The Assignment with Audie Cornish Who’s Laughing in Trump’s Second Term?
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Apr 24, 2025 W. Kamau Bell, a comedian and director known for his sharp political insights, discusses the current state of comedy in the Trump era. He dives into the challenges artists face, especially with the recent changes to the White House Correspondents Dinner. The conversation covers navigating political sensitivity, the impact of cancel culture, and the rising influence of conservative voices in comedy. Bell shares personal anecdotes about the importance of authenticity and community engagement in the evolving landscape of comedic expression.
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Performing Amid Controversy
- W. Kamau Bell decided to perform at the Kennedy Center right as Trump took control, despite many artists canceling in protest.
- He used the occasion to speak truth to power, embodying his family tradition of community engagement alongside his career.
Cancel Culture as Marketing
- Cancel culture fear is often used as a marketing tool rather than a genuine threat.
- Comedians typically get canceled for offstage actions, not for their routine onstage material.
Comedy's Shifting Political Spectrum
- Conservative comedians historically hid their views due to business risks, but now openly claim conservatism amid cultural shifts.
- Comedy history alternates liberal and conservative influences, with current times cheering bullying styles.