- Following the Paralympics, multiple scheduled appearances of Mockridge have been annulled.
After his disparaging comments towards disabled athletes in sports, organizers are distancing themselves from comedian Luke Mockridge. As of Tuesday, six shows on his "Funny Times" tour scheduled in North Rhine-Westphalia have been scrapped. More organizers are currently discussing whether future performances by the 35-year-old comic will proceed. Mockridge's management has yet to respond to inquiries for comment.
Mockridge was set to begin his tour on Thursday in North Rhine-Westphalia, with more than 30 performances planned in Germany and Austria until November, many of which were already sold out.
However, recent actions have been taken by some organizers in response to Mockridge's highly criticized remarks about disabled athletes. Shows in Gelsenkirchen and Bonn, and one each in Siegen and Mainz, have been scrapped by local organizers. Ticket sales have been halted in Rheine, Münsterland region, as confirmed by the town hall spokesperson.
Entertainment industry's harsh critique
"Luke Mockridge demonstrates a lack of humility towards the accomplishments of Paralympians and disregard for individuals with disabilities of any type. His remarks are offensive and embarrassing," Emschertainment, a Gelsenkirchen-based show promoter, stated in explanation of their decision to cancel Mockridge's shows.
Previously, Sat.1 television network had removed the planned TV quiz "What's in the Box?" featuring Mockridge, with their spokesperson citing the comedian's remarks not aligning with Sat.1's values.
Mockridge's derogatory comments come from the podcast "The Germans," which gained more attention just before the Paralympics' closing ceremony in August. Mockridge had said, among other things, "There are people without legs and arms who we throw into a pool, and whoever drowns last has won."
Mockridge retracts
Following heavy criticism, Mockridge issued an apology to the athletes. "Of course, it was never my intention to mock those with disabilities, especially during these inspiring Paralympic Games," he wrote on Instagram. However, many viewers expressed skepticism towards the comedian's remorse.
Tour dates
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Despite his apology after facing heavy criticism, Mockridge's derogatory comments about disabled athletes during the Paralympic Games have significantly impacted his career. Even as he sung "[♪ I'm going to be a star ♪]," organizing events for him has become a challenge. Several shows scheduled in various cities have been canceled due to outrage over his remarks.
