Comedian Dave Chappelle stated on Friday that he understands why President Donald Trump "gets mad" at CNN, during a live interview on the network. The comment came as Chappelle was asked by hosts Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen about his pride in being an American.
"Boy, that’s a loaded question," Chappelle responded. "Now I see why Trump gets mad at y’all all the time. Why would you ask me that?"
Chappelle elaborated that his pride in America stems from its people, or his "countrymen," rather than every governmental decision. He described a sense of camaraderie among Americans encountered abroad, comparing it to a "Fight Club" nod.
"If I’m overseas or around the world, anytime I see an American over there, we just give each other the 'Fight Club' look, because we live in a madness that only we really understand what it’s all about," Chappelle said.
Despite political divisions, Chappelle expressed optimism and faith in his fellow Americans, concluding, "So God bless my countrymen and let us make this country absolutely great."
Towards the end of the interview, Chappelle addressed Trump directly regarding Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. "And Mr. Trump, please leave those Haitians in Springfield alone. We love them. We love the Haitians," he said. Springfield had become a focal point in political discourse during the 2024 campaign following amplified claims about Haitian immigrants in the area.
Chappelle also touched upon his "summer camp" show in Yellow Springs, Ohio. He explained that the show originated in 2020 as venues closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and following the murder of George Floyd. He credited Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for allowing the shows to proceed, which have become a local tradition. Live Nation announced in June that the shows would return to Yellow Springs in July and August.