Jerry Seinfeld headline causes artist withdrawals at Lisbon comedy festival

Multiple artists and performers have withdrawn from the inaugural MEO Commedia a La Carte Fest, a Lisbon International Humour Festival scheduled for October 29 to November 1, 2026. The cancellations are linked to the presence of headliner Jerry Seinfeld, whose public support for Israel and controversial comments regarding the Palestinian movement have sparked backlash.

While some performers did not explicitly name Seinfeld, several cited concerns regarding “genocide” or used the watermelon symbol, an unofficial sign of Palestinian solidarity. Notable withdrawals include actress Inês Aires Pereira, the comedy duo Cebola Mol, singers Carolina Deslandes, Bárbara Tinoco, and Tatanka, as well as visual artist Vhils and comedian Pedro Tochas.

The festival organizers, including César Mourão and the promoter Last Tour, have remained largely silent on the controversy. Reports indicate that organizers are considering several options, including replacing the departing acts, maintaining the event with only Seinfeld, or potentially canceling the festival entirely. There are also indications that the organizers may pursue legal action against those who withdrew from their commitments.