HOOVER, Ala. (WIAT) — A scheduled comedy show featuring actor and comedian Michael Rapaport at the Stardome was canceled Tuesday night because of what the venue’s owner described as safety concerns.
The decision came amid planned protests over Rapaport’s vocal support for Israel. In a statement posted to social media, Rapaport said he was ready to perform when he learned the show had been canceled. He believes the backlash was tied to his public advocacy for Israel and for the release of hostages still being held in Gaza.
Rapaport did not say the cancelation itself was politically motivated but that protests and threats were planned because of his beliefs. Stardome owner Bruce Ayers said the decision was made solely in the interest of public safety.
“We did not do this to make a politic