Dave Chappelle.Photo: Netflix
Dave Chappelleis facing backlash for controversial remarks made in his newest comedy special.
In Netflix’sThe Closer,which premiered on Tuesday, the 48-year-old comedian continued to make jokes directed at the LGBTQ+ community — specifically the trans community — with references to his past dust-ups for similar humor in his previous standup acts.
One passage in particular caused a variety ofstrong reactionson Twitter. “Gender is a fact. Every human being in this room, every human being on earth, had to pass through the legs of a woman to be on earth. That is a fact,” Chappelle said inThe Closer.
“Now, I am not saying that to say trans women aren’t women, I am just saying that those p—ies that they got… you know what I mean? I’m not saying it’s not p—y, but it’s Beyond P—y or Impossible P—y. It tastes like p—y, but that’s not quite what it is, is it? That’s not blood,” he said. “That’s beet juice.”
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Those and similar jokes sparked swift online criticism. Actress and directorTaylor Ashbrooktweeted, “As a trans woman, I have usually defended Dave Chappelle’s specials because I think they’re hilarious and his jokes about trans women never felt intentionally malicious.
“The Closerchanged my mind on that. That special felt so lazy and disingenuous and I’m really disappointed.”
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Another passage from Chappelle’s set also drew criticism for seemingly drawing a stark line between the Black and queer communities with no room for overlap.
“Any of you who have ever watched me know that I have never had a problem with transgender people,” the comedian said. “If you listen to what I’m saying, clearly, my problem has always been with white people.”
This statement particularly angered many online, specifically Black trans people who felt Chappelle was completely overlooking them.
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Another commented, “Dave chappelle spent more time and jokes on gay and Trans people than he did white people, the supposed people all his jokes are directed at. This dude has reach trump level gaslighting in ‘the closer.’ "
Netflix as well as representatives for Chappelle did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
source: people.com
