Major Controversies Surrounding Dave Chappelle: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Dave Chappelle—discover key moments of controversy.

Dave Chappelle is a highly acclaimed American stand-up comedian and actor. He gained significant recognition as the star and co-creator of 'Chappelle's Show,' a satirical sketch comedy series that ran from 2003 to 2006. Despite the show's success, Chappelle famously left during the third season. After a break, he returned to stand-up comedy, earning widespread praise and being lauded as a comedic genius. He is regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comics of all time.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

August 26, 2019: Release of 'Sticks & Stones' on Netflix

On August 26, 2019, Dave Chappelle's fifth Netflix special, 'Dave Chappelle: Sticks & Stones', was released. It generated controversy for jokes about Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, the LGBT community, and cancel culture.

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October 5, 2021: Release of The Closer on Netflix

On October 5, 2021, Dave Chappelle starred in his sixth Netflix special, The Closer. The special generated backlash for jokes some considered transphobic.

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November 2021: Auditorium Renaming Controversy at Duke Ellington School of the Arts

In November 2021, Dave Chappelle's high school, the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, was set to rename their auditorium in his honor. However, after controversy arose in response to jokes made in "The Closer", the ceremony was delayed.

November 2021: SNL lampoons 'The Closer' controversy

In November 2021, Saturday Night Live lampooned the controversy surrounding Dave Chappelle's special, 'The Closer', during its Weekend Update segment.

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December 2021: Threatened to Cancel Business Investments Over Zoning Change

In December 2021, Dave Chappelle told the Yellow Springs, Ohio, village council that he would cancel his planned business investments if it approved a zoning change to allow a multifamily affordable housing project.

February 7, 2022: Spoke against zoning change at council meeting

On February 7, 2022, Dave Chappelle spoke against the zoning change at the council meeting, calling the council "clowns" and reminding them that his business was worth $65 million a year. The council failed to approve the change, deadlocking at 2–2, with one recusal.

October 19, 2023: Comments on Israel-Hamas War during Boston Show

During an October 19, 2023 show in Boston, Dave Chappelle described Israel's actions during the Gaza war as war crimes. He also condemned the United States for aiding Israel and condemned Hamas for its October 7th attacks. Audience reaction was mixed.

May 2024: Statement on Gaza Strip in Abu Dhabi Appearance

In May 2024, in an appearance in Abu Dhabi, Dave Chappelle said that "genocide is striking the Gaza Strip amid the Israel-Hamas war", while urging Americans to fight antisemitism so Jews do not feel like they need to be protected by Israel.