on stage. Harvey encouraged Jonasi to persist in honing his skills and hailed him as a rising star in the world of comedy.
"You are funny, animated and have great stage presence. Keep it up champ," Harvey told Learnmore.
Is 'AGT' Season 19 star Learnmore Jonasi also an actor?
In addition to his work as a standup comedian and MC, Learnmore Jonasi has ventured into the world of acting. With several television credits under his belt, he has showcased his talent on popular shows like 'Mzansi Comedy Nights', 'The Last Laugh with Stuart Taylor', and 'Funny People Africa'.
Learnmore Jonasi calls his 'AGT' experience 'a dream come true'
Learnmore Jonasi recently took to his Instagram page to announce that he has been given the incredible opportunity to showcase his talent on the upcoming Season 19 of 'America's Got Talent'. He expressed that being a part of 'AGT' has always been a dream of his and he cannot wait to see where this amazing experience takes him.
"JONASI FAMILY!!!! On the 28th of May, I will be on TV🥲😁 Yes!! I will be on America's Got Talent, I really can't believe this is happening, it's truly a dream come true, please tune in #AGT #AGTAuditions @AGT @agtauditions," he wrote in the caption of the Instagram post.
'AGT' Season 19 premieres on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 8 pm ET only on NBC.