Netflix called out over comedy special that contains ‘racist jokes and conspiracy theories’

Netflix has been called out for releasing a comedy special in which comedian Andrew Schulz allegedly calls the coronavirus “the Asian parasite”.

Journalist Seth Simons claimed the four-part show Schulz Saves America included a number of racist and inappropriate comments.

In a Twitter thread about the new series, he said: “congratulations to Netflix on releasing a comedy special that calls coronavirus “the Asian parasite” in the first minute and equates “lockdown loyalists” to lockdown protestors in the second”.

Simons added: “I guess I think it's bad for netflix to platform racist conspiracy theories.”

The streaming company describes the show as Schulz taking “on the year's most divisive topics in this fearlessly unfiltered and irreverent four-part special”.

The episodes cover the coronavirus, conspiracy theories, Black Lives Matter and a nation divided.

Special thanks go to podcast host Joe Rogan, who promoted the release of Schulz Saves America on social media, at the end of the special.

Journalist Jessica Valenti tweeted: “This is disgusting and dangerous and Netflix needs to answer for it.”

Some users also criticised Netflix’s decision to cancel the Patriot Act With Hasan Minhaj in light of Schulz being awarded his own series.

The streaming company celebrated the release of Schulz Saves America with a billboard on Times Square in New York City.

“That was a special moment for me,” tweeted the comedian.

indy100 has reached out to Netflix for comment.