Weird Al Shies Away from a Seven-Figure Saudi Show Over Ethics
Weird Al Yankovic revealed he declined a seven-figure offer to perform at Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Comedy Festival, saying he didn’t want money that would make him feel “icky.” He told TribLive he wouldn’t participate despite the huge payout, noting the festival’s controversy tied to the Saudi regime. Some comics defended performers who accepted money, while others criticized the event’s connections to human-rights concerns; it’s unclear if the festival will return in 2026. The piece also mentions Yankovic recently stepping back from an AI-ad deal as part of his principled stance.