Major Controversies Surrounding Louis C.K.: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Louis C.K..

Louis C.K., born Louis Alfred Székely, is a highly acclaimed American stand-up comedian, actor, and filmmaker. He has garnered significant recognition throughout his career, including three Peabody Awards, three Grammy Awards, six Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. His stand-up specials, particularly 'Live at the Beacon Theater' (2011) and 'Oh My God' (2013), have received widespread praise. Notably, Rolling Stone ranked his 'Shameless' special among the best stand-up specials of all time and recognized him as one of the top stand-up comics.

Sections (4)

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

2002: Misconduct Allegations at US Comedy Arts Festival

In 2002, comedy duo Dana Min Goodman and Julia Wolov claimed that C.K. had invited them to his hotel room during the US Comedy Arts Festival where he masturbated in front of them.

2005: Misconduct Allegation on Television Pilot Set

In 2005, comedian Rebecca Corry stated that when they were on the set of a television pilot, C.K. offered to masturbate in front of her and she declined.

2015: Rumors about C.K.'s Behavior Surface

In 2015, rumors about C.K.'s behavior toward women in his professional life began to appear on various websites.

March 2016: Critical Email Regarding the 2016 Presidential Race

In March 2016, Louis C.K. sent an email to his mailing list criticizing the 2016 presidential race, comparing Donald Trump to Adolf Hitler and labeling him an "insane bigot."

April 2017: Clarification of Comments on Donald Trump

In April 2017, Louis C.K. clarified his comments on Donald Trump to Stephen Colbert, describing him as a "gross, crook, dirty, rotten, lying sack of shit."

September 2017: Notaro Cuts Ties with C.K.

In a September 2017 Vanity Fair interview, comedian Tig Notaro cut ties with C.K., saying that he should address the rumors of sexual impropriety.

November 9, 2017: The Orchard Cancels Premiere

On November 9, 2017, The Orchard, distributor of C.K.'s upcoming film I Love You, Daddy, canceled the New York premiere of the film due to "unexpected circumstances".

November 2017: FX Cuts Ties with C.K.

In November 2017, FX cut ties with C.K. due to misconduct allegations, ending their partnership.

August 26, 2018: Unannounced Appearance at Comedy Cellar

On August 26, 2018, Louis C.K. made an unannounced appearance at the Comedy Cellar in Manhattan, New York, receiving an ovation and performing a typical set without addressing the sexual controversy. This return to stand-up was met with mixed reactions from fellow comedians.

October 2018: Jerry Seinfeld's Commentary on C.K.'s Return

In October 2018, Jerry Seinfeld commented on Louis C.K.'s return to stand-up, suggesting the public might feel C.K. hadn't adequately acknowledged his actions and expressing the public's expectation of a show of remorse.

2018: Repercussions from Scandal

In 2018, C.K. stated that the fallout from the scandal had taken him through "hell and back" and cost him approximately $35 million in lost income. His film release was cancelled, and FX Networks and Netflix cut ties with C.K.

December 31, 2018: Controversial New Material Leaked

On December 31, 2018, Louis C.K.'s new stand-up material, including jokes about school shootings, was secretly recorded and posted online, leading to media controversy and a divided reaction from other comedians.