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The stand-up comic has justified his choice to take the stage at the humor event in Saudi Arabia after other comics criticised major stars participating as glossing over a government guilty of rights violations.

Varied Responses from Comedians

Speaking on a talk show, CK, who is sharing top billing the event with UK comic Jimmy Carr, stated other comedians had been “really surprised” by the response from crowds in the Saudi capital.

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

“There’s a woman who’s openly gay and of Jewish faith, who performed there, and she got a standing ovation,” CK remarked, referring to Jessica Kirson, who has apologized for appearing at the festival.

Surprising Outcomes

“Clearly, developments going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK continued. “Artists have been performing in Saudi Arabia for a long time. Comedians have been traveling and entertaining in the region. A cinema event took place there lately, signaling openness. But I’ve always said no to those nations.”

He said he was informed there would be just a couple of limits on what he could talk about: “Their religion and the authorities.”

“My routine doesn’t include material about those two things,” he added. “Previously, when I got offers from places like that, there would be a long list, and I’d just say, ‘I'll pass.’ But when I heard the opening, I felt, it's intriguing. That just feels like a positive step. And I believe comedy is a great way to get in and start talking.”

Ethical Questions Highlighted

Several comedians have raised doubts about the morality of performing comedy at a festival funded by the Saudi Arabian government, which is known for rights issues and restrictions, and its suppression of reporters, females and LGBTQ rights.

The festival’s producers involve a live events company under the state investment fund; and the national entertainment body, which is led by a royal adviser facing allegations of abuses.

Human Rights Watch argued the festival was an effort by the Saudi government to whitewash its actions “amid significant increase in crackdown including a crackdown on expression, which several performers champion but people in Saudi Arabia are completely denied”.

Harsh Feedback

Performers including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka and David Cross have been scathing of those who have complained about public backlash and restrictions in the past for agreeing to take part in Riyadh, with Cross posting a strongly worded critique that called out CK by name.

“Clearly you guys show no concern about what the rest of us think, but how can we respect you from now on?” he stated. “Your complaints about ‘public shaming’ and ‘freedom of speech’ and all that shit? Done. No more discussing about it anymore. By now we’ve all seen the agreement you had to sign.”

The comedian addressed the criticism on Maher’s show.

“I was conflicted about it too,” he said. “I deliberated about participating once I heard the feedback. Potential benefits in it, maybe some bad. But for me, I believe it leans towards taking part. That’s my decision, and I know where it’s coming from, because I've reflected deeply.”

He added: “I'm passionate about comedy, and I support fellow artists. So, the reality that opportunities are expanding and starting to bud, I wanna see it, I wanna be part of it. I think that’s a positive thing.”

Regrets and Defenses

Kirson, who performed at the Riyadh festival on September 29, told media that she had requested a guarantee that she could discuss being a lesbian on during her set, stating she “hoped that it might assist the community in the country feel seen and respected … as far as I know, I am the pioneer to talk about it on in Saudi Arabia”.

But she clarified: “However, I sincerely apologize for taking part supported by the Saudi government.” She apologised to supporters who were let down by “a misstep that had consequences I didn’t fully consider” and announced she would donate her fee to a human rights organisation.

Another headliner, who appeared in Riyadh on September 26, supported his decision to take part, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience”.

“It was great to explore that part of the world and to be a part of the first comedy festival in Saudi Arabia,” he said on a broadcast. “Officials enjoyed the performance. The response was positive. Organizers running the event were delighted. The comedians I've spoken with are remarking, ‘Dude, you can feel [the audience] were eager. They want to see authentic humor.’ … I believe it’s paving the way for many benefits.”