Dave Chappelle has never been one to hold his tongue—and during a recent performance at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, he proved that once again.
Known for mixing biting social commentary with sharp humour, the comedian didn’t shy away from tackling tough subjects. This time, his target? None other than DJ Khaled.
Calling Out the Silence on Gaza
During his set, Chappelle diverted from his usual script to call out the Palestinian-American music mogul for his silence on the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
“Khaled’s a Palestinian, and he’s been awfully quiet right now,” Chappelle said, in a tone that teetered between sarcasm and frustration.
The crowd responded with roars of laughter—but the message underneath was serious.
A Jab That Went Beyond Words
The comedian didn’t stop at Khaled’s silence. In a moment that shocked and amused the audience in equal measure, Chappelle added, “And why are you so fat? People are starving.
He’s the only fat Palestinian on Earth right now.”
While the joke drew laughter, it also raised eyebrows.
Chappelle’s mix of humour and blunt criticism left no room for ambiguity—he was clearly disappointed in Khaled’s decision not to speak out.
A Larger Conversation Around Responsibility
Chappelle’s comments weren’t made in a vacuum.
DJ Khaled has been under growing scrutiny from fans and activists who’ve noticed his continued music releases and upbeat public persona while avoiding any mention of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As someone who has often celebrated his Palestinian heritage, Khaled’s silence has puzzled many—especially in a time when visibility and solidarity are seen as powerful tools.
Even Family Isn’t Holding Back
Earlier this year, Khaled’s cousin, Fadie Musallet, publicly expressed his own frustration.
“There’s no excuse when you’re actually a Palestinian,” he said. “I put my heart into this.”
Musallet’s comments echoed the disappointment many others have voiced—particularly those who feel betrayed by Khaled’s lack of engagement given his platform and influence.
A Comedian’s Joke with a Deeper Message
Chappelle’s performance might have been laced with laughter, but his words cut deep.
The critique of DJ Khaled touched on bigger questions about celebrity, responsibility, and what it means to use your voice when it matters most.
Even if some found the jokes harsh or controversial, it’s clear that Chappelle’s set has reignited a critical conversation around silence, privilege, and accountability in the face of human suffering.