Dave Chappelle Mocks Charlie Kirk Trial Date at Madison Square Garden
The comedian’s quip about a 2028 trial date drew sharp criticism from radio host Charlamagne tha God and Kirk’s widow.
By Jack Weber ·
Dave Chappelle took the stage at Madison Square Garden in New York City over the weekend to perform his live stand-up routine. During the set, the comedian referenced the upcoming trial date for the murder of MAGA activist Charlie Kirk. Chappelle joked about the long wait until the court proceedings begin, noting the timeline for the case.
Charlamagne tha God reacted to the bit on Monday. The radio host expressed frustration on his platform, stating that he feels uncomfortable being a public speaker after the incident. He said, “I feel fucked up saying this, it’s scary being a public speaker.” Charlamagne explained that he does not find humor in people being shot and that he prefers not to deal with the energy of such jokes.
The reaction from the family of the victim was swift. Erika Kirk, who succeeded her husband as head of Turning Point USA, posted on X on Sunday. She described the reaction from various media figures as “beyond disgusting.” Her statement targeted comedians and commentators who treat political assassination as entertainment without naming Chappelle directly.
A judge set the trial date for June 21, 2028. Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing Kirk, will stand trial on that date. Kirk was 31 when he was fatally shot during a college event at Utah Valley University in September 2025. The announcement of the trial date occurred on the same day Chappelle’s joke was circulating.
Chappelle first addressed the death of Kirk in his comedy special “The Unstoppable.” In that special, he described Kirk as a “motherfucking internet personality.” He compared Kirk to Martin Luther King Jr., noting that both men were shot in the neck in terrible fashions. Chappelle suggested that the similarities between the two figures ended there.
Chappelle has not yet responded to Erika Kirk’s public criticism. His representatives have been contacted for comment but have not issued a statement. The comedian’s team continues to manage the narrative surrounding the weekend performance and the subsequent online debate.
