Frank Chirisa isn’t just Zimbabwe’s fastest-rising comedy star, he’s a storyteller, a survivor, and a symbol of hope. With over 20 performances in 2025 alone and a world tour in the works, Frank’s journey is anything but ordinary.

My Kasi Magazine reporter, Makhosini Mpofu caught up with him to talk about his breakout moment, how he’s using humor to tackle mental health, and why he believes comedy, faith, and vulnerability can change lives.

While 2025 might seem like Frank’s breakout year, he’s quick to point out that the real groundwork was laid back in 2024.

“Last year, I was seeding for this year,” he says. “I had my one-man show Funny Stories That Heal at Bulawayo Theatre and went on a national tour. That tour opened doors across Southern Africa. 2025 has just been a continuation, with more doors opening.”

Among the year’s many highlights? A feature at the O Mokae Comedy Festival in Botswana and ushering in 10 new comedians during his New Faces Comedy Show in July. Frank isn’t just performing, he’s building a legacy.

Touring across Zimbabwe and the region hasn’t just grown his audience, it’s expanded his perspective. “Traveling exposes you to more knowledge, culture, and experiences,” Frank explains. “I’ve found mentors on the road in Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa. It’s broadened my material and made me better.”

Frank’s comedy is rooted in raw, personal truth. He doesn’t shy away from dark topics, in fact, he shines a light on them.

“I survived suicide multiple times and stayed at Ngutsheni at some point. My comedy is based on those experiences,” he shares. “When I’m vulnerable on stage, people connect. They come up to me and say, ‘I’m going through the same thing.’”

His mental health advocacy isn’t a side note, it’s the foundation of his art.

“After my infamous suicide attempt and my stay at Ngutsheni, I realized I needed to speak more. It’s therapy for me too.”

Still, not every audience is ready. “Some crowds are sensitive, they feel sorry instead of laughing. Others think I’m making things up. But I’ve learned to navigate that.”

Frank draws heavily from self-deprecation, satire, and observational humor, styles influenced by American greats like Bill Burr and Andrew Schulz.

“My eyes and ears are always open. I see jokes everywhere. Everyone and everything around me is content.”

But even seasoned comics have their off days. “Sometimes I bomb. If I know why, I fix it. If I don’t, it ruins my mood for weeks. But I never blame the audience, it’s my job to make them laugh.”

For Frank, comedy is more than entertainment, it’s a platform. “I want people to see how life can improve if you include God. This turnaround has been made possible by Him.”

His goals are as big as his punchlines. A world tour, titled Frankly Speaking, is scheduled to run from late 2025 through 2027. His advocacy work continues alongside.

“I’ll keep using comedy to get the word out about mental health.”

In the short term, fans can catch him hosting Miss Teen of the Universe in Harare on July 26 and headlining Intwasa Comedy Night on September 24.

Frank hasn’t forgotten where he came from, or the hustle it took to get here. His advice to up-and-coming comedians? “Don’t steal jokes. Keep writing. Stay humble. Perform more. Work on being good, the rest will take care of itself.”

And how does he maintain his own mental health amid the whirlwind?

“Comedy is my therapy. Sometimes it stresses me too, so I occasionally go for therapy and I’m surrounded by great friends and family.”

His final note, if he could talk to his younger self? “Be patient. Don’t burn bridges.”

Frank Chirisa’s story isn’t just about chasing laughs, it’s about healing, honesty, and honoring the journey. In the world of comedy, he’s more than a rising star, he’s a force with a purpose.