Stiller Defends Comedians' Right to Take Risks Amid Censorship Concerns

According to a recent interview, actor and director Ben Stiller is worried about the current state of the comedy genre he loves. Stiller, known for directing the hit film Severance and starring in the Zoolander movies, says it has become more challenging for comedians to take chances and speak freely in today's climate.

"We live in a world where taking chances with comedy is more challenging," Stiller remarked. However, he firmly believes that comedians must continue to "speak truth to power and be free to say what they want." Stiller sees this as the most important thing for the genre.

Stiller's comments come in the wake of Disney's brief suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel over comments he made about the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Stiller was one of many Hollywood figures who spoke out against Kimmel's suspension, posting on social media that it "isn't right."

The Zoolander director has also resisted pressure to remove a cameo by former President Donald Trump from the 2001 film. Stiller says he's had people urge him to edit out Trump's appearance, but he believes "that was a time that existed and that happened," and he has no plans to alter the film.

As the comedy landscape faces increasing challenges, Stiller's message is clear: comedians must remain steadfast in their right to take risks and speak freely, no matter the pressures they face.