Lesbian comedian Jessica Kirson has issued a public apology for performing at a comedy festival in Saudi Arabia — a country where queer rights are nearly nonexistent. Kirson appeared at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, part of the Saudi government’s Vision 2030 initiative aimed at promoting cultural events.
But critics have condemned the effort as an attempt to whitewash the kingdom’s record on human rights, particularly its harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Homosexuality remains illegal in Saudi Arabia and can be punishable by death. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Kirson said she was surprised to be invited, given her openness about being Jewish and lesbian. She asked organizers if she could “be openly out on stage and perform gay material,” and they agreed. Her September 29 performance reportedly marked the first open acknowledgment of queer identity in a Saudi venue. Still, Kirson says the decision has “weighed heavily” on her.
She told Hollywood Reporter,
“I deeply regret performing under a government that violates human rights.”
Kirson also mentioned donating her festival fee to a human rights group. She hopes her apology sparks dialogue about how artists can use their platforms responsibly.
