Chelsea Handler Denies Firing Comic Over Palestine Remarks

Chelsea Handler has denied accusations that she fired comedian Salma Hindy for expressing support for Palestine. Hindy, a Canadian-Egyptian comic, claimed on social media that Handler removed her from shows after she raised concerns about the situation. Handler countered these claims, stating that Hindy actually quit and that she had email proof. Handler asserted she would never dismiss an employee over political differences.

Further, Handler shared screenshots of her exchanges with Hindy. These communications appeared to show Hindy withdrawing from a performance and Handler approving travel reimbursements. Hindy had previously stated that she opened for Handler on multiple tours and had a warm relationship until she brought up Palestine. She alleged Handler ignored her concerns and removed her from three shows. Hindy also mentioned canceled dates and reimbursement issues, claiming her manager was told Handler wanted to dismiss her without explicit reason.

The controversy emerged shortly after Ed Sheeran removed Macklemore from his tour due to pressure over pro-Palestine statements made during performances.