Louis C.K. officially returned to the stand-up stage but it wasn’t without backlash.  
After several unannounced and controversial stand-up appearances, the comedian 
performed his first official set at New York's Comedy Cellar on Monday night where 
he was greeted by protesters. According to social media posts from the ‘New York 
Times' writer Sopan Deb, a woman outside the Manhattan venue held a sign that 
read "When you support Louis C.K. you tell women your laughter is more important 
than their sexual assaults and loss of their careers." Another read “Does this sign 
make you uncomfortable, Louis?" Monday night’s set marked the first time C.K.’s set 
had been advertised since he was accused of sexual misconduct accusations during 
the #MeToo movement last fall. The ‘Louie' star had all but disappeared since 
he admitted to masturbating in front of multiple women without their consent, but 
the comedian gradually started making his way back into the stand-up circuit this 
past summer. Those appearances had not been advertised and were met with 
heavy controversy, with many criticizing his attempted comeback and the triggering 
effect he could potentially have on an unsuspecting audience. For this latest 
appearance, however, C.K. was advertised for both the 9:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. shows.
During his set, according to the ‘New York Times,' C.K. made reference to his 
#MeToo scandal, reportedly saying,  "So what kind of year have you guys had?” 
According to the ‘Times,' the show was sold out, and there were even people 
outside trying to get standby tickets. Inside, the crowd reportedly greeted the 
comedian warmly. 
Comedy Central also launched a weekly show with the Comedy Cellar called ‘This 
Week at the Comedy Cellar' and features comics who perform at the venue during 
the week. The show premiered on Friday, however THR can confirm that C.K. will not 
be featured on any upcoming shows. For more on this story, head to THR.com.
Until next time, for The Hollywood Reporter News, I’m Neha Joy.
