Left-wing comedian Kate Smurthwaite has ignited a firestorm of criticism after targeting Oasis fans during her Edinburgh Fringe performance, branding them as 'white, male, and thick'. The controversial remarks, delivered at the renowned arts festival, have drawn sharp condemnation from audiences and fellow performers alike.
Edinburgh Fringe Set Turns Controversial
Smurthwaite, known for her politically charged material, took aim at fans of the iconic Britpop band during her stand-up routine. The comedian's comments quickly spread online, prompting a wave of backlash from music lovers and free speech advocates.
Audience Reaction Divided
While some attendees reportedly laughed at the jokes, many expressed discomfort with what they perceived as unfair stereotyping. 'It felt less like comedy and more like cheap shots at working-class music fans,' one festival-goer commented anonymously.
Industry Figures Weigh In
Several comedy veterans have questioned whether such material crosses the line from edgy humour to outright prejudice. 'There's a difference between punching up and punching down,' noted one established comic who preferred to remain unnamed.
Social Media Erupts
The controversy has spilled onto platforms like Twitter, where #OasisFans and #WokeComedy have been trending. Many users have pointed out the irony of a self-described progressive comedian employing what they see as classist stereotypes.
As the debate continues, the incident raises fresh questions about the boundaries of comedy in an increasingly polarised cultural landscape. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, known for pushing artistic boundaries, finds itself once again at the centre of a free speech controversy.
