Topline
Comedy comedian Dave Chappelle addressed transphobia controversy around his Netflix comedy special The Closer. He said Monday that he was willing to talk with transgender Netflix employees who took issue with his remarks while also claiming that his appearances were canceled.
Comedy star Dave Chappelle is facing controversy over comments he made during the Netflix special "The Closer". (Photo by Owen Sweeney/Invision/AP. File) Owen Sweeney/Invision/AP
The Key Facts
In a video posted to his Instagram Monday afternoon from a stand-up show, Chappelle said that although he doesn't want to bend to anyones demands, he would be able to have an audience among the transgender community on three conditions. They must watch The Closer from beginning to end, and go to a time and place of their choosing. Also, they must admit that Hannah Gadsby (an openly lesbian comedian from Australia) is not funny. Chappelle thanked Ted Sarandos, the CEO of Netflix, for standing by him. He also said Monday, Thank God Ted Sarandos and Netflix won't touch his Untitled documentary due to controversy. Netflix did not respond to Forbes' request for comment regarding Chappelle's Monday comments. However, organizers of last week's walkout by transgender Netflix employees are yet to reply to Forbes' request.
Important Quote
Chappelle spoke out about the reaction of transgender Netflix employees. He said in the Instagram clip, "I said what I meant and boy, I heard your words, my God, how can I not." You stated that you wanted a safe workplace at Netflix. It seems that I'm the only one who can't go to work anymore.
Important Background
Two emails were sent by Sarandos to Netflix employees to stand behind Chappelle in the backlash against the special. They stated that the show would not cause any real-life harm. Variety reports. In an interview with Variety, the Netflix chief admitted that he had made mistakes in communicating his support to Chappelle during the backlash to the special. However, he maintained that he believed the show would not cause real-life harm.
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Netflix Reintroduces Three Workers who Spoke Out Against Dave Chappelles Stand Up Special (Forbes).
