**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 addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. The event, which he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr, has faced criticism from fellow comedians for allegedly whitewashing a regime notorious for human rights abuses.
**Unexpected Audience Response**
On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK shared that many comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s reaction in Riyadh. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson, who also performed at the event, later 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.”
**Decision-Making and Performance Guidelines**
CK revealed that organizers informed him of only two restrictions for his performance: to avoid jokes about “their religion and their government.” He noted that he didn’t have any material targeting those topics.
“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 strongly criticized performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship but chose to participate in the Riyadh festival.
David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, explicitly calling out Louis CK by name. “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?” he wrote.
**Defenses from Performers**
Jessica Kirson requested assurances that she could discuss her identity as a lesbian on stage before agreeing to perform. Despite her initial participation, she later expressed “sincere regret” about performing under the Saudi government’s auspices.
Comedian Burr, who performed at the festival on September 26, defended his decision, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience.” He emphasized the value of experiencing that part of the world firsthand.
Other notable comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari also participated in the festival, adding to the diversity of voices present.
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The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the intersection of entertainment, cultural exchange, and human rights concerns in politically sensitive regions.
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