ROY “Chubby” Brown will no longer be performing at the Pavilion Theatre in Rhyl next year, according to his management.
His management claim the venue - operated by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL) - informed them that his act does not align with their “inclusive programme”.
Brown is known for his crude and controversial humour, which has garnered both fans and detractors over the years.
The decision has caused mixed reactions, with some supporting the theatre’s move and others criticising it as an attack on free speech.
One supporter of Brown and his brand of comedy is Steve Jones.
He had the chance to meet Brown earlier this year and described him as “very much a gentleman”.
Mr Jones also pointed out that Brown has given millions to charity over the years.
For him, it’s disappointing to see such a popular act excluded from the theatre’s offerings.
He called those behind the decision “very small-minded”.
The controversy surrounding Brown's exclusion has predictably become politicised, with many accusing the decision-makers of being "woke" and overly sensitive "snowflakes".
Others see it as a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and less offensive society.
Another critic of the decision is Karen Wigley.
In response to the news, she posted a GIF of a snowflake with the caption, “Snowflake Offends”.
She believes that ticket sales should determine which acts are booked rather than the personal preferences of those involved in the theatre’s management.
In her opinion, those who don’t like Brown’s act can simply choose not to go and let the rest of the audience enjoy.
Some commenters have pointed out the apparent contradiction in the theatre’s decision to exclude an act in the name of inclusivity.
Nichola White asked if the theatre was willing to lose the money and tourism generated by Brown’s fans.
She said: "They need to get a grip. Does it bring money in? Does it bring tourists? Yes. Not liking him is irrelevant!"
Luke Packer remarked that the move was supposedly inclusive, yet it excluded people.
He said: "Being inclusive by excluding people. Makes sense."
One commenter who supports the theatre’s decision is Sadie Turner.
She believes that the theatre had to take a stand against acts like Brown.
In her opinion, it’s a no-win situation, with critics ready to condemn them no matter what they do.
Turner also criticised those who are blaming the theatre, saying that it’s a decision they made for their business.
Similarly, Andi Nicholas scoffed at the idea of inclusivity.
He believes that the concept has gone too far and that people need to “get a life”.
Sharon Shurmur noted the irony in the idea of inclusivity being used to exclude an act that many people enjoy.
For her, it’s about individual choice, with those who don’t like Brown’s humour free to avoid his shows.
Several commenters also focused on the trend towards political correctness and “woke” culture in today’s society.
Graham Mitchell criticised the Pavilions for promoting an “inclusive programme” at the cost of excluding those who appreciate Brown’s humour.
Christine Brute lamented the presence of “snowflakes” in Rhyl who can’t handle Brown’s foul language.
She said: "Chubby Brown is so well-known for his foul mouth, that's what makes him a comedian. Every comedian is different. If you don't like it, don't book it!"
Nigel Lanham echoed the sentiment, using the same term to describe how he viewed the move by the theatre as indicative of current societal trends.
Steve Jones said: "It’s very much an act that people enjoy going to see.
"So very small minded of the people who run the theatre in what is always guaranteed to be a sellout."
While some support the theatre’s decision and others express disappointment and disagreement, one thing is clear: the issue of political correctness and cancel culture continues to factor into the entertainment industry.
Household names like Ricky Gervais, Jimmy Carr, and Frankie Boyle have come underfire in recent years.
Whether or not it will impact the bottom line for venues and performers remains to be seen.
For now, audiences will have to continue to weigh their individual preferences against the preferences of those in charge of booking shows.
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