Comedian Jerry Sadowitz was banned from performing his second show at the Edinburgh Fringe festival this weekend after a spate of complaints about his jokes.
The Scottish comedian performed at The Pleasance on the first night of his show, Not For Everyone, on Friday night.
Prior to the show, the venue issued a warning: “This show contains foul language and themes that some may find disturbing.”
Known for his controversial dark comedy style, Sadowitz even warned cardholders about his material in a previous video, referring to himself: “He’s getting funny. He will be rude.
“He’s going to do magic tricks. He’s going to make an impression. He’s going to get his dick out.
“He’s going to do anything, so make sure you go see him.”
However, it is said that both the audience and staff complained about the jokes made during the first show, prompting the venue to hold Sadowitz’s second night.
According to to the BBCPleasance Theater Trust said in a statement: “Opinions such as those expressed on stage by Sadowitz are not acceptable and The Pleasance is unwilling to be associated with such material.”
The director, Anthony Alderson, added: ‘The Pleasance is a venue that champions freedom of expression and we do not censor comedian material.
“While we recognize that Jerry Sadowitz has often been controversial, the material presented on his first show is not acceptable and inconsistent with our values.
“This kind of material has no place at the festival and The Pleasance is not coming with its second and final show.”
Addressing the venue’s decision, Sadowitz tweeted: “Had a show last night, 75 mins, thought it was going well. No strikes seen. Today I was told that my show has been cancelled. Good stuff. I’m really sorry for everyone who traveled to the show tonight.”
One audience member claimed to The Sun that Sadowitz showed his penis while on stage, but he is a magician and it is unknown if the genitals on display were a prop.
The Pleasance Theater’s decision to scrap the show, with some welcoming the move, while others claim it encourages censorship.
One tweeted in support of the comedian: ‘Ridiculous. Jerry Sadowitz has always been a scandalous voice. Would like to understand the reason for his cancellation. Would Bill Hicks or Lenny Bruce be viable today?’
Another agreed: ‘Why watch a Jerry Sadowitz show if you were easily offended? Jesus, comedy is slowly being choked, one joke, one show, one comedian at a time.’
But they applauded the theater’s move and weighed in: ‘This is quite right and proper.
“It is unacceptable in 2022 for comedians to voice their opinions and make jokes that people may find offensive.
“You wouldn’t find Janey Godley or Frankie Boyle with such filth and call it comedy!”
Cardholders can claim a refund of tickets purchased for Saturday’s show.
Metro.co.uk has contacted Sadowitz’s representative for comment.
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