During his performance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, Dave Chappelle explained that he felt he had the freedom of speech to make jokes about Charlie Kirk. He stated he had more free speech available to him for that purpose.
The famous comedian stated: ‘Currently, in the United States, there’s a belief that mentioning Charlie Kirk will lead to being canceled.’
He told a crowd of 6,000 in Riyadh, ‘I’m not sure if that’s correct, but I intend to investigate,’ he added.
Chappelle emphasized that he finds it simpler to express his thoughts here than in the United States, and even voiced concerns about potential backlash for jokes criticizing Israel’s reaction to the October 7th terrorist attack in Gaza.
‘They’re going to do something to me so that I can’t say what I want to say,’ Chappelle said.
The audience appeared to take notice at the comedian’s material.
One audience member said they really enjoyed the comic’s jokes that made fun of Trump and Charlie Kirk.
The comedian, who has frequently discussed facing backlash for his views on transgender rights, also voiced his disapproval of ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel, according to The New York Times.
The festival – featuring headliners like Chappelle, Louis CK, Kevin Hart, and Bill Burr – has faced significant criticism. Many are upset that it’s accepting funding from Saudi Arabia, a country known for its repressive policies, while simultaneously speaking out against ‘cancel culture’ within the United States.
Several comedians have either withdrawn from the festival themselves, or were asked to leave by the organizers, because of their critical comments about the Saudi government.
Comedian Tim Dillon shared that he’s earning $375,000 for his appearance, and suggested some other comedians were making as much as $1.6 million.
‘I’m doing this,’ he explained, ‘simply because I’m being paid a significant amount of money – enough to justify ignoring what’s happening.’
Many people are participating, and the Saudis have invested in comedy. So what’s the big deal? Seriously, what’s bothering you? ‘Well, they have a history of slavery and violence…’ Look, you need to move past that. Do I disagree with some of their policies regarding women and LGBTQ+ rights? Absolutely… But I prioritize my own financial security, and I always have.
Dillon, who is gay, was later dropped for making jokes about migrant workers in Saudi Arabia.
Jim Jeffries, an Australian comedian, was also taken off the festival lineup after sharing critical opinions on Theo Von’s podcast.
Bill Burr, who performed at the festival, defended his appearance and praised the atmostphere.
‘It was a fantastic experience being in that part of the world and participating in Saudi Arabia’s very first comedy festival,’ Burr shared on his podcast.
The royal family really enjoyed the show, and everyone was pleased with how it went. The festival organizers were absolutely thrilled. I’ve been talking to the comedians, and they’ve all said, ‘Dude, you could just *feel* that the audience was really eager for this. They were craving live stand-up comedy.’ It was an incredible, mind-blowing experience – easily in the top three of my life. I’m confident it will open doors to a lot of great opportunities.
Burr explained that the comedians had agreed on just two topics that were off-limits: jokes about royals and religion.
Comedian and former Arrested Development star David Cross has strongly criticized the comedians who decided to perform at the festival, expressing his disapproval in an open letter.
I’m truly appalled and incredibly let down by this whole mess. It’s shocking to see people I respect, who are undeniably talented, support this oppressive system… all for what? Another home? A yacht? Even more shoes? After this, we can’t possibly take anything these comedians have to say seriously.
The festival is taking place from September 26 to October 9, 2025, at Boulevard City in Riyadh.
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2025-10-03 04:05