Comedian Dave Chappelle told a sold-out Madison Square Garden audience he feels better since Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was killed, a remark captured on video that circulated widely online over the weekend.
The comment came during one of two back-to-back shows Chappelle performed as part of his “Karmageddon” tour. According to video posted late Friday, Chappelle told the crowd: “I feel fucked up saying this. It’s scary being a public speaker. And I mean look, ever since that guy Charlie Kirk got murdered … and I shouldn’t say this publicly but, I feel better.” The remark drew some applause and laughter.
He continued: “I know I shouldn’t say that but, it’s just a feeling. I didn’t ask to feel this way. I just be driving around like, ‘why am I in such a good mood? Oh!'”
The footage gained significant traction on social media Saturday night.
Background on Kirk’s killing
Kirk was shot in the neck and killed on September 10, 2025, while debating students at Utah Valley University as part of his “American Comeback Tour.” Tyler Robinson, 23, has been charged in connection with the killing. Utah District Judge Tony Graf ruled in September that Robinson could face the death penalty if convicted.
Kirk’s death prompted memorials around the world, including moments of silence from major sports organizations such as the New York Yankees, along with statements from heads of state and religious leaders. At the same time, some public figures, including medical professionals, university officials, cable news commentators and, reportedly, Defense Department personnel, made comments celebrating his death.
Chappelle’s remarks add him to the list of public figures who have spoken approvingly of Kirk’s killing.
Other fallout
Separately over the weekend, several companies — including Cash App, Chewy, Boll & Branch and Lola Blankets — cut ties with Jennifer Welch’s “I’ve Had It” podcast after Welch and co-host Angie Sullivan laughed at a tweet referencing digging up Kirk’s corpse.
Chappelle himself has previously been the target of violence on stage. In May 2022, he was attacked during a performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles; police said the attacker carried a replica gun capable of ejecting a knife blade.
Neither the New York Comedy Festival nor Live Nation, which sponsored Chappelle’s Madison Square Garden shows, had publicly responded to the remarks as of this report.
