Comedians Protest Jerry Seinfeld at Lisbon Festival

Several Portuguese performers have withdrawn from the upcoming MEO Commedia a La Carte Fest in Lisbon, citing comedian Jerry Seinfeld's public support for Israel as the reason for their protest. The festival, scheduled to run from October 29 to November 1, 2026, is set to feature Seinfeld as its headline act for his first performance in Portugal. At least six acts, including comedians, musicians, and artists, have canceled their participation. Actress and comedian Inês Aires Pereira announced her withdrawal, stating that she could not appear at an event alongside someone whose positions she considered indefensible. She added that "we cannot relativize or normalize a genocide." The comedy duo Cebola Mol, comprising Eduardo Madeira and Filipe Homem Fonseca, also pulled out, posting an image of a watermelon, a symbol widely used to express solidarity with the Palestinian cause, and stating, "We will celebrate justice, freedom and joy with you on another occasion.