Ricky Gervais Criticizes “Virtue Signalling” Elites in Netflix Special

In his latest Netflix special, Ricky Gervais addresses the current state of comedy while openly criticizing “virtue signaling” among elites. The special, titled *Mortality*, debuted on a Tuesday and showcases performances filmed at the London Palladium earlier this year.

The New Era of Comedy

Gervais describes a decade marked by heightened sensitivity in comedy. He remarked on the peculiar climate where comedians feel pressured to second-guess their material. According to him, many individuals are overly critical, labeling various jokes as offensive.

• “We pushed back and we won,” he declares, emphasizing resilience against critics.
• He describes the influencers of cancel culture as “educated, middle-class, privileged elites” who dictate what can be joked about.

Controversies and Censorship

The comedian has faced numerous controversies over the years. His previous show, *Supernature* (2022), received backlash for comments related to transgender issues. Gervais clarified that his remarks targeted “trans activist ideology” rather than the transgender community itself.

In another incident, a petition arose in 2023 requesting Netflix to remove segments from Gervais’ *Armageddon* special focused on young cancer patients.

Cancellations and Creativity

Gervais expressed his views on cancellation attempts directed at him over the past 15 years. Coupled with criticisms from fellow comedians, he stated, “They’ve always failed.” Now, at an advanced stage in his career, he insists on producing material aligned with his preferences.

The Rise of Virtue Signaling

Diving into the topic of virtue signaling, Gervais explains its social rise. He mentions two primary methods people use to elevate their social standing:

• Demonstrating competence in a certain skill or trade.
• Exhibiting virtue or morality, often through social media expressions.

This capability to claim virtue without substantial evidence, according to Gervais, has transformed societal dynamics, allowing individuals to gain status by discrediting others.

Reflections on Morality

Gervais humorously remarked on societal morality, acknowledging human historical contexts. He candidly stated that he might have been a slave owner if born in a different era, yet claims he would have exhibited kindness.

Behind the Scenes at the Golden Globes

As a former host of the Golden Globes, Gervais praised the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for allowing him to express his humor without censorship. He shared a humorous revelation about refraining from a joke aimed at actor Jason Momoa, reflecting on societal perceptions of sensitivity in comedy.

Through *Mortality*, Ricky Gervais delivers a thought-provoking commentary on comedy, societal norms, and the complexities of modern-day virtue signaling, all while maintaining his signature unapologetic style.