When people think of Trevor Noah, they often picture the globally recognized comedian, former host of The Daily Show, and bestselling author. But behind Trevor’s public success is a web of family stories that shaped him—and none is more quietly powerful than that of Andrew Shingange. As Trevor Noah’s stepbrother, Andrew has remained outside the spotlight but has lived a life filled with quiet strength, survival, and commitment to family.
Early Life in Johannesburg’s Shadow of Apartheid
Andrew Shingange was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, likely in the late 1980s or early 1990s, placing his age in the mid-30s as of 2025. He grew up in a nation still reeling from the injustices of apartheid. His mother, Patricia Nombuyiselo Noah, a Black South African from the Xhosa community, was the pillar of the household. His father, Abel Shingange, is believed to have Swiss-German roots, though some reports suggest he is of African origin but of a different tribal background.
Living in a segregated society, Andrew experienced racial tension, educational inequity, and domestic unrest. The school system he attended was underfunded and overcrowded, designed to restrict opportunity for Black South Africans. Despite this, Andrew persevered, completing his education while enduring social and financial hardships.
A Complicated Family Dynamic
Andrew is part of a blended family that includes Trevor Noah and Isaac Shingange. All three brothers share Patricia Noah as their mother but have different fathers. While Trevor’s father, Robert Noah, was a white Swiss national, Andrew and Isaac were born during Patricia’s later marriage to Abel Shingange.
Growing up, the three boys were close. They bonded over common challenges—poverty, an often-absent father, and life in a tense political environment. Patricia worked hard to protect and nurture her sons, frequently moving homes to escape domestic violence and striving to provide a better future. Her efforts deeply influenced Andrew’s values and character.
Surviving Family Trauma
One of the darkest moments in Andrew’s life occurred in 2009, after his mother remarried. Abel, Patricia’s ex-husband and Andrew’s biological father, shot her in a fit of rage. She miraculously survived, but the trauma ran deep. Reports indicate that Andrew’s brother, Isaac, intervened during the incident and begged their father to stop. This horrifying event revealed the undercurrent of danger the family had lived with for years.
The attack brought the family closer, reinforcing bonds and sharpening their resilience. Patricia’s strength during this time was pivotal. Andrew, shaped by witnessing this strength firsthand, adopted a strong sense of protection and support for his loved ones.
Private Life Away from Fame
Andrew Shingange is a quiet figure by design. Unlike Trevor, he does not seek the limelight. He does not maintain public social media profiles, has never given interviews, and has stayed largely outside the media’s gaze. His life in South Africa remains private, and details about his occupation are limited. Some reports suggest he may be involved in local business or community initiatives, but nothing is confirmed publicly.
Despite not being a public figure, Andrew has reportedly stayed close to Trevor. Trevor Noah has alluded in interviews to the important role his family played in grounding him through his rise to fame. Though Andrew has remained behind the scenes, his influence is undoubtedly significant.
Relationship with Trevor Noah
The relationship between Andrew and Trevor has been marked by mutual respect and enduring support. Growing up in the same household under challenging conditions made them close. Trevor has spoken in his memoir, “Born a Crime,” about how critical his family was during his upbringing and how witnessing his mother’s strength and his siblings’ resilience shaped him.
While Trevor’s success has taken him around the world, sources suggest he maintains regular contact with his family in South Africa, including Andrew. The two brothers share a deep understanding of the environment that forged them, making their bond one rooted in shared history rather than fame.
Family, Age, and Net Worth
Andrew Shingange is estimated to be in his mid-thirties. His exact birthdate is not public, and his current occupation is unknown. He has no known public relationships or children, and his mother, Patricia, remains a central figure in his life.
As for net worth, there are no public records. Given his low public profile and absence from the entertainment world, it’s likely he leads a modest lifestyle. His brother Trevor, by contrast, has a net worth of over $100 million, and while it’s unclear if Andrew receives financial support, Trevor has mentioned helping his family back home.
A Symbol of Quiet Strength
Andrew Shingange’s life may not be front-page news, but it is a powerful example of the kind of strength that often exists behind famous names. He represents the resilience of many who grow up under difficult circumstances and still manage to live with dignity and purpose.
Choosing to live outside the glare of fame, he has focused on family, healing, and personal growth. In a world where celebrity often dominates headlines, Andrew’s story is a reminder that some of the most powerful lives are lived in quiet persistence.