Portuguese artists pull out of Jerry Seinfeld-headlined festival

Several Portuguese artists have withdrawn from the MEO Commedia a La Carte Fest in Lisbon, headlined by Jerry Seinfeld, citing opposition to his pro-Israel stance. At least six acts canceled, some hinting at a boycott. Seinfeld has become a prominent Hollywood advocate for Israel since October 2023. The festival announced cancellations without providing reasons, and Seinfeld did not respond to requests for comment.

Several Portuguese artists have dropped out of the MEO Commedia a La Carte Fest, a new international comedy festival in Lisbon headlined by Jerry Seinfeld, citing their support for Palestinians and implying opposition to Seinfeld's pro-Israel advocacy. At least six acts canceled over recent days. Actress and comedian Inês Aires Pereira announced on Instagram that 'one of the names' featured at the festival 'persistently defends ideas and acts that I consider indefensible,' adding, 'We cannot relativize or normalize a genocide.' The comedy duo Cebola Mol posted a graphic of themselves with a watermelon, widely recognized as a symbol of solidarity with Palestinians. The festival announced on Friday that performances by Tributo Pop and Conjunto Cuca Monga were also canceled without providing reasons. Comedian Pedro Tochas and visual artist Vhils shared their cancellations on Instagram without further details. None of the artists who withdrew mentioned Seinfeld by name. Seinfeld has become one of Hollywood's most prominent advocates for Israel since October 2023, visiting Israel in December 2023 to meet with hostage families and making dismissive remarks toward pro-Palestinian advocates, including comparing them to the Ku Klux Klan.