UPDATE: Comedian David Spade has sparked controversy with his recent comments about holiday celebrations during a tree-lighting ceremony, voicing his dismay over the absence of the word “Christmas.” During a Sunday episode of his podcast “Fly on the Wall” with Dana Carvey, Spade expressed outrage at organizers who, in his view, deliberately avoided mentioning Christmas at a ceremony celebrating a Christmas tree.
Spade, 61, revealed his shock as he witnessed the ceremony unfold, stating, “I will say that Christmas is taking a little bit of a beating lately.” He emphasized that the event, held in a mall, was titled merely as a “tree-lighting ceremony,” prompting his disbelief. “So it’s just a tree? … But to consciously avoid that, then what is the tree for?” he asked, questioning the significance of the holiday without its name.
The discussion quickly escalated, with both comedians agreeing that they had never encountered anyone from other faiths who felt offended by the presence of a Christmas tree. “I’d say stop that bulls—,” Spade declared, echoing Carvey’s sentiments that “everyone loves Santa and the tree and all the trappings.”
As the conversation evolved, Carvey, 67, pointed out that the holiday has taken on a more secular tone in the United States, suggesting that while it holds religious significance for Christians, it is widely celebrated as a fun holiday for everyone. Spade pushed back against what he sees as increasing censorship around holiday language, stating, “I don’t like the thought police.” He expressed concern over what he perceives as a growing “anti-Christian feel” in society.
Spade further highlighted the disparity in how Christianity is treated compared to other religions, questioning, “Is this where we get the hammer? You can’t say that about anyone else.” His comments came alongside a discussion about rising violence against Christians globally, referencing a report from International Christian Concern that documented severe persecution in countries like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Spade noted, “This is not the year to be Christian,” citing humanitarian organizations warning of increasing violence.
Returning to his original point, Spade emphasized, “We can call it a Christmas tree.” He reiterated his desire not to offend anyone but maintained that the celebration should embrace its traditional roots. His outburst follows similar backlash in Portland, where a recent tree-lighting event also omitted the word “Christmas.” Critics accused the city of erasing the holiday, although Mayor Keith Wilson‘s office later clarified it was indeed a “Christmas Tree Lighting,” dismissing the controversy.
This heated debate surrounding holiday terminology continues to resonate with audiences, as Spade’s remarks highlight a broader cultural tension regarding the celebration of Christmas in a diverse society. As the holiday season approaches, discussions on inclusivity versus tradition are likely to intensify.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as public reactions unfold and further discussions arise within communities nationwide.
