Dave Chappelle surprised fans with a new stand-up special on Netflix called The Unstoppable…. It dropped late on December 20, 2025, right after the Jake Paul versus Anthony Joshua boxing match. Within hours, it shot to the top spot on Netflix charts in many countries.
The special runs for about 75 minutes. It was filmed in Chappelle’s hometown of Washington, D.C., back in October. He covers a lot of ground, from current events to personal stories. Much of it feels more like storytelling than quick jokes. He talks about performing in Saudi Arabia, the death of Charlie Kirk, and free speech in America.
The ending part got the most attention. Chappelle jokes about worrying that powerful people might try to control what he says one day. He compares it to what happened to Charlie Kirk. To make his point, he sets up a “code word”. He tells the audience that if he ever says “I stand with Israel” out of nowhere, it means someone has forced him to say it. Fans should ignore anything he says after that.
Earlier in the show, Chappelle defends doing a comedy festival in Saudi Arabia. Critics pointed to the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. He mentions that but then says Israel has killed many journalists in Gaza recently. He uses a high number, around 240, to make his point about selective outrage.
Reactions came fast. Some Jewish commentators found the codeword bit troubling, especially with ongoing tensions in Gaza. Podcaster David Bashevkin called it scary. Others saw it as Chappelle pushing buttons on media control and conspiracy ideas. Fans who liked it praised his honest take on power and who gets to speak freely.
Chappelle also touches on other topics. He slams Bill Maher for criticising his Saudi gig. He jokes about making big money there. Parts about Sean Combs and historical figures like Jack Johnson get deep. GQ magazine called the long closer one of his best recent bits.
This is Chappelle’s eighth special for Netflix. He has a history of tackling tough subjects. Past ones drew fire over transgender jokes and other issues. This time, the Israel references stand out most. Some viewers say he baits controversy on purpose. Others think he just speaks his mind without fear.
The surprise drop worked well for Netflix. People stayed up watching after the fight. Clips spread quickly online. Debates continue about where comedy ends and offence begins. Chappelle seems fine with the noise. He ends the special strong, leaving the crowd thinking.
For many, it’s classic Chappelle – sharp, long-winded at times, and unafraid. The code word joke wraps up his theme of staying “unstoppable”. Whether you laugh or wince, it gets people talking. The special is streaming now if you want to see the full context.
Chappelle keeps proving why he’s a big name in comedy. This one adds to the list of memorable sets. Viewers decide for themselves on the jokes that hit close to current events.
