Archive · 25 Jul 2026
Weird Al Yankovic Rejects Riyadh Comedy Festival Offer
Weird Al Yankovic turned down a big offer to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia.
He said he felt uncomfortable accepting the money because of the country's past actions and human rights issues.
Other comedians like Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle performed at the festival, which ran from September 26 to October 9.
The festival's organizer, Turki Al-Sheikh, has been involved in controversies.
Weird Al said he didn't need the money and didn't want to feel bad about taking it.
Weird Al Yankovic turned down a seven-figure offer to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival.
He cited ethical concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and past controversies.
Other comedians, including Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle, performed at the festival.
The festival ran from September 26 to October 9 and was organized by Turki Al-Sheikh.
Weird Al mentioned he didn't need the money and didn't want to feel bad about accepting it.
- Who
- Weird Al Yankovic, other comedians
- What
- Rejection of a performance offer at the Riyadh Comedy Festival
- When
- September 26 to October 9
- Where
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Why
- Ethical concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and past controversies
Ethical Concerns
Financial Incentives
Ethical Concerns
Ethical Concerns
Weird Al Yankovic refused the offer due to ethical concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and past controversies.
Financial Incentives
Other comedians accepted the offer, likely due to the substantial financial compensation.
- Event
- Riyadh Comedy Festival
- Dates
- September 26 to October 9
- Offer Amount
- Seven figures
- Organizer
- Turki Al-Sheikh
- Controversies
- 9/11, Jamal Khashoggi assassination, human rights abuses