After more than 43 seasons and 700 episodes of Noot vir Noot, Johan Stemmet has said goodbye to the show after 28 years.
Known for his Madiba shirts and being a charming host, Stemmet, 66, ended his run on the SABC2 show on a high note on Thursday night.
“After 28 years of doing the show, I feel like this will be one of the most exciting finales ever,” Stemmet wrote on his Facebook page.
And as Johan signs off, there may be other contenders waiting in the wings.
Possible names thrown into a hat could be eXpresso host and favoured MC Katlego Maboe, 32, performer Emo Adams, 40, singer-songwriter Bobby van Jaarsveld, 31, and grapjas MC Soli Philander.
Johan told Netwerk24 his departure from the show was a major step for him.
“It is a difficult announcement for me to make because the show was such a big part of my life. I do however feel that it is time for new blood and for the show to enter a new season.”
HIGH NOTE: Stemmet said goodbye to show last night
Stemmet was known for his colourful shirts and waistcoats and those never to be forgotten signature phrases and akkeltjies.
He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 SAFTAs.
The show will continue to air and is set to not only get a new presenter, but a complete makeover.
The first episode of Noot vir Noot aired on 27 July 1991, making it the longest-running game show in SA history.
Johan’s swansong has been met with disbelief and crying emojis on social media.
Nicky Nel said she’s been watching Noot vir Noot since childhood, adding it has been a dream to be a guest on the show.
Annelise De Witt called Johan’s departure a “nasionale ramp!”, while Nkateko Katie Mathebula said: “Dit breek my hart.”
A shocked Neil Myburgh wrote: “Noooooooo...this cant be....I am glad to have been on your show....i hope kyknet or somebody else takes the initiative over...this legacy that cannot just die like this. (sic)”