Some comedians in the U.S. are facing criticism for their participation in the high-profile Riad Comedy Festival, given Saudi Arabia’s record on human rights.
The festival, which started on Friday, features prominent stand-up acts like Bill Barr and Dave Chappelle. However, it’s drawn responses from fellow comedians and organizations like Human Rights Watch, directing attention to the significant repression of free speech and other human rights issues in the country.
In a recent press release, an advocate stated that “comedians involved in these festivals should be using their platforms to call attention to the plight of journalists and activists wrongfully imprisoned by Saudi authorities, instead of enhancing the Saudi government’s image.”
Comedian Mark Maron has been vocal since 2018, referencing Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the 9/11 attacks and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. He quipped, “How do you promote a festival funded by those who were behind 9/11? Two weeks of laughs in the desert, don’t miss it!” He pointed out the absurdity of the situation, saying, “The same people who bankroll them also orchestrated the horror surrounding Khashoggi’s murder.”
Maron added, “To be honest, I wasn’t asked to perform at the Riad Comedy Festival, so it’s easy for me to criticize.” He noted how maintaining principles is simpler when one isn’t tempted by an offer.
Shane Gillis, another comedian, also turned down an offer to perform at the festival, describing it as difficult but important. He spoke about his decision on “Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast.”
Meanwhile, Tim Dillon was initially set to participate but withdrew after making jokes about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record on a podcast, as highlighted by Human Rights Watch.
They emphasized that “the brutal murder of Jamal Khashoggi is not a subject for humor. Comedians who take substantial payments from Saudi authorities ought to speak out about crucial issues like human rights and free speech.” The call remains for performers at the festival to leverage their visibility to advocate for the release of imprisoned activists in Saudi Arabia.
