2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Times Dave Chappelle Addressed Social Issues Through Comedy
Comedian Dave Chappelle has never been one to shy away from saying exactly what’s on his mind.
Whether through his explosive stand-up specials such as the controversial “The Closer” or his candid interviews, he’s built a career on unfiltered social commentary wrapped in comedy. It’s that fearless approach to tackling race, politics, and culture that makes him such a fitting recipient of the President’s Award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards, airing live on February 22, 2025, at 8 PM.
The honor recognizes individuals who use their platform to drive meaningful change, and Chappelle has done just that—often sparking both laughter and debate in the process.
From calling out hypocrisy in the justice system to challenging America’s take on free speech, his work has consistently pushed the envelope while keeping audiences engaged. In celebration of the recognition, let’s look at five times Dave Chappelle used comedy to address major social issues.
Early commentary with 'Killing Them Softly' special
In 2015, the then 5-year-old special, “Dave Chappelle: Killin' Them Softly,” was ranked number six on Rolling Stone’s list of the 25 best stand-up specials and films—and for good reason.
Even early on, the comedian demonstrated that he wasn’t afraid to confront delicate topics such as police brutality, the danger of being the first Black president, drug dealing, and more.
Addressing Kanye West, anti-semitism, and power in his 2022 ‘SNL’ monologue
In one of his most talked-about moments, Chappelle took the “Saturday Night Live” stage in 2022 to discuss Kanye West’s controversial comments and the rise of anti-Semitic rhetoric in the media. While his jokes made audiences laugh, his monologue also served as a critique of power, influence, and the fine line between free speech and hate speech.
His take on the Flint water crisis
Chappelle has frequently brought attention to the injustices faced by marginalized communities, including the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. During his 2017 special “The Age of Spin,” he criticized the government’s lackluster response to the crisis, highlighting how events like the Oscars overshadowed Flint’s suffering.
While the comedian joked that he himself skipped a benefit event for the city, he ultimately donated $50,000 to support those affected by the disaster.
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Tackling LGBTQ+ and free speech in ‘The Closer’
Chappelle has never shied away from controversial topics, and in his 2021 controversial special, “The Closer,” the star explored conversations around LGBTQ+ rights, cancel culture, and free speech.
The special sparked debate, highlighting Chappelle’s dedication to tackling tough social issues through comedy, despite the risks.
A raw reflection on police brutality
Following the murder of George Floyd—a Black man who died after a white, now-former Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck and back—Chappelle released “8:46,” an unfiltered special named after both the time Floyd was initially reported to have spent under the officer’s knee and the time of birth on the comedian’s birth certificate.
Unlike his traditional stand-up, this performance was more of an emotional monologue, addressing police violence, systemic racism, and the weight of being Black in America.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
