‘Amoral, evil’: vitriolic backlash builds against comics who played Riyadh festival

Aziz Ansari is making headlines for his decision to perform at the inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, a choice he approached with careful consideration. Acknowledging the complexities surrounding the event, he expressed his understanding of the concerns raised, particularly given his Muslim heritage. Ansari plans to donate a portion of his fee to address these issues, highlighting his commitment to social responsibility. This move not only showcases his dedication to his roots but also sparks a broader conversation about the role of artists in navigating cultural sensitivities.

Aziz Ansari is making headlines for his decision to perform at the inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, a choice he approached with careful consideration. Acknowledging the complexities surrounding the event, he expressed his understanding of the concerns raised, particularly given his Muslim heritage. Ansari plans to donate a portion of his fee to address these issues, highlighting his commitment to social responsibility. This move not only showcases his dedication to his roots but also sparks a broader conversation about the role of artists in navigating cultural sensitivities.

In a tense interview on his late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel confronted comedian Aziz Ansari about his performance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which is backed by the Saudi government. Kimmel highlighted the controversy surrounding the event, emphasizing the concerns many comedians have regarding performing in a country with a reputation for human rights abuses. This discussion is significant as it reflects the ongoing debate about the ethics of performing in places with questionable regimes, raising questions about the responsibilities of artists in the face of political issues.

In a tense interview on his late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel confronted comedian Aziz Ansari about his performance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which is backed by the Saudi government. Kimmel highlighted the controversy surrounding the event, emphasizing the concerns many comedians have regarding performing in a country with a reputation for human rights abuses. This discussion is significant as it reflects the ongoing debate about the ethics of performing in places with questionable regimes, raising questions about the responsibilities of artists in the face of political issues.

Cristiano Ronaldo has reached a remarkable milestone by becoming the first soccer player to achieve billionaire status, largely thanks to his lucrative two-year contract with Saudi Arabia. This achievement not only highlights his exceptional talent and marketability but also sets a new standard in the sports industry, inspiring athletes worldwide to pursue their financial goals.

Cristiano Ronaldo has reached a remarkable milestone by becoming the first soccer player to achieve billionaire status, largely thanks to his lucrative two-year contract with Saudi Arabia. This achievement not only highlights his exceptional talent and marketability but also sets a new standard in the sports industry, inspiring athletes worldwide to pursue their financial goals.

Exciting news for fans of both 'Stranger Things' and 'Bridgerton'! Brett Gelman and Jessica Madsen have been cast in the upcoming Apple TV+ series 'Wild Things,' which is based on the popular podcast about the iconic Las Vegas magicians Siegfried & Roy. This eight-episode series promises to delve into the fascinating lives of these legendary performers, and with stars like Jude Law already on board, it’s shaping up to be a must-watch. This casting not only highlights the growing trend of adapting podcasts into series but also brings together talented actors from beloved shows, making it a significant addition to the streaming landscape.

The upcoming video game 'Invincible VS' is generating excitement with the announcement of fan-favorite character Cecil Stedman joining the roster. This addition, based on Robert Kirkman's beloved comics and the popular Amazon series, highlights the game's commitment to fan engagement. With eight characters revealed so far, players are eager to see how these beloved figures will interact in the 3v3 tag fighting format, making it a highly anticipated release for both gamers and comic fans alike.

The Round Top Film Festival in Texas is set to showcase a diverse lineup, including the Texas premiere of 'Adult Children,' a compelling dramedy featuring local talent Ethan Hawke. Running from November 6-9, this festival not only highlights the cinematic arts but also celebrates Texas's rich cultural contributions, making it a significant event for filmmakers and audiences alike.

As the Oscars approach, Variety's Awards Circuit section provides a comprehensive look at the current predictions for this year's top contenders. With many favorites emerging, the competition is heating up, making it an exciting time for film enthusiasts. This analysis not only highlights the frontrunners but also reflects the dynamic nature of the awards season, where surprises can happen at any moment.

Season 9 of 'Love Is Blind' has been marred by several controversies, including Nick's remarks about LGBTQ kids, early departures from the show, and various breakups among contestants. These issues have sparked significant discussions about representation and the pressures of reality TV, highlighting the challenges participants face in navigating their relationships under public scrutiny.

The latest translations of works by acclaimed authors Samanta Schweblin, Giorgi Gospodinov, and Jon Fosse are making waves in the literary world. These translations not only bring diverse voices to a broader audience but also enrich the reading experience by capturing the essence of each author's unique style. This matters because it fosters cultural exchange and appreciation, allowing readers to explore different perspectives through literature.