BREAKING: Comedian David Spade has launched a fierce critique against holiday events that omit the word “Christmas,” expressing his discontent during the latest episode of his “Fly on the Wall” podcast. In a segment aired on December 10, 2023, Spade expressed shock at a recent mall tree-lighting ceremony that deliberately avoided mentioning Christmas, calling it a trend that “takes a little bit of a beating lately.”
Spade, aged 61, shared his disbelief, stating, “It said tree-lighting ceremony, and they were careful not to say the word Christmas during the whole ceremony.” His co-host, Dana Carvey, echoed his sentiments, questioning the purpose of the event if it did not celebrate Christmas directly. “So it’s just a tree? … But to consciously avoid that, then what is the tree for?” Carvey asked, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
The conversation escalated as both comedians reflected on the growing trend of secularizing the holiday. Spade remarked, “I’d say stop that bulls—,” while Carvey noted that many people, regardless of faith, enjoy the festivities surrounding Christmas. This triggered a deeper discussion about the implications of policing language and the perceived anti-Christian sentiment in society.
Carvey, 67, emphasized that while Christmas retains its Christian roots, it has also evolved into a widely celebrated secular holiday in the United States. Spade agreed, stating, “I don’t like the thought police,” and lamented what he sees as a double standard regarding Christianity compared to other religions. He highlighted issues of Christian persecution globally, referencing a report from International Christian Concern detailing violence against Christians in nations like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Spade pointed out that this year has not been easy for Christians, stating, “This is not the year to be Christian.” His comments resonate with recent humanitarian reports, including designations of nations as “countries of particular concern” by former President Donald Trump and condemnation from various public figures, including Pope Leo XIV.
The backlash against “Christmas-free” celebrations is not isolated; Spade’s remarks follow a similar controversy in Portland, where the annual tree-lighting event faced criticism for avoiding the term “Christmas.” While the Mayor’s office later clarified it as a “Christmas Tree Lighting,” many felt the holiday’s essence was being scrubbed away.
Spade concluded his passionate appeal by asserting, “We can call it a Christmas tree,” stressing the importance of recognizing the holiday without offending others. His remarks have sparked widespread discussion, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts on the secularization of Christmas.
As the holiday season progresses, Spade’s comments are likely to resonate with those concerned about the cultural shifts surrounding Christmas celebrations. Observers will be watching keenly to see how public sentiment evolves, and whether more celebrities join the conversation about keeping Christmas at the forefront of holiday celebrations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the debate continues to unfold.
