Mario Rosenstock Critiques RTÉ’s Comedy Direction and Censorship

Comedian Mario Rosenstock has publicly criticized RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster, for its perceived decline in comedy programming and what he describes as a culture of censorship. Rosenstock’s remarks came during an appearance on The Anton Savage Show on Newstalk, where he expressed concern over the broadcaster’s current state and its leadership.

Rosenstock’s comments follow a tumultuous week for Irish radio, marked by Ray D’Arcy‘s departure from RTÉ and Newstalk blocking Kieran Cuddihy from appearing on the popular Late Late Show. The comedian voiced his disappointment with RTÉ’s lack of comedy content, referencing a statement by RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst. Rosenstock quoted Bakhurst’s response to the absence of comedy programming, which he interpreted as an admission of defeat: “Oh, well, you know comedy, it’s hit and miss.”

In his view, this reflects a troubling trend within the organization. “I had never heard a head of a TV station saying that they actually gave up on making comedy,” he remarked. Rosenstock believes that the broadcaster is currently “financially compromised,” implying external influences that inhibit creative freedom. He stated, “I think they’re owned, in a sense, by the powers that be,” suggesting that there is a tacit agreement to avoid controversial topics for the sake of funding stability.

The comedian elaborated on the implications of this environment, indicating a significant impact on editorial decisions. “There is a chilling effect on editors and broadcasters who go, ‘why would we bother annoying people’,” he said, referencing sensitive subjects that are often avoided. He pointedly mentioned topics such as Palestine, Israel, and political figures like Micheál Martin as examples of what comedians feel pressured not to address.

Rosenstock, a seasoned performer with 23 appearances on the Late Late Show, also shared insights about his experiences with censorship. He described a pre-vetting process that he acknowledges occurs with many comedians, but he expressed frustration at instances where his material was rejected. “There have been other bits where they go, ‘We prefer, if you wouldn’t actually…We don’t need that. It’s a no,’” he recounted.

In response to Rosenstock’s criticisms, an RTÉ spokesperson refuted claims that the broadcaster has abandoned its commitment to comedy. They stated, “Any suggestion that RTÉ or Kevin Bakhurst have given up on comedy is simply incorrect.” The spokesperson highlighted recent efforts to bolster comedy programming, including the appointment of Mark Bignell as Commissioning Editor for Comedy.

Regarding the pre-appearance discussions on the Late Late Show, RTÉ maintained that it is standard practice for researchers to engage with guests prior to their shows. This statement aims to clarify the nature of interactions with performers, suggesting that feedback is intended to enhance the show’s quality rather than censor content.

The ongoing discourse surrounding RTÉ’s direction in comedy and the concerns raised by Rosenstock underscore a broader conversation about creative freedom and the pressures faced by artists in the current media landscape in Ireland.