Comedian and staunch Israel advocate Michael Rapoport is facing a unique challenge from a Canadian politician aiming to prevent his upcoming stand-up performances in the country. Heather McPherson, a member of Canada’s New Democrat Party, publicly called on the government to deny Rapaport entry, citing his past “criminal history,” “Islamophobic speech,” and “inciting violence.”
Rapaport addressed these accusations directly in a column for "The Free Press," labeling McPherson's efforts as the "most bizarre campaign" against him yet, surpassing even the protests he faced from anti-Israel groups following his vocal support for Israel after the 2023 Hamas attacks. He clarified his past, acknowledging a nearly 30-year-old aggravated harassment charge involving an ex-girlfriend but denying any other criminal record. He also defended his stance on radical jihadists while reaffirming his commitment to speaking out against antisemitism.
Rapaport criticized McPherson for what he sees as misplaced priorities, highlighting a reported surge in antisemitic incidents in Canada since the 2023 Hamas attack. He questioned why her focus was on barring him from performing rather than addressing this rise in antisemitism or advocating for the release of hostages still held by Hamas. He pointedly invited McPherson to attend his shows, offering her front-row seats.
As of his column's publication, Rapaport confirmed that he had not been denied entry and planned to proceed with his Canadian performances. McPherson's office has not yet responded to requests for comment.
