Dave Chappelle has ignited a firestorm of debate after criticizing the state of free speech in the United States during his performance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. Speaking to an audience of over 6,000, the legendary comedian remarked, “It’s easier to talk here than it is in America,” drawing attention to what he sees as growing censorship and cancel culture back home.
Chappelle’s comments referenced conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, saying, “Right now in America, they say that if you talk about Charlie Kirk, you’ll get canceled. I don’t know if that’s true, but I’m gonna find out.” He went on to express concern about returning to the U.S., joking that “they’re going to do something to me so that I can’t say what I want to say.”
The irony of Chappelle’s remarks wasn’t lost on critics, given Saudi Arabia’s well-documented restrictions on speech and human rights. Media outlets in the country are government-controlled, and speech critical of the monarchy or religion is strictly prohibited. Comedian Atsuko Okatsuka even shared alleged contract terms forbidding jokes about the Saudi royal family or Islamic faith.
Human Rights Watch condemned the festival as a “whitewashing” effort to distract from Saudi Arabia’s repression of civil liberties. The event coincided with the seventh anniversary of journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder, further intensifying scrutiny.
Chappelle wasn’t alone in facing criticism. Fellow performers like Bill Burr, Louis C.K., and Kevin Hart also took the stage in Riyadh. Comedian David Cross slammed their participation, saying, “All of your bitching about ‘cancel culture’ and ‘freedom of speech’? Done. You don’t get to talk about it ever again”
In contrast, Burr defended the experience, calling it “one of the top three” of his career and praising the audience’s enthusiasm for stand-up comedy.
Chappelle’s remarks have reignited debates about the boundaries of free speech, the role of comedians in political discourse, and the ethics of performing in countries with restrictive regimes. Whether viewed as bold truth-telling or misplaced irony, his words have once again placed him at the center of a global conversation.
Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson is officially joining the cast of the upcoming sequel to Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married Too, bringing her signature intensity and charisma to the beloved relationship drama franchise. The announcement has sparked excitement among fans eager to see how her character will shake up the dynamic of the returning ensemble.
While plot details are being kept under wraps, insiders reveal that Henson will portray a successful therapist who enters the group’s annual couples retreat with her new fiancé—unaware of the emotional baggage and unresolved tensions that still linger among the original circle of friends. Her arrival is expected to stir conflict, challenge loyalties, and force characters to confront truths they’ve long avoided.
Henson joins returning stars Janet Jackson, Jill Scott, Tasha Smith, Malik Yoba, and Michael Jai White, all reprising their roles from the previous films. Tyler Perry is also back as writer, director, and star, continuing his role as Terry.
Production is set to begin in early 2026, with filming locations rumored to include the Bahamas and Atlanta. Perry Studios will produce the film in partnership with Lionsgate, with a theatrical release targeted for spring 2027.
The original Why Did I Get Married films explored the complexities of love, trust, and forgiveness among a tight-knit group of couples. With Henson’s addition, the sequel promises fresh energy, deeper emotional stakes, and a new layer of psychological insight.
Taraji P. Henson’s casting marks a bold new chapter for the franchise, and fans can expect fireworks—both romantic and dramatic—when Why Did I Get Married Too returns to the big screen.
The Lincoln Center Theater and Seaview have announced that Emmy-winning comedian Jerrod Carmichael (Rothaniel, Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show) and Emmy-nominated stand-up comic and writer Sam Jay (Pause With Sam Jay, Saturday Night Live) will join the lineup for The Comedy Series, a creative vehicle for comedians to develop new material and theatrical pieces, at LCT’s Claire Tow Theater.
Jerrod Carmichael Live on Stage at Lincoln Center Theater will play the Claire Tow Theater November 12-16. Sam Jay: We The People will run December 3-14th. As previously announced, Vir Das will perform his show, directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel, from October 29-November 9th.
We hear that one more artist for the series will be announced shortly. Please check back on The Humor Mill soon.
Fuse Media has partnered with comedian and bestselling author Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks to launch a creator-led initiative that will spotlight diverse voices and original programming across its platforms, beginning October 1, 2025.
The collaboration marks a major step in Fuse Media’s mission to amplify multicultural creators and connect with younger audiences through authentic, culturally driven content. Fredericks, known for his viral comedy, stand-up tours, and hit series Churchy on BET+, will develop and headline a slate of exclusive shows for Fuse’s subscription streaming service, Fuse+.
KevOnStage’s new lineup includes a mix of comedy, commentary, and lifestyle programming, with titles such as:
These shows will feature Fredericks’ signature humor and storytelling, while also platforming frequent collaborators like Tim Chantarangsu, Tony Baker, Angel Laketa Moore, Tye Tribbett, and Tahir Moore.
