Gig Cancellations Are Totally Out of Control

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Cancel Culture is dead. Not so fast.

Indeed, actors such as Kevin Spacey, Louis CK, and Jonathan Majors have resumed their careers, marking a setback for those who advocate strongly for social justice (often referred to as the “woke mob”). Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s re-election has dealt a blow to this group.

Has anyone been as aggressively canceled as the real estate mogul?

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m noticing a surge of productions being shelved across the cinematic sphere. Some of these projects, led by talented artists with Jewish backgrounds, find themselves in hot water simply for showcasing their abilities. Other times, the reasons for cancellation seem downright absurd.

Take No Surrender.

The Bruce Springsteen tribute act had arranged to put on a lively show at the Riv’s Toms River Hub in New Jersey on May 30. This date was initially scheduled last year, but everything seemed fine until Springsteen himself began criticizing President Trump during his concerts in Europe.

In the video, he states: “In my nation, there’s an unpleasant delight they derive from causing distress to American workers. They’re reversing significant civil rights laws that helped shape a fairer and more ethical society. Moreover, they’re distancing themselves from our valued allies and aligning with dictators, rather than those fighting for their freedom.

According to the New York Post, Tony Rivoli’s bar might have made him feel apprehensive or uneasy due to its conservative patronage expressing their views.

It is said that Rivoli reportedly canceled a concert that had been scheduled nine months ahead of time. He informed Brad Hobbicorn, the lead singer, that the performance was “not advisable under current circumstances.

Regrettably, the amount required for the Springsteen tribute was beyond our budget, as my social media team would have effectively promoted it. However, since Bruce has been quite vocal, we find ourselves in a difficult situation now and may not be able to proceed with the event.” (Rivoli wrote in a text message to Hobicorn obtained by NJ Advance Media)

It’s possible that the rocker’s followers wouldn’t hold the cover band responsible for his foreign remarks. Alternatively, people might appreciate a band performing the rockstar’s top tunes, despite having differing opinions on his statements.

Instead, the show didn’t go on despite a last-minute attempt to salvage the gig.

This isn’t an isolated incident.

A Chicago venue initially declined to show the unfinished documentary by Jewish rapper Kosha Dillz, focusing on campus antisemitism. However, after reconsideration, the venue has now decided to screen it.

Last year, a Seattle comedy club canceled four rebel comics due to their rebellious nature.

Michael Rapaport frequently draws Palestinian supporters who aim to disrupt his stand-up performances at various venues, often attempting to cancel his booked shows. They achieved this goal once with a comedy club in Chicago.

Just like Jewish performers Matisyahu (a musician) and Brett Gelman (known for “Stranger Things”), have experienced cancellations linked to their Jewish identities in the past.

Workers at the Alamo Drafthouse cinema in Brooklyn attempted to halt a showing of a film set on “September 5” this year, which portrays the Palestinian militants responsible for the murder of 11 Israeli athletes.

Some cancellation threats are deadly serious.

To maintain the production of his play “October 7”, Phelim McAleer had to employ security services due to concerns about its potential permanent cancellation.

The media has done a poor job of reporting on the aforementioned cancellations.

Worst of all?

In a more conversational style, could we find renowned figures such as Springsteen using their platform to speak out against the censorship of artists based on their religious identities? For instance, might he offer some of his stage time to address this issue?

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2025-05-23 23:03