Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has defended his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he is co-headlining with British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has faced criticism from fellow comedians who accuse it of whitewashing a regime known for human rights abuses.

### Audience Response Surprises Comedians

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK revealed that other comedians were “really surprised” by the positive response from the Riyadh audience. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Restrictions and Decision-Making

Louis CK disclosed that he was informed of only two restrictions for his performance: no jokes about the country’s religion and government. He admitted that he does not have material on these subjects.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Criticism from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have slammed peers who agreed to perform in Riyadh while previously voicing concerns about cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website directly calling out Louis CK.

“Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” Cross wrote.

### Defenses from Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed on September 29, had requested assurance that she could discuss being a lesbian on stage. Nonetheless, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who performed on September 26, described his experience as “mind-blowing” and expressed enthusiasm for getting to experience that part of the world.

Other big names at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari, all of whom have also faced public scrutiny for their participation.

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The Riyadh Comedy Festival remains a controversial event, raising ongoing debates about the role of art and entertainment in regimes with problematic human rights records.
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