“This isn’t just a deal; it’s a chance to expand what entertainment looks like and who gets to shape it,” Fredericks said in a statement. “We’re making something bigger than content—we’re making impact.”
Fuse Media CEO Miguel Roggero praised Fredericks as “funny, unfiltered, and deeply relatable,” calling him a cultural leader who embodies the future of creator-driven entertainment. The partnership reflects a broader industry shift toward empowering creators to shape narratives and build communities around their work.
Fuse has recently launched similar initiatives with artists like Weezy and Big Freedia, reinforcing its commitment to elevating underrepresented voices and redefining mainstream media.
Fredericks’ resume includes producing Will Smith’s Will From Home for Snapchat, hosting Dads Just Don’t Understand for Facebook Watch, and contributing to A Black Lady Sketch Show on HBO Max. He also co-hosts the popular podcast Here’s The Thing with Angel Laketa Moore.
With millions of followers across social media and a loyal fanbase known as the “Stage Krew,” KevOnStage continues to build a media empire rooted in humor, heart, and cultural relevance.
Fuse+ subscribers can begin streaming KevOnStage’s new content starting October 1st. With this bold initiative, Fredericks and Fuse Media are proving that the future of entertainment lies in the hands of creators who know how to connect, inspire, and make us laugh.
In this episode of Box Seats, we discuss the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, as the Ravens get dismantled by the Chiefs, and we have to ask- will the Ravens miss the playoffs at 1-3? Or is it too early to tell?
We also discuss the game between the Cowboys and Packers that resulted in a tie, and the rest of the games from the weekend!
Plus the hottest topics in sports!
#NBAPlayoffs #NFL #NBA #NBATrades #comedy #comedygrind #NFLTrades #NFLRumors #NFLFreeagency #NewYorkGiants #NewYorkJets #TheClevelandBrowns #TheSteelers #TheRams #Eagles #TheChiefs #Dak #DakPrescott #DallasCowboys #Eagles #PhiladelphiaEagles #philly #Cowboys
Netflix is gearing up to deliver a knockout with its upcoming sports drama ‘Fight for ’84‘, starring Oscar-winner Jamie Foxx in a powerful lead role. Based on true events, the film promises a gripping story of resilience, redemption, and Olympic glory—set against the backdrop of one of the most tragic chapters in American boxing history.
‘Fight for ’84‘ centers on Master Sergeant Roosevelt Sanders (played by Foxx), a U.S. Marine tasked with rebuilding the national boxing team after a devastating plane crash in 1980 claimed the lives of its members. With just eleven months until the 1984 Olympics, Sanders must train a group of underdogs to become world-class athletes capable of bringing home gold.
The film explores themes of grief, perseverance, and unity, as Sanders earns the respect of his team and pushes them to defy the odds. Director Andrés Baiz describes the story as “deeply human… about second chances, rebuilding after loss, and finding strength through connection”.
Leading the cast is Jamie Foxx, who also serves as producer. He’s joined by newcomer Malachi Beasley in a mysterious role that adds intrigue to the narrative. Additional casting announcements are expected as production continues.
Behind the scenes, the film boasts a strong creative team:
Filming began in late September 2025 and is expected to wrap by December. While Netflix has not yet announced an official release date, early reports suggest a 2027 premiere is likely.
With its emotional depth, compelling true story, and powerhouse performances, ‘Fight for ’84‘ is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated sports dramas. As Jamie Foxx steps into the role of a lifetime, viewers can expect a cinematic experience that packs both heart and punch.
Kumail Nanjiani is stepping into the world of mad science and monster mayhem with his latest role in FX’s upcoming comedy pilot Very Young Frankenstein. Inspired by Mel Brooks’ 1974 cult classic Young Frankenstein, the new series reimagines the iconic parody for a modern audience—and Nanjiani’s casting adds a sharp comedic edge to an already stacked ensemble.
While exact plot and character details remain under wraps, Very Young Frankenstein is described as a fresh take on the original film’s premise, which followed Dr. Frederick Frankenstein as he inherited his infamous grandfather’s Transylvanian estate and attempted to reanimate the dead. The pilot draws heavily from the original’s satirical tone, blending gothic horror tropes with absurdist humor.
Nanjiani joins a cast that includes:
The pilot is written by Stefani Robinson (What We Do in the Shadows), who also serves as showrunner and executive producer. Taika Waititi is set to direct, bringing his signature irreverent style to the project. Mel Brooks himself returns as executive producer, alongside Kevin Salter and Michael Gruskoff, who produced the original Young Frankenstein. The series is being developed by 20th Television and, if picked up, will stream on Hulu.
