Faisal Kawusi’s “Viva la Diva” victory triggered a wave of criticism. RTL now takes a stand.
The RTL show “Viva la Diva – Who is the Queen?” is causing a lot of fuss at the moment. The show, in which seven prominent men don glitzy drag costumes, aired last Monday night (June 20) as part of an LGBTQ+ week celebrating Pride Month. The winner was Faisal Kawusi (30), who recently received harsh criticism for a joke about knockout drops on social media. RTL spoke up with a statement.
It says that the broadcaster distances itself “from the statements that Faisal Kawusi made on social media in April”. “Viva la Diva” was recorded in March 2022. “RTL stands for diversity and tolerance: together with everyone involved, we transport and celebrate this message within the framework of the show.” There is no place for “discrimination and disrespect”.
The background
The broadcaster Sat.1 recently ended its collaboration with the comedian. What happened? Comedian Joyce Ilg (38) posted a photo together with comedian Luke Mockridge (33) on Instagram over the Easter weekend. She wrote, “Did any of you guys find eggs? I just got a few knockout drops.”
A YouTuber commented critically on the post: “Almost died once from knockout drops. Not cool, Joyce. Again.” Faisal Kawusi then responded to that comment with the words: “Next time I’ll increase the dose, I promise.” Sat.1 immediately distanced itself from the comedian. Kawusi then temporarily withdrew from social media.
Source: Stern
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