Jim Gaffigan cancels Kennedy joke at Al Smith Dinner

In a recent appearance, comedian Jim Gaffigan revealed that he skipped a planned joke about Robert F. Kennedy at the Al Smith Dinner. This event, which is known for its humorous takes on political figures, took place amidst a sensitive atmosphere. Gaffigan collaborated with fellow comedian Ted Alexander to write his material. As the event approached, Alexander advised Gaffigan to avoid the RFK joke due to political sensitivities and the presence of certain audience members. Specifically, Kennedy was seated next to Cheryl Hines, an actress known for her sweetness and brilliance, leading Gaffigan to reconsider including a potentially damaging joke. The comedian expressed a desire not to offend anyone who might be inadvertently affected by his humor. Interestingly, this decision came shortly after news surfaced regarding Kennedy's digital relationship with journalist Olivia Nuzzi, which added another layer of complexity to the situation. The Al Smith Dinner has a history of political humor and roasting officials, which put Gaffigan in a challenging position as he navigated the fine line between comedy and respect for those present. At the same time, President-elect Donald Trump was also at the event, where he faced roasting comments from Gaffigan. The dynamics at such a politically charged gathering demanded careful consideration of what jokes could be made. Ultimately, Gaffigan’s choice to skip the RFK joke reflects a growing awareness among comedians about the ramifications of their words, especially in environments filled with political figures and notable personalities.