David Cross Joins Chorus Of Stand-Ups Slamming Riyadh Comedy Festival: “You Might As Well Do Commercials For Lockheed Martin”

David Cross has publicly criticized fellow comedians who are set to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, expressing his disgust and disappointment. He questions how these artists, whom he admires, can support a regime known for its oppressive policies, suggesting that their motivations may be financial rather than principled. This controversy highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by artists when engaging with countries that have questionable human rights records, sparking a broader conversation about the responsibilities of entertainers.

Lucas Hnath's fresh take on Molière's classic 'Tartuffe' is set to hit the stage at the New York Theatre Workshop, featuring notable performances by Matthew Broderick and David Cross. Starting November 28 and running until January 11, 2026, this production promises to bring a modern twist to a timeless story, making it a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. With a talented creative team, including choreographer Raja Feather Kelly, this adaptation is generating excitement and anticipation in the New York theatre scene.

Comedian Atsuko Okatsuka has made headlines by turning down a gig at the Riyadh Comedy Festival due to strict censorship rules imposed by the event. This revelation highlights the ongoing challenges artists face in expressing themselves freely in certain regions, raising important questions about artistic freedom and the implications of censorship in entertainment. As the festival aims to showcase comedy, Okatsuka's decision underscores the tension between creative expression and regulatory constraints, making it a significant moment for both the comedy community and audiences worldwide.

Prosecutors are pushing for a significant prison sentence of over 11 years for music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs in a New York federal court. This case highlights the serious legal challenges faced by high-profile figures and raises questions about accountability in the entertainment industry. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.

Chile's Juntos Films is making exciting strides in the film industry by partnering with Bandada, led by former Fabula executive Daniel Castell. This collaboration aims to enhance their scripted content offerings for Spanish-speaking audiences globally, ensuring exclusivity for future series. This partnership not only strengthens Juntos Films' position in the market but also promises to deliver fresh and engaging stories that resonate with viewers, marking a significant step forward for the Chilean film scene.

Tonight, Channel 4 presents a two-part documentary that dives into the extraordinary journey of Taylor Swift, the world's biggest pop star. Directed by Guy King, this film offers a balanced look at her rise, fall, and resurgence in the music industry. It's a must-watch for fans and anyone interested in the evolution of pop culture, showcasing not just her music but also her impact on society.

Argentina's Twins Latin Films is set to produce Natalia Smirnoff's new film 'Roger on the Loose,' which will be filmed in the beautiful landscapes of Córdoba next year. This collaboration highlights the growing film industry in Argentina and the international partnerships that are forming, as Twins Latin Films teams up with notable companies from Spain and Mexico. It's an exciting development for local cinema, promising to bring fresh stories to the screen.

Raúl Torquemada, head of the Madrid Film Office, highlights the city's growing prominence in the film industry, particularly through successful co-productions with Latin America. This year, Madrid has hosted notable projects like Prime Video's 'Red Queen' and films featuring stars like Javier Bardem and Diego Luna. As the city prepares for the 5th Iberseries & Platino Industria, a key networking event for Spanish and Portuguese-language media, the surge in high-profile productions underscores Madrid's appeal as a filmmaking hub, fostering international collaborations and boosting the local economy.

The U.K. and Ireland box office is buzzing with excitement as Warner Bros.' 'One Battle After Another' debuted at No. 1, raking in £2.4 million. Not to be outdone, Disney's 'Hamilton (10th Anniversary)' made a strong entrance at No. 2, also earning $2.4 million. This surge in box office numbers highlights the growing interest in theatrical releases, especially as audiences are eager to experience live performances again. It's a promising sign for the film industry as it continues to recover.