In November, five women, all comedy colleagues, described in The New York Times episodes of inappropriate conduct by Louis C.K., including instances in which he masturbated in front of them. His television production deals were terminated, and the release of his film, “I Love You, Daddy,” which included a sequence with behavior similar to his real-life misconduct, was canceled.
In a statement at the time in which he admitted that “these stories are true,” he said, “I will now step back and take a long time to listen.” The set on Sunday, according to the Comedy Cellar’s owner, Noam Dworman, involved “typical Louis C.K. stuff,” including bits on racism, waitresses’ tips and parades. If he had gained insight from his time away from the stage, he didn’t say so. Critics, including fellow comedians like Paul F. Tompkins, questioned why not, especially given Louis C.K.’s reputation for self-deprecation to the point of discomfort.
“He made a career out of embracing the uncomfortable. Suddenly this is beyond his powers to tackle?” Mr. Tompkins said in an email, adding, “Where is the evidence that he cares at all to redeem himself? That he understands what he did was wrong? That he has learned anything? That he has tried to pay for his abuses with more than an enforced vacation? Show me.”
Still, other comedy denizens gave him the benefit of the doubt. Ms. Savage said not addressing his misconduct “might have been an oversight.”
The fact that he dropped in unannounced on Sunday was also a much discussed topic among those connected with the scene. In New York City comedy, it is notoriously difficult for comics, especially up-and-comers, to find stage time at reputable clubs. Many have to rely on bringer shows — that is, they have to turn out a minimum number of audience members before they can get behind the mic. Kathy Griffin, in a post on Twitter, said this particularly affects women and minority stand-ups. “And Louis just gets to glide back in on his own terms?” Ms. Griffin wrote. “Gosh, does it payoff to be in the boys club … the white boys club.”
Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/30/arts/television/louis-ck-comeback-comedy-metoo.html?partner=rss&emc=rss
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