Louis CK has defended his choice to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival in Saudi Arabia, responding to criticism from other comedians regarding human rights abuses associated with the Saudi regime.
CK’s Perspective on Comedy in Saudi Arabia
On Real Time With Bill Maher, CK discussed the surprisingly positive audience reactions in Riyadh. He noted that while many comedians have hesitated to perform in Arab countries, the opening up of Saudi Arabia felt like a worthwhile opportunity for him.
CK mentioned that he was allowed to avoid commenting on the government and religion during his performance. He believed that comedy could serve as a means to foster dialogue and connect with audiences.
Criticism from Fellow Comedians
Many comedians have questioned the ethics of participating in a festival funded by the Saudi government, known for its censorship and human rights violations. Human Rights Watch criticized this performance as an attempt to distract from the increasing repression in the country.
Comedians like Marc Maron and David Cross expressed their concerns about performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture yet chose to perform in Riyadh. Cross directly addressed CK in a statement, questioning his motives and credibility.
Experiences and Regrets from Performers
Jessica Kirson, who performed earlier in the festival, expressed regret despite her intention to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility. She stated she would donate her fee to a human rights organization.
In contrast, Bill Burr hailed his performance as a meaningful experience, appreciating the audience’s enthusiasm for comedy. He believes this could lead to positive changes within the region.
