Celebrities JohnMulaney ICE protests Minnesota standup postponedshows Minneapolis publicsafety USnews entertainment

John Mulaney Delays Minnesota Gigs Amid Safety Fears

John Mulaney Delays Minnesota Gigs Amid Safety Fears
Image credit: Legion-Media

John Mulaney has rescheduled his Minnesota stand-up dates after a fatal ICE shooting led to protests and security concerns. The shows will now take place in April.

John Mulaney has decided to push back a trio of performances in Minnesota, following a fatal incident involving an ICE officer that has left the local community reeling. The comedian was set to appear at The Armory in Minneapolis over the weekend, but recent events have prompted a rethink.

Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three who had only recently settled in the state, was shot and killed by an ICE official on 7 January. Good, who described herself online as a “poet, writer, wife, and mom”, has become a focal point for grief and anger. The officer involved, Jonathan Ross, has since been identified. The aftermath has seen protests erupt not just in Minneapolis, but in cities across the US. In Portland, Oregon, federal immigration agents shot two people the very next day.

Public Outcry and Escalating Tensions

The response to Good’s death has been swift and widespread. Demonstrations have taken over streets in Minneapolis, with similar scenes playing out nationwide. The sense of unease has only grown, as communities grapple with the shock and demand answers. Mulaney, observing the situation unfold, made the call to postpone his shows, citing the ongoing unrest and the risks it poses to those attending.

He addressed his followers directly, expressing his dismay at the circumstances.

“What’s happening in your city is heartbreaking,”

he wrote, explaining his decision.

“I hate to postpone shows in a town going through such awful challenges and such grief, because it feels unfair to the audience.”

Safety Concerns Take Centre Stage

For Mulaney, the safety of his audience was paramount. He made it clear that he could not, in good conscience, ask thousands to gather at a time when the situation remained volatile.

“Still, I don’t feel comfortable asking thousands of people each night to leave their homes, gather at the venue, and then make their way home when the situation is so unsafe.”

The decision, while disappointing for many, was made with the wellbeing of fans in mind.

Ticketholders have been reassured that their tickets will remain valid for the new dates in April—specifically, Friday through Sunday, the 10th to the 12th. Those seeking refunds or with questions have been directed to their original point of purchase or Ticketmaster.

Regret and Responsibility

Mulaney did not hide his regret over the postponement, acknowledging the disappointment it would cause.

“I am sorry to anyone who is disappointed. I know a fun stand-up show could be a nice distraction, but it doesn’t sit right with me to put anyone at risk.”

His message struck a chord with many, reflecting the difficult balance between providing entertainment and recognising the gravity of the moment.

As the city continues to process recent events, Mulaney’s decision stands as a reminder of the impact such tragedies have on communities—and the responsibilities that come with drawing a crowd.