Comedian David Cross Criticizes Riyadh Comedy Festival, Defended by Pete Davidson

David Cross recently voiced his strong disapproval of the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which has been promoted as “the world’s largest comedy festival” and features high-profile comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Louis C.K., Bill Burr, Kevin Hart, and Whitney Cummings. Cross criticized the event on his website, calling it “disgusting” and “gross,” and questioned why talented comedians would associate with a regime he describes as “totalitarian.” He expressed disappointment, sarcastically suggesting they might be motivated by material possessions like a new house or sneakers.

Cross also accused some comedians of hypocrisy, lamenting that icons like Dave Chappelle, Louis C.K., Bill Burr, and Jim Gaffigan appear to dismiss concerns about free speech and cancel culture, despite performing for an oppressive government. He deemed their participation as “blood money” and criticized their apparent indifference to the moral implications.

Meanwhile, Pete Davidson, who will perform at the festival, defended his decision during a September 23 appearance on Theo Von’s podcast. He mentioned receiving some backlash but admitted he went because of financial reasons, saying, “I see the number, and I go, ‘I’ll go.’” Davidson’s father, a New York City firefighter, was killed during the 9/11 attacks.

Further criticism came from comedian Marc Maron, who questioned how promotion for the festival could be taken seriously, joking: “From the folks that brought you 9/11. Two weeks of laughter in the desert, don’t miss it.” Cross also mentioned he has faced criticism for his stance, partly due to personal grief related to his father’s death in the terrorist attacks.