Australian comedian Julian Woods has defended a recent skit that mocks the September 11 terrorist attacks, stating that making people uncomfortable is his goal and that no topic is off-limits. The video, shared on his Instagram account, shows Woods approaching a stranger, making a joke about the World Trade Center, and displaying a fake bomb.
Woods told the Daily Mail that he enjoys provoking reactions and that while some fans threatened to unfollow him, he has not seen a drop in his follower count. "I love making people laugh and then watching them try and shove the laughs back in," Woods said. He added, "I joke about what's wrong because I know what's right. I like to make people laugh then feel bad about it after."
He also referenced Ricky Gervais, stating, "Just because you're offended doesn't mean you're right." Woods suggested that those threatening to unfollow likely followed him for laughing at jokes about other sensitive topics, questioning their logic.
Woods previously gained attention in December when he was arrested in Bali alongside British adult film performer Bonnie Blue. He was investigated for allegedly violating Indonesian morality laws but maintained he did not film pornography with Blue. Woods has hinted that he might be the father of Blue's newborn child, born in August. "A bit scary though, roughly nine months from when we were in Bali?! I should change my name to Clyde by the sounds of it," he commented.
He clarified that his work with Blue was limited to comedy skits. "We stayed in touch, I helped write some jokes for her videos and appearances and we've caught up at Coachella and Bali to make skits," Woods stated.
The comedian also drew attention in July for a night out with reality television personality Skye Wheatley. Woods, however, did not directly address dating rumors, instead joking about Wheatley's recent drink-driving conviction: "I was teaching her how to drive. Turns out I failed on that one."
The 9/11 skit, which included the line "Never Forget. 25th anniversary!" alongside a plane emoji, prompted significant criticism online, with many users calling the joke "vile" and "tasteless." One commenter wrote, "Stop making jokes about 9/11. I lost my uncle on that day," while another questioned, "Do you really think that is funny?!!"
However, some of Woods' followers supported his dark humor. "This is brilliant," one user commented, while another called him a "legend." Woods acknowledged that not everyone needs to find his jokes funny, but they should understand the nature of a comedian's work.
Despite frequent criticism, including for a previous miscarriage skit, Woods stated that his family and friends support his career. He is planning a new tour across Australia, the UK, Europe, and America and is in discussions with streaming platforms. Woods expressed a desire to achieve the level of fame reached by fellow Australian comedian Chris Lilley, whom he called a motivation for his "Cancel Me World Tour."