Netflix is facing backlash as a petition to remove Ricky Gervais’ Netflix special “Armageddon” gains traction, amassing over 4,000 signatures. The 62-year-old comedian has stirred controversy over the use of ableist slurs in his stand-up routine, prompting criticism from various quarters.
Gervais has been actively promoting his upcoming project scheduled for release on Christmas Day, but a particular joke shared on his social media has ignited a firestorm of criticism due to its language and terminology.
In the routine, Gervais discusses making videos for terminally ill children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, referring to the children as “baldies.” He then goes on to say, “Why didn’t you wish to get better? What, are you f***ing r*****ed as well?”
The use of offensive language, especially in the context of children battling life-threatening illnesses, has drawn sharp rebuke from audiences, including reality star Ashley Cain, who tragically lost his daughter Azaylia to cancer at eight months old.
Cain expressed his displeasure, stating, “Some things are not funny, especially to parents that are left behind. You can get cancelled in this world for so much, yet making a mockery of dying children is ok? I’m so mad at this!”
Twitter and X viewers also weighed in, with one pointing out the irony of Gervais profiting from “Afterlife,” a show centered around cancer, and criticizing his current remarks. Another viewer condemned the jokes as the “most vile attempt at ‘comedy’” and emphasized that children fighting for their lives should never be a laughing matter.
In response to the public outcry, a petition titled “Demand Netflix to Remove Ricky Gervais’s Offensive Skit Mocking Terminally Ill Children” has gained momentum, collecting over 4,000 signatures.
The petition creator, a parent whose child battled cancer, described the skit as “disrespectful” and “deeply hurtful.” The petition argues that comedy should not come at the expense of someone else’s pain or suffering, especially when it involves innocent children facing life-threatening illnesses.
Comments under the petition echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for respect and protection for families confronting unimaginable circumstances. A statement from the charity Scope criticized Gervais’ language, rejecting his attempt to justify it and asserting that such content is both offensive and unacceptable.
As the petition gains momentum, it underscores the broader conversation about responsible comedy, the impact of language on vulnerable communities, and the boundaries that should be observed, even in the pursuit of humor. The controversy surrounding Ricky Gervais and his Netflix special brings attention to the importance of considering the consequences of language, especially when addressing sensitive topics such as serious illnesses affecting children.
