Comedian Bill Maher criticized Dave Chappelle after Chappelle praised Saudi Arabia for its “respect for free speech” during a comedy festival in Riyadh. Maher called the remark “absurd,” pointing out the kingdom’s strict censorship laws, human rights violations, and history of punishing dissent. He said that while Chappelle may have been joking, such comments risk normalizing regimes that openly silence journalists, activists, and artists.
Maher argued that comedians have a responsibility to defend genuine free expression, not to praise nations that suppress it. Critics accused Chappelle of hypocrisy, noting his frequent criticism of “cancel culture” in the United States while speaking favorably about one of the world’s most repressive governments. Others suggested that Chappelle’s comment reflected a growing tendency among entertainers to overlook moral inconsistencies for international fame or financial gain.
Supporters of Maher’s stance said his remarks underscore the difference between Western debates over speech and the life-or-death consequences of speaking out under authoritarian regimes. Maher concluded that true free speech means having the courage to tell the truth—especially to those in power—regardless of the audience or setting.
