NEW YORK — Comedian Dave Chappelle is facing intense backlash on social media after a video circulating online show him making controversial remarks at his Madison Square Garden show on Saturday night, about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a stand-up performance reportedly held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
In the now viral clip, Chappelle is heard saying:
“I feel f*cked up saying this but…ever since that guy Charlie Kirk got murdered… and I shouldn’t say this publicly… I feel better.”
The remarks came high got loud laughs and cheers at the show have sparked outrage among conservative commentators, public figures, and social media users, many of whom have condemned the comedian for appearing to make light of a political assassination.
On X, with critics accuse Chappelle of crossing the line between provocative comedy and celebrating someone’s death.
Conservative commentator Benny Johnson reacted strongly, writing:
“This isn’t even comedy. It’s just sick.”
Mario Nawfal’s platform also condemned the remarks, pointing out that Kirk was a husband and father of two and criticizing the treatment of his killing as a punchline.
Meanwhile, educator Katharine Birbalsingh expressed disappointment, questioning why Chappelle would make such a statement despite acknowledging that he should not say it publicly.
Charlie Kirk Previously Defended Chappelle
Adding another layer to the controversy, conservative commentator Jack Posobiec resurfaced a 2022 social media post in which Kirk defended Chappelle after the comedian was attacked onstage during a performance.
In that post, Kirk criticized the handling of the attack and warned against political violence targeting public figures.
Posobiec highlighted the contrast between Kirk’s previous defense of Chappelle and the comedian’s reported remarks following Kirk’s death.
Chappelle has built much of his career around controversial humor, frequently challenging political correctness and addressing sensitive social and political issues.
