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Louis CK has defended his choice to perform at the humor event in Saudi Arabia after other comics criticised major stars taking part as whitewashing a government guilty of human rights abuses.

Mixed Reactions from Comedians

Speaking on Real Time With Bill Maher, the comedian, who is co-headlining the festival with UK comic his counterpart, said fellow performers had been “really surprised” by the response from crowds in Riyadh.

A star-studded lineup including top comics are among the lineup at the Saudi event, which concludes on 9 October.

“A performer who’s a lesbian and Jewish, who did a show there, and she received enthusiastic applause,” CK remarked, referring to Jessica Kirson, who has apologized for performing at the festival.

Unexpected Developments

“So, there’s stuff unfolding that’s unexpected in the situation,” the comedian added. “People have been performing in the kingdom for years. Stand-up artists have been traveling and playing Arab countries. There was a film festival there lately, signaling openness. But I previously declined offers to those nations.”

CK explained he was told there would be just a couple of limits on what he could talk about: “Their religion and their government.”

“My routine doesn’t include material about those two things,” he added. “Previously, when I got offers from places like that, there would be extensive restrictions, and I’d respond, ‘No, I don’t need that.’ But when I heard the opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I believe comedy is a great way to get in and start talking.”

Ethical Questions Highlighted

Several comedians have raised doubts about the ethics of doing stand-up at a festival funded by the Saudi Arabian government, which is notorious for rights issues and censorship, and its suppression of journalists, women and LGBTQ rights.

The festival’s producers include a live events company under the state investment fund; and the national entertainment body, which is chaired by a royal adviser facing claims of abuses.

Human Rights Watch stated the festival was an effort by the authorities to cover up its actions “amid a rise in crackdown including a crackdown on free speech, which several performers champion but people in Saudi Arabia are completely denied”.

Harsh Feedback

Performers including well-known names have been highly critical of those who have complained about cancel culture and restrictions in the previous for agreeing to take part in the festival, with Cross posting a strongly worded critique that singled out the headliner by name.

“Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us respect you from now on?” Cross stated. “All of your bitching about ‘cancel culture’ and ‘freedom of speech’ and similar issues? Done. No more discussing about it ever again. Everyone is aware of the contract you had to agree to.”

CK acknowledged the backlash on the program.

“I had mixed feelings about it as well,” he admitted. “I struggled about going after learning what everybody was saying. Potential benefits in it, maybe some bad. But for me, I think it leans towards taking part. My choice, and I understand my motives, because I've reflected deeply.”

He continued: “I love standup comedy, and I love comedians. So, the fact that opportunities are expanding and beginning to grow, I wanna see it, I wish to participate. I feel that’s a positive thing.”

Regrets and Defenses

Kirson, who appeared at the Riyadh festival on September 29, told media that she had requested a assurance that she could discuss her sexuality on during her set, stating she “believed that it might assist the community in the country gain visibility and respected … to my knowledge, I am the pioneer to address it on in Saudi Arabia”.

But she clarified: “At the same time, I sincerely apologize for participating supported by the Saudi government.” She apologised to supporters who were disappointed by “a misstep that had repercussions I overlooked” and said she would give her payment to a rights group.

Another headliner, who appeared in Riyadh on 26 September, defended his choice to participate, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience”.

“It was fantastic to explore that part of the world and to be a part of the first comedy festival over there,” he said on his podcast. “The royals enjoyed the performance. Everyone was happy. Organizers running the event were delighted. Fellow performers that I’ve been talking to are saying, ‘Man, you can sense [crowd] were eager. They desire real standup comedy.’ … I believe it’s going to lead to a lot of positive things.”