Ep 1. Trevor Noah

Breaking Big is a documentary series that explores the stories of some of the most successful and influential individuals in various fields through in-depth interviews, footage of their early years and career trajectories. The first episode of the show focuses on Trevor Noah, a comedian, actor, writer, and the current host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central.

The episode starts by highlighting Trevor's childhood in South Africa during the apartheid era, where his mixed-race identity made him an outcast. Trevor was born to a black South African mother and a white Swiss German father, and the show details the challenges Trevor faced growing up in a segregated society where his existence was taboo.

We are also introduced to Patricia Noah, Trevor's mother, as she shares her own story of how she met Trevor's father and the difficulties she faced as an interracial couple in South Africa. The episode features candid interviews with Trevor himself, his friends, and colleagues, providing a personal and intimate look into his life and career.

The episode then moves on to Trevor's rise in the entertainment industry, starting with his first break as a radio DJ in South Africa. We see how his quick wit and charm quickly gained him a loyal following, and how he eventually transitioned to stand-up comedy. Trevor's unique perspective as a biracial South African helped set him apart in a competitive industry.

The episode also explores some of the obstacles Trevor faced as an up-and-coming comedian, including his struggle to gain recognition outside of South Africa, and his experiences with racism and discrimination in his travels around the world.

As Trevor's career begins to take off, the episode delves into his personal life, including his romantic relationships and his struggle with addiction. We see how Trevor's relentless drive to succeed often came at a cost, and how his personal struggles have informed his comedy and helped him connect with audiences.

Throughout the episode, we see how Trevor evolved from a young boy facing discrimination to a successful comedian and talk show host, inspiring people around the world with his wit, perspective, and humor. The show does an excellent job highlighting the hard work, persistence, and talent that allowed Trevor Noah to break big, as well as his unique perspective on the world and the role that comedy plays in shaping public discourse.

Overall, the first episode of Breaking Big is an engaging and inspiring look into the life and career of Trevor Noah. Through candid interviews, archival footage, and personal insights, we get to know Trevor as more than just a comedian or talk show host, but as a complex and talented individual who has overcome countless obstacles to achieve success. The episode effectively contextualizes Trevor's life within the larger social and political systems of South Africa and the world, making his story a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.