British comedian Ricky Gervais, known for his edgy and often controversial humor, has recently come under fire for jokes made in his upcoming Netflix stand-up special “Armageddon,” scheduled to air December 25, 2023.
In a segment of the special, Gervais addresses the topic of terminally ill children in a manner that has been deemed insensitive and offensive by many.
Gervais’ routine includes jokes about filming video messages for sick children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He reportedly quips about not “bursting into hospitals” and asking children why they did not wish to get better. This particular joke has been criticized heavily, with some parents of terminally ill children expressing their distress and disappointment.
Gervais also used the slur “retarded” to describe terminally ill children, a choice of words that has been condemned by audiences and critics alike. This term, considered offensive and ableist, has added to the backlash against the comedian.
Despite the growing criticism, Gervais has defended his act, claiming that he is merely playing a role and that his humor should not be judged with the same seriousness as other art forms. He draws a parallel to fictional characters like Hannibal Lecter, suggesting that similar accusations wouldn’t be leveled at other artistic expressions.
The reaction to Gervais’ jokes has not been universally negative, however. Some defend his right to comedic expression, emphasizing the subjective nature of humor and the comedian’s longstanding reputation for pushing boundaries.
The comedian has faced significant criticism over the years, particularly for his comments and jokes regarding transgender people. One of the most prominent instances of criticism came from his Netflix special “SuperNature.” This special was condemned by viewers and critics alike for its jokes targeting transgender people, described as “toxic” and “transphobic.” The routine included controversial comments about transgender women and stirred substantial negative reactions online.
In addition to his Netflix special, Gervais has also faced backlash for his social media activity. In 2019, he was criticized for a series of transphobic tweets. These tweets targeted the transgender community following J.K. Rowling’s support for Maya Forstater, a researcher who was fired for her comments on biological sex. Gervais’ tweets provoked anger and disappointment from netizens.
These instances reflect broader controversies surrounding Ricky Gervais, often involving his approach to sensitive and contentious topics. His style of comedy, which pushes boundaries and often delves into provocative subjects, has garnered both acclaim and criticism.