Two California-based stand-up comedians, Jay Rich (legal name Justin Richardson) and Dauood Naimyar, are facing sexual assault allegations from two women, which have resulted in the cancellation of their comedy shows nationwide.
Comedian Chelsea Bearce alleges that Richardson drugged and sexually assaulted her in his vehicle in 2018. She claims they met at an Oakland dive bar for networking, but she experienced rapid blackouts after consuming less than a cocktail, suspecting her drink was spiked. Bearce stated she awoke in Richardson's car, paralyzed and unable to prevent the assault.
Separately, a Sacramento woman has accused Naimyar, 36, of raping her twice more than 15 years ago. The accuser, who was 17 at the time, claims Naimyar assaulted her in a Dublin hotel room in 2010 and again the following spring in a car, alleging he disregarded her refusals while she was in and out of consciousness.
Both accusers stated that recent national headlines about sexual assault lawsuits inspired them to come forward. To date, neither woman has filed police reports or civil suits.
Rich and Naimyar have both vehemently denied the allegations. Rich stated in a statement that Bearce's claims are false and that he has never engaged in non-consensual conduct. He added that he and Bearce remained friendly and worked together for years after the alleged incident. Rich expressed concern that false accusations harm real survivors and stated he is pursuing legal options.
Naimyar also issued a denial, describing his interactions with the accuser as consensual and friendly. He stated that his apology in 2018 was for immature behavior and an abrupt end to an encounter, not an admission to the rape allegations. Naimyar also noted that the accuser had exposed his roommate and parents' address, leading to harassment of his family.
In the wake of the accusations, comedy venues and festivals have cut ties with both comedians. The Comedy Underground removed Rich from promotions and a headlining gig. Naimyar had his tour dates canceled at venues including The Comedy Bar in Chicago and The Laugh Factory in San Diego, with other clubs implementing booking bans.