Netflix Removes "Chappelle's Show" at Dave's Request, He Doesn't Get Royalties

"Boycott Chappelle's Show. Do not watch it unless they pay me".

Comedian Dave Chappelle said Tuesday that Netflix agreed to take his sketch series Chappelle's Show off its platform in observance of an ongoing dispute he has with ViacomCBS, which owns the show.

Chappelle posted a long video explaining the situation on to Instagram today, filmed during a stand-up performance. I didn't think so either. And he was surprised to discover Chappelle's Show streaming there - as well as on HBO Max - because he did not approve the decisions, or get paid for them. "I signed a contract, but I signed a contract the way that a 28-year-old expectant father that was broke signs a contract". But is that right?

"It's so complicated, in fact, that when you're a kid like me, you have to hire somebody to tell you what that means, and you sit down and the table, and you do the contract game". I didn't think so either.

'That's why I like working for Netflix.... when I found out they were streaming Chappelle's Show, I was furious. "You should hear the terminology they say in these contracts, 'to use your name and likeness in perpetuity throughout the universe.' Who the f**k could possibly know what that means?" So you know what I did? I called them and I told them that this makes me feel bad. And you want to know what they did? They just took it. That's why I like working for Netflix. I didn't think so either. He says that sites that license the show from the rights holders, ViacomCBS, are essentially "fencing stolen goods".

As of now Chappelle's Show is still streaming on HBO Max, along with ViacomCBS's CBS All Access and Comedy Central streaming platforms. I'm begging you - if you ever liked me, if you ever think there was anything worthwhile about me, I'm begging you, please don't watch that show. I'm not asking you to boycott any network - boycott me.

Chappelle now has a deal with Netflix for stand-up specials, and he lauded the company for honoring his request to have Chappelle's Show removed from the streamer.

In wanting to continue making an example of the affair, Chappelle spoke directly to his fans while on Saturday Night Live earlier this month.

Chappelle's show was not available to Netflix subscribers in the United Kingdom, even before this row flared up.