US comedians defend decision to play in Saudi Arabia: ‘They’re paying me enough to look the other way’

The GuardianWednesday, October 1, 2025 at 12:15:56 AM
US comedians defend decision to play in Saudi Arabia: ‘They’re paying me enough to look the other way’
The inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival, running from September 26 to October 9, has sparked controversy as prominent US comedians like Dave Chappelle and Louis CK defend their participation despite Saudi Arabia's human rights record. While billed as the biggest comedy festival in the world, the event raises questions about the ethics of performing in a country criticized for its treatment of dissenters. Comedians argue that the financial incentives are too significant to ignore, highlighting a complex intersection of art, politics, and morality.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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