"Don't Sit There": Carnival Answers R-Rated Comedy Show Complaints

Photo byNikolayFrolochkin / Pixabay | Cruise Fever

Carnival Cruise Line has issued a request to its passengers amid growing complaints about the content of its onboard comedy shows.

The cruise line's Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has suggested that guests who may be sensitive to adult humor consider their seating choices when attending performances at the Punchliner Comedy Club.

Heald, who regularly interacts with passengers through his Facebook page, acknowledged the increasing number of complaints about the comedy shows.

"Every week, every single week in the hundreds of questions that I answer, I always have somebody who writes and is not happy with the material the comedians use, doesn’t like the fact that an R-rated show is R-rated," he said.

The cruise line emphasizes that it offers a variety of entertainment options to cater to diverse preferences.

However, Heald explained that the nature of comedy often involves pushing boundaries.

"Doing stand-up comedy these days is harder than ever because of the world of offense that we all live in," he noted.

To ensure a more enjoyable experience for all passengers, Carnival suggests that those uncertain about the comedy content choose seats further back in the venue.

This allows guests to easily exit the show if the material proves unsuitable without disrupting others.

"If you think you’re going to be offended, if you’re not 100 percent certain you’re going to enjoy the show, don’t sit there," Heald advised.

Carnival offers both PG-rated and R-rated comedy shows. While the cruise line has considered offering adult-themed shows earlier in the evening, this is not currently standard practice across the fleet.

To prevent misunderstandings, the comedy club host typically provides a warning before R-rated shows, and clear signage is displayed at the entrance.

The cruise line's efforts to address the issue reflect a growing awareness of the challenges faced by comedians in today's climate, where sensitivities can vary widely.