Chris D’Elia Calls Former Comedian Friends “Spineless” Following His Cancellation

Chris D’Elia didn’t hold back when discussing how his comedian peers responded to his 2020 controversy, calling most of them “spineless” during a recent podcast appearance with hosts Jack Osbourne and Brian Trexler.

The comedian reflected on the fallout from allegations that emerged during the height of the pandemic and social unrest. “Most comedians are just pretty spineless,” D’Elia said. “Their whole life they’ve been the outcast. And they finally get some recognition because of laughter and it’s like I’m not letting go of that.”

D’Elia expressed disappointment in discovering who stood by him during the difficult period. “I was surprised by a few people,” he admitted, though he acknowledged understanding the reluctance of others to publicly support him. “When your house is on fire, you don’t want people running into it.”

The experience taught him a harsh lesson about human nature. “People can’t wait to hate you,” he observed. “They don’t look at you like that before that, but they can’t wait to hate you, man.”

Some colleagues offered private support while remaining publicly silent, telling him they feared backlash themselves. Others promised help but then publicly distanced themselves, which D’Elia described as “the worst.”

Despite the professional isolation, D’Elia credits his wife and two children with saving his life. “My kids made me have an actual reason to live,” he explained. Before becoming a father, he thought his career would provide his legacy, but fatherhood changed his perspective entirely.

The controversy hit during an already tumultuous time. “2020 was the craziest time, period,” D’Elia noted, referencing the pandemic and civil unrest. He admitted he initially thought he’d never perform again, imagining future conversations with his son about why he quit. “I would have to say, ‘Because I was scared.’ And that’s not okay.”

D’Elia sought treatment at a rehabilitation facility and began attending recovery meetings. He described himself as previously being “a liar” who used his behavior as a coping mechanism. “I was being deceitful,” he said about his past relationship patterns.

Returning to standup proved challenging, particularly given the heightened tensions of 2020. “Everyone was afraid to say anything wrong,” he recalled. He even received threats that made him question his safety on stage.

His 2022 special available on YouTube, addresses the controversy directly and represents what he calls “the hardest thing I’ve ever done artistically.” Following its release, D’Elia says performing became enjoyable again, though he developed thicker skin. “The worst thing that’s going to happen is you’re going to b*mb,” he reasoned, noting that concern paled compared to previous fears.

Now touring extensively almost every weekend on his “Go for It” tour, D’Elia has found new perspective. His wife’s unwavering support proved crucial. “Don’t let them win,” she told him. “That’s not who you are.”

The comedian emphasized that his children fundamentally changed his priorities. “They saved my life for sure, 100%,” he said. He focuses less on public perception now, recognizing that obsessing over others’ opinions wastes energy.

D’Elia’s message to others facing similar struggles emphasized that change is possible. “There is a way out,” he said. “No one has to live a life like that if they’re in it.”

While the experience was painful, D’Elia says it forced necessary self-examination. “When you stare at yourself in the mirror, it’s very uncomfortable,” he acknowledged. But he’s learned to balance performing with authentic living, finding that compartmentalization has become harder—and healthier—as he’s opened up emotionally.