"The flier for the event boasts that more than 50 of the best comedians from around the world were slated to perform. As is the case with many things involving Saudi money these days, the news of their participation in the festival was met with a great deal of backlash. Similar to the controversies surrounding LIV Golf and a host of other sports ventures, many have accused the Saudis of investing in entertainment as a distraction from the human rights issues plaguing the country."
"David Cross, known for his role as Tobias Funke in the sitcom Arrested Development, published a scathing essay Monday expressing disappointment that the ones he considered to be his heroes accept the offer: You're performing for literally, the most oppressive regime on earth, Cross said on his website. They have SLAVES for fuck's sake!!! Shane Gillis, one of the biggest names in the industry, said he was also invited."
More than fifty international comedians were scheduled to perform at the two-week Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, including Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr, Andrew Schulz, Louis C.K., and Kevin Hart. The festival prompted widespread backlash as critics accuse Saudi investments in entertainment of distracting from systemic human rights abuses. Peers such as David Cross and Marc Maron publicly condemned participation, citing oppression and slavery allegations. Some invitees, like Shane Gillis, declined even after increased offers, citing principle. Critics frame the festival as an attempt by Saudi authorities to sanitize the country's image through high-profile cultural events.
Read at www.mediaite.com
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