Bill Burr Torched for Defending Saudi Comedy Festival by Saying ‘The Royals Loved the Show’

Ahmad Austin Jr. Oct 2nd, 2025, 11:59 am

Comedian Bill Burr was roasted online for the way he defended his decision to perform at a Saudi Arabian comedy festival organized by the government.

Last Friday was the first day of the Riyadh Comedy Festival. Since the announcement of the festival, Burr — as well as a number of other big-name comedians — have been harshly criticized for taking Saudi money and accepting offers to perform. Critics have pointed to the Saudis’ curious investments in sports and entertainment, claiming these investments are nothing more than an effort to take attention away from the country’s human rights abuses.

Participating comedians also faced backlash from their pe

See Full Page