Noot Vir Noot

Why Noot vir Noot is the coolest South African TV show…ever.

 

Source:  timeslive.co.za

 So if you are reading beyond the title, it’s probably the result of a combination of confusion, disbelief and morbid curiosity. Most people would argue that Noot vir Noot is the antithesis of cool. But that in itself could be reason enough for this iconic Afrikaans game show to be granted cool status. In popular culture things are sometimes so uncool that they become cool (see: Christmas sweaters, mullets, crocheted tops and dad bods). However, there is more to Noot vir Noot that has earned the show its legendary status. Hear me out…

Longevity – The show is currently in its 41st season, with seasons 42 and 43 already commissioned. That’s an impressive 25 years on South African television screens. What other local show can boast such an achievement? Even Generations didn’t last a full generation.

Johan Stemmet is immortal – The presenter has not changed much over the years (save the bold waistcoats that were gradually muted until they were a distant memory) and I’m convinced that he will outlive us all. He knows a guy. And it’s the same guy Riaan Cruywagen knows.

Unity – The show crosses cultural and language boundaries and brings feuding families together for at least an hour every week as they shout out answers at the screen when the moment is too much for some contestants. Communities from "Die Perel" to De Aar come together to cheer for locals who are battling it out on Noot vir Noot.

Dirty puns galore – At least for the dirty-minded. "In die kol", "Druk jou knoppie" and "Steek hom in jou sak" are just a few of the naughty double entendres that have become catch phrases over the years.

Suspense – The show moves from light-hearted fun to the nail-biting "Maak of Breek" round as contestants battle it out for the title of champion. Then it’s a race against the clock as the winner has to identify four songs in a row. By this point, your heart rate is increasing, you are sitting on the edge of your seat and you are rubbing your chest like Ester Willemse (maar my!). Then, if the winner is successful, they have the option to double their winnings - or lose it all. You are now standing on the couch, your heart is pounding and you’ve bitten your nails to the quick. Fok!

Educational – The show is an endless source of musical knowledge. Did you know that Elton John’s real name is Reginald Kenneth Dwight? Did you know that Bohemian Rhapsody was originally a hit for Queen in 1976? I did, thanks to my Noot vir Noot education. That’s why errbody wants me on their team for 30 Seconds. And speaking of games…

If nothing else, it makes for a great drinking game – Take a shot every time a contestant loses ‘n 100 Randjies, or there’s a Kurt Darren-related question, or a contestant is from Pre-tooria. Give it a try with a bunch of mates. You’ll be wasted before you can say "Musiek Fabriek".