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Louis CK has defended his decision to perform at the humor event in Saudi Arabia following other comics criticised big names participating as whitewashing a regime responsible for rights violations.

Mixed Reactions from Performers

During an appearance on a talk show, CK, who is sharing top billing the event with British comedian Jimmy Carr, stated fellow performers had been “really surprised” by the reaction from audiences in Riyadh.

A star-studded lineup including top comics are among the lineup at the Saudi event, which concludes on 9 October.

“A performer who’s a lesbian and Jewish, who performed there, and she received enthusiastic applause,” CK remarked, referring to Jessica Kirson, who has expressed “sincere regret” for appearing at the festival.

Surprising Outcomes

“Clearly, developments going on that’s surprising in the situation,” CK continued. “Artists have been playing the kingdom for years. Stand-up artists have been traveling and entertaining in the region. There was a film festival there lately, it’s kind of opened up. But I’ve always said no to those nations.”

He said he was informed there would be only two restrictions on his material: “Their religion and their government.”

“I don’t have jokes about those two things,” he noted. “Previously, when I got offers from places like that, there would be extensive restrictions, and I’d respond, ‘I'll pass.’ But when I heard it’s opening, I felt, it's intriguing. It seems like a good opportunity. And I believe comedy is an effective means to engage and start talking.”

Moral Concerns Raised

Many performers have raised doubts about the ethics of doing stand-up at a festival funded by the Saudi Arabian government, which is notorious for rights issues and restrictions, and its oppression of journalists, women and LGBTQ rights.

The festival’s producers include a entertainment firm under Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund; and the national entertainment body, which is led by a advisor dogged by allegations of abuses.

A rights organization argued the event was an effort by the Saudi government to cover up its actions “during a rise in crackdown including a crackdown on free speech, which several performers defend but locals are not allowed”.

Scathing Criticism

Comedians such as well-known names have been scathing of those who have spoken out about public backlash and restrictions in the past for participating in Riyadh, with one comic publishing a blistering statement that singled out the headliner by name.

“Evidently, participants don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us respect you from now on?” he stated. “Your complaints about ‘public shaming’ and ‘freedom of speech’ and similar issues? Over. You don’t get to talk about it anymore. Everyone is aware of the agreement you had to agree to.”

The comedian addressed the criticism on the program.

“I was conflicted about it too,” he said. “I struggled about participating once I heard the feedback. Potential benefits in it, possible drawbacks. But for me, I think it cuts toward taking part. That’s my decision, and I know where it’s coming from, because I've reflected deeply.”

He added: “I love standup comedy, and I love comedians. So, the reality that opportunities are expanding and beginning to grow, I wanna see it, I wish to participate. I feel that’s a positive thing.”

Regrets and Defenses

The lesbian comic, who performed at the Riyadh festival on 29 September, told media that she had requested a assurance that she could discuss her sexuality on during her set, saying she “hoped that it might assist the community in the country gain visibility and valued … to my knowledge, I am the first openly gay comic to address it on in Saudi Arabia”.

But she added: “At the same time, I deeply regret participating supported by the Saudi government.” She said sorry to fans who were disappointed by “a misstep that had consequences I didn’t fully consider” and announced she would donate her payment to a human rights organisation.

Burr, who appeared in the capital on 26 September, defended his choice to take part, calling it “a mind-blowing experience”.

“It was great to experience that part of the world and to participate in the inaugural humor event over there,” he commented on a broadcast. “Officials loved the show. The response was positive. Organizers that were doing the festival were thrilled. Fellow performers that I’ve been talking to are saying, ‘Dude, you can feel [crowd] wanted it. They desire authentic humor.’ … I believe it’s paving the way for many benefits.”