Netflix Doubles Down On Dave Chappelle Defense: “Content Doesn’t Directly Translate To Real-World Harm”
Variety has obtained an email that Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos sent to staffers on Monday addressing the ongoing outrage (including a walkout protest scheduled for next week) surrounding Dave Chappelle’s stand-up special, “The Closer”:
“With ‘The Closer,’ we understand that the concern is not about offensive-to-some content but titles which could increase real world harm (such as further marginalizing already marginalized groups, hate, violence etc.) Last year, we heard similar concerns about 365 Days and violence against women. While some employees disagree, we have a strong belief that content on screen doesn’t directly translate to real-world harm,” he said.
“The strongest evidence to support this is that violence on screens has grown hugely over the last thirty years, especially with first party shooter games, and yet violent crime has fallen significantly in many countries. Adults can watch violence, assault and abuse – or enjoy shocking stand-up comedy – without it causing them to harm others”…
Chappelle isn’t stupid, so he had to know that weighing in on trans and gender issues would be divisive (if not explosive), especially given that his special is airing on Netflix, which has (until last week!) been regarded as a strong supporter of the LGBTQ community. Whatever you think of the controversy, I doubt Netflix is losing any subscribers over this, so all the drama is ultimately a win for them. Read the Sarandos email and full story here.
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