A British comedian’s show has been cancelled by a theatre, following an accusation that his act included a joke that was anti-Semitic.
Reginald D Hunter is one of the highest profile comedians performing at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, UK. The Eastwood Theatre has dropped his show a day after Hunter apologised for what he called “an unfortunate incident” at the venue in George Square Studios.
The BBC reports that two Israeli audience members complained after Hunter made a comment about an abusive wife “like being married to Israel.” As they left their seats, they were heckled by other audience members.
It reports that the event’s hosts, East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure, said they cancelled the show due to “controversial comments.” It also defended “the freedom of expression of artists” and it expected audiences to “extend some latitude to many acts.”
They said “We have a commitment to our community, and to our values of diversity and inclusion, which we take seriously.”
Hunter wrote on social media that he regretted any “stress caused” but added “as a comedian I do push boundaries in creating humour, it’s part of my job.”
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