While performing at the ‘Netflix Is a Joke’ festival at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, a man rushed the stage and tackled comedian Dave Chappelle, who, after the incident, cracked a joke that is going viral, and Chris Rock joke.
Comedian Dave Chappelle attacked on stage by a man with weapon
Late Tuesday evening, at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, comedian Dave Chappelle performed at the ‘Netflix Is a Joke’ festival. During his comedic set, a man charged onto the stage and tackled Chappelle to the ground, the New York Post reported.
ABC reported that the incident occurred at about 10:45 PM, near the end of Chappelle’s performance.
Security pounced on the man, who was subsequently removed. The attacker was identified as 23-year-old Isaiah Lee of Los Angeles. Lee was arrested by the Los Angeles police department (LAPD) and taken to a local hospital for minor injuries.
Later reports stated that Lee was booked for felony assault with a deadly weapon.
On Wednesday, the LAPD said Lee was carrying a replica gun that could eject a knife blade “when you discharge it correctly.” NBC reported that it was unclear if the man attempted to use the weapon.
It is unclear if Lee was searched on his way into the venue or how he was able to gain access to the stage, the Daily Mail reported, stating it raises questions about security at the Netflix show, which was the company’s first-ever live comedy Festival. Fans were required to put their phones away at the event but failed to spot the weapon.
After attack, Chappelle makes joke that goes viral, some not laughing
Following the attack, a video emerged that showed Chappelle leaning into the microphone and joking: “That was a trans-man.”
Reportedly, the quip garnered laughs from the audience.
Online, some critics accused the “Chappelle Show” comedian of taking a cheap shot. There has been an ongoing feud with Chappelle and the LGBTQ community being the target of many jokes.
In a previous Netflix special entitled “the closer,” Chappelle says he harbors no “hate” for the LGBTQ community.
“Oh, I’m jealous,” Chappelle says in the special during a bit. “I’m not the only black person that feels this way.”
“We look at the gay community, we go, ‘G*d d*mn it — look at how well that movement is going!” Chappelle continued. “Look at how well you are doing.”
“And we’ve been trapped in this predicament for hundreds of years,” Chappelle added. “How the f**k are you making that kind of progress?”
Chris Rock joined Chappelle on stage, makes Will Smith joke
Chris Rock, who performed earlier in the event on Tuesday night, came on stage, joining Chappelle.
“Was that Will Smith?” Rock joked.
