Between Katt Williams’ scorched-Earth appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast and the controversy revolving around recent awards show hosts, it’s a wild time for comedians. While some have ignored the craziness and just kept it moving, others have very clear opinions on the chaos.
One of Williams’ biggest targets, superstar Kevin Hart, has had a tough time avoiding responding to Williams’ comments about him, telling The Independent that when you reach a certain level of success it “comes with the territory.”
“It’s not worth my time for a response or an engagement,” Hart said. “It’s extremely beneath me in the position that I’m currently in…I think those that can’t talk about those that can.”
Well, damn! I guess that’s all that needs to be said.
Elsewhere in the comedy world, Dave Chappelle continues to find himself in hot water for his repeated “jokes” about the transgender community. When it comes to his fellow Netflix star, Hart’s advice is to not watch.
“We’re just in a time now where the microscope is significantly pointed in the direction of the comic, and what the comic is saying,” he said. “But you have the option of just not watching someone you don’t find funny or entertaining. That’s something extremely simple that people are forgetting.”
It’s true that people can try to ignore Chappelle and his offensive comments. However, if someone keeps going out of their way to insult you and your peers, at a certain point you need to stand up for yourself. While Hart’s response is unsurprisingly neutral, the “Central Intelligence” star does admit that comedians need to be more cognizant of the power of their words.
“You have to be extremely present and aware of the damage that can come from words…But you have to understand that comedy does come with a shock factor,” Hart said. “Some comics like the idea of the shocking response that leads to the laugh. Some don’t. I just take it for what it is.”
I don’t expect Hart to criticize Chappelle because the “Ride Along” actor is very careful with his public persona. However, I do expect him to show a little more understanding for the people who feel like they’re consistently being mocked by an influential stand-up comedian just because he can.
And let’s get real, the “Chappelle’s Show” star is not making clever jokes or attempting to start a thought-provoking conversation. He’s mocking an already vulnerable community at a time when they’re fighting for their very existence.