Kumail Nanjiani has built a reputation for balancing sharp wit with emotional depth, from his breakout role in Silicon Valley to his Oscar-nominated screenplay for The Big Sick. He’s recently appeared in Only Murders in the Building and is set to star in The Wrong Girls and The Breadwinner. His addition to Very Young Frankenstein signals a continuation of his genre-hopping career, now venturing into classic horror-comedy territory.
With a dream team of creatives and a cast full of comedic heavyweights, Very Young Frankenstein is shaping up to be a hilarious resurrection of one of cinema’s most beloved parodies. Stay tuned—this monster might just come to life.
The internet’s favorite trio—Kevin Hart, Kai Cenat, and Druski—have dropped the official teaser for their upcoming horror-comedy Livestream From Hell, and it’s already sending shockwaves through social media. Revealed during Cenat’s record-breaking Mafiathon 3 livestream, the trailer teases a wild ride where a seemingly innocent sleepover spirals into mayhem.
Directed by Chrissy Fiorilli-Ellington and produced by Hartbeat Productions, the film follows three streamers whose live broadcast takes a sinister turn after a mysterious death, a shattered vase, and a SWAT team raid. The teaser is packed with slapstick chaos, frantic escapes, and the kind of unfiltered energy fans have come to expect from the trio.
Hart, who’s mentoring Cenat and Druski in their leap from digital fame to cinematic storytelling, called the project “a dope a– thing” and praised their chemistry: “It ain’t about me, it’s about y’all”.
No release date has been announced yet, but if the teaser is any indication, Livestream From Hell is poised to become a cult classic—and possibly break the internet all over again.
Watch the teaser trailer above!
Jay Ellis, best known for his breakout role as Lawrence in HBO’s Insecure, is officially joining the cast of Mindy Kaling’s upcoming Hulu comedy Not Suitable for Work. The series, which is currently in development, marks another bold and witty entry in Kaling’s growing portfolio of workplace comedies—and Ellis’s addition brings star power and charm to the ensemble.
Not Suitable for Work centers on a group of young professionals navigating the absurdities, politics, and personal chaos of life inside a high-powered, image-obsessed marketing firm. With Kaling’s signature blend of sharp humor and emotional depth, the show promises to explore the messy intersection of ambition, identity, and office drama.
Ellis is set to play a charismatic executive whose polished exterior hides a complicated personal life. His character will reportedly clash—and connect—with the firm’s rising stars, setting the stage for both comedic tension and romantic intrigue.
Mindy Kaling continues to dominate the comedy landscape with hits like The Mindy Project, Never Have I Ever, and The Sex Lives of College Girls. Not Suitable for Work is her latest collaboration with Hulu, and early buzz suggests it will carry her trademark wit, diverse casting, and unapologetic take on modern life.
Ellis joins a cast that’s still being assembled, with more announcements expected soon. The series is being executive-produced by Kaling, alongside longtime collaborator Howard Klein (The Office, Parks and Recreation).
Jay Ellis has been steadily building a versatile career, moving between drama and comedy with ease. In addition to Insecure, he’s appeared in Top Gun: Maverick, Mrs. America, and Escape Room. His role in Not Suitable for Work marks a return to the kind of smart, character-driven comedy that made him a fan favorite.
With Mindy Kaling at the helm and Jay Ellis stepping into a lead role, Not Suitable for Work is shaping up to be one of Hulu’s most anticipated new series. Expect office politics, personal revelations, and plenty of laughs when the show premieres in 2026.
NBC’s long-running procedural drama Law & Order is gearing up for its milestone 25th season with a major casting announcement: British actor David Ajala has officially joined the ensemble. Known for his commanding performances in Star Trek: Discovery, Supergirl, and Falling Water, Ajala brings a fresh dynamic to the iconic series as it continues to evolve for a new generation of viewers.
Ajala will portray Assistant District Attorney Nathan Price, a sharp, principled prosecutor with a reputation for being both relentless in the courtroom and empathetic outside of it. His character is expected to play a pivotal role in the season’s legal narratives, working alongside returning cast members including Hugh Dancy, Camryn Manheim, and Odelya Halevi.
With his background in genre television and dramatic storytelling, Ajala’s addition signals a deeper, more emotionally nuanced approach to the cases tackled in Season 25.
Law & Order, created by Dick Wolf, remains one of television’s most enduring franchises, blending ripped-from-the-headlines drama with courtroom intrigue. Season 25 is set to premiere in early 2026 and will continue to explore the moral complexities of justice in modern-day New York.
Ajala’s casting follows a trend of high-profile additions to the Law & Order universe, as the show continues to attract top-tier talent and expand its cultural relevance.
With David Ajala stepping into the ADA role, Law & Order Season 25 promises to deliver compelling new stories and reinvigorated energy to a show that’s never stopped evolving. Justice, it seems, just got a new voice.