Chester Missing Biography: Awards, Owner, Age, Net Worth, TV Shows, Social Media, Pictures

Chester Missing is a satirical puppet character brought to life by South African ventriloquist Conrad Koch.

Known for his cheeky, incisive commentary, Chester first gained attention on the television show Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola, where he humorously examined politicians and social issues.

His presence on stage, in televised interviews, and at political events—including mock interviews at the 2024 State of the Nation—has made him a notable voice in South African political satire.

Profile

• Full name: Chester Missing
• Date of birth: N/A
• Age: N/A
• Gender: Male puppet character
• Place of birth: N/A
• Nationality: Fictional; portrayed in South Africa
• Profession: Puppet political commentator, satirical entertainer
• Height: N/A
• Parents: N/A
• Siblings: N/A
• Spouse: N/A
• Children: N/A
• Relationship status: N/A
• Religion: N/A
• Ethnicity: N/A
• Net worth: $0

Early Life and Education

Chester Missing does not have a personal biography, as he is a fictional puppet created by Conrad Koch. Through Chester, Koch channels political insights shaped by his academic background—Koch holds a master’s in social anthropology from the University of Cape Town, which informs the character’s critique of race, power, and privilege in post-apartheid South Africa.

Personal Life

As a puppet, Chester Missing does not have a personal life beyond his on-stage persona. His relationships and lifestyle are part of the satirical narrative woven by Conrad Koch, and no real-world personal details exist.

Career

Chester Missing debuted publicly in 2010 on Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola, satirizing the Jacob Zuma presidency and broader political climate. In 2014, he became the first puppet ever to be sued by singer Steve Hofmeyr after calling out politically charged statements; the court dismissed the application.

Following the COVID‑19 lockdown, Chester swapped hard-hitting political satire for lighter commentary in shows like Ramapuppet (2022) and Baggage (2024), where he shared the stage with Conrad and additional puppet personalities.

His international presence has expanded via appearances at festivals such as Just For Laughs in Montreal and North American tours to enthusiastic acclaim.

Awards

• Entertainer of the Year – National Arts Festival (Standard Bank Ovation Award)
• Times Comic’s Pen Award
• Nominated – Comic’s Choice Comedian of the Year
• Double International Emmy nomination for Late Nite News  

Net worth

Chester’s net worth is $0. As a puppet character, it does not hold financial assets. Conrad Koch’s work—including tours, television, speaking engagements, and festival performances with Chester—generates income for Koch and his team.

Controversy

Chester Missing has been central to political satire and public debate. In 2014, Steve Hofmeyr sued over a satirical critique, making Chester the first puppet to face a legal challenge; the lawsuit was dismissed.

The character also faced early criticism for racial portrayal; originally styled as a black puppet, Chester’s appearance was changed to white with blue eyes to avoid reinforcing stereotypes of white presenter Koch using blackface-style caricature.

Social Media

• Twitter/X: @chestermissing  
• Website: www.chestermissing.co.za