Controversial appearance: Nizar remains in the Scala despite the Mockridge dispute

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The recent comedian Luke Mockridge's recent statements in the Podcast "The Germans" have made waves and have now also been associated with a planned appearance by the comedian Nizar. Nizar is scheduled to appear in the Scala in Opladen on Thursday, but the controversy around Mockridges comments have fueled the public discussion about this appearance.

In the said podcast, Mockridge dropped a statement that was perceived as extremely tasteless: "There are people without legs and arms that are thrown into a pelvis - and whoever drowns as the last one has won." His colleagues reacted with laughter, which led to a storm of indignation. Many, including prominent athletes such as the shot put Niko Kappel, have accused Mockridge to act discriminatory due to his statements. Kappel described this as "contempt for people" and called for a reflection on such statements.

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The negative response led to the television broadcaster Sat.1 stopped the show "What is in the box? The comedy quiz", which was originally supposed to be broadcast from mid-September. Mockridge himself tried to explain and apology: In an Instagram contribution, he emphasized that it was never his intention to ridicule people with disabilities. Because of his experience with people with disabilities, he said that the humor that is often practiced in such contexts was very important to him, and showed regret that his words were incorrectly understood.

The appearance of Nizar whirls up local debates, since not everyone agrees to their presence in the Scala. Critical voices from the population complain that such personalities should not appear in institutions that strive for a diverse and respectful program. A citizen expressed his concerns about Nizar's planned appearance in an email to the "Leverkusener Anzeiger".

The position of Nizar

The management of Nizar has reacted to these critical voices and defends the decision to maintain the appearance. They expressed that Nizar was known for his provocative humor and that a certain level of artistic freedom in a liberal society was essential. The artist himself makes jokes about many different topics and groups, and also referred to people with disabilities, but in a way that is not meant seriously. "It's all just jokes. Not everyone has to please, but just because something does not affect personal taste is far from a reason to cancel an event," says his management.

nizar's statement emphasizes its clear distancing of any forms of discrimination, be it anti -Semitism, racism or homophobia. His humor goals to question clichés, even if it sometimes appears provocative. "He knows that he provokes and polarizes with his comedy, but that is his trademark and he was booked by you. He is appreciated by his fans," clarifies his team.

The discussion also has an impact on the Scala itself. Operator Fabian Stiens admits that the situation is complex. It stands between the chairs because on the one hand he has a contract with Nizar and on the other hand he has to take into account social expectations. So far, Stiens has not planned to cancel the appearance and point out that the sale of the tickets has already been completed.

The debate about the borders of humor and the responsibilities of artists will be re -lived up by this incident. At a time when sensitivity to different topics increases, many ask themselves the question: Where do you draw the line between artistic freedom and respectful way of dealing with each other?