The Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia has turned into a contentious topic within the comedy community, drawing both participation from high-profile American comedians and significant backlash from human rights advocates and fellow comics. Comedians like Dave Chappelle and Bill Burr have defended their decisions to perform, citing personal experiences and highlighting the ease of free expression in Saudi Arabia compared to the United States. In contrast, others like Marc Maron and David Cross have publicly condemned their peers for what they see as a compromise of ethical standards. The festival has ignited a heated debate about the intersection of art and politics, with many questioning the validity of performing in a country known for severe human rights abuses. Social media erupted with commentary on the festival, leading to calls for accountability among those who accepted lucrative offers to perform, while some comedians shared their struggles with censorship as they declined invitations. As the event unfolds, the division among comedians about their role and responsibilities in such a context continues to widen.