Comic Michael Rapaport Slams Canadian Lawmaker for Trying to Ban Him from Stand-Up Gigs

Comedian and vocal pro-Israel advocate Michael Rapaport has fired back at a Canadian politician who called for him to be barred from performing in the country. The actor and stand-up comic didn't hold back when addressing Canadian Parliament member Heather McPherson, who publicly urged her colleagues to deny him entry ahead of his Alberta shows this week.

Rapaport, known for his sharp wit and unfiltered commentary, invited McPherson to his performance, saying, "If you’re reading this, Heather, I have front-row seats reserved for you and the New Democrats. That’s a genuine offer." Clearly, he’s not one to back down from a fight—or an awkward front-row heckler.

McPherson, representing Canada’s New Democrat Party, posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on February 27, calling for the government to prevent Rapaport’s entry. She cited his "significant criminal history," "Islamophobic speech," and alleged "inciting violence" as reasons for her stance. She also tied her call to action to a rise in Islamophobia in Canada, stating, "All Canadians deserve to feel safe in our communities. New Democrats are calling on the Liberal government to deny entry to Michael Rapaport." McPherson’s statement concluded with a rallying cry against hate, though Rapaport would argue that her definition is selective.

In his response, Rapaport described McPherson’s campaign as the "craziest" he’s faced yet. He even compared it to protests from anti-Israel groups who’ve targeted his shows in the past, including a canceled gig in Wisconsin last year due to venue threats. He made it clear that, despite McPherson’s efforts, he has no plans to cancel his Alberta performances on March 6 and 8. "Luckily, at least for now, it seems Trudeau and his party aren’t listening. I'll still be crossing the border this week," Rapaport said.

Rapaport also attempted to set the record straight on McPherson’s allegations. Regarding his so-called "criminal history," he explained, "I have no criminal history other than calling my ex-girlfriend Lili Taylor too many times back in 1997. (I’m not ashamed; I was in love)." While this past incident—aggravated harassment—did lead to a guilty plea, he insisted it’s ancient history. On allegations of Islamophobia, Rapaport clarified, "My only phobia currently is of radical jihadists. I have a phobia of anybody who wants to kill, hurt, or dehumanize Jews." Leave it to Rapaport to turn a serious accusation into a punchline.

The comedian also called out what he sees as McPherson’s hypocrisy, accusing her of ignoring rising antisemitism in Canada while focusing her energy on him. He referenced a report of a 670% increase in antisemitic incidents in Canada since the October 7 Hamas attacks and questioned why McPherson wasn’t addressing this issue. Instead, he argued, she’s "spending her capital making pleas to keep me out, rather than fixing whatever is going wrong in her own backyard." Ouch.

Rapaport has been outspoken on social media following the October 2023 Hamas attacks, particularly against those he believes are sympathizing with Hamas or demonizing Jewish people. He’s made waves for demanding the release of hostages taken by Hamas and for criticizing what he sees as indifference to Jewish suffering.

Despite the controversy, Rapaport remains undeterred. He’s heading to Alberta with jokes in tow—and possibly, a seat saved for Heather McPherson. Whether she shows up is anyone’s guess, but one thing’s for sure: Rapaport knows how to keep the spotlight on him.