Dave Chappelle’s Transphobia Controversy, Explained

We are now one week removed from the release of Dave Chappelle’s latest Netflix special, with the ensuing discussion surrounding its content—particularly, remarks that have been widely deemed transphobic—showing no signs of slowing down.

The special, titled The Closer, sees the 48-year-old comedian once again giving stage time to the non-issue of so-called “cancel culture.” At one point in the special, Chappelle goes so far as to declare himself “team TERF,” thus aligning himself with an ideology that intentionally excludes trans women in the larger push for equality.

And while much of the ensuing dialogue has probably gone as expected, especially with regards to “cancel culture” claims, more recent developments came as somewhat of a surprise. Below, we take a look at Chappelle’s widely panned comments and the resulting pushback.