Marlon Wayans Defends Friendship With Dave Chappelle While Supporting Trans Son

Marlon Wayans says he can support his trans son and remain friends with Dave Chappelle despite ongoing criticism of Chappelle’s jokes about transgender people.

In an interview with Variety, the Scary Movie actor said Chappelle is not motivated by hatred and is instead defending artistic freedom as a comedian. “I wouldn't hang with Dave if he was full of hate,” Wayans said. “I know Dave's heart, and his intention isn't to punch down.”

Wayans publicly shared in 2023 that his child, Kai, is trans and uses they/them pronouns. Addressing the tension between his support for his child and his friendship with Chappelle, he said he respects “both journeys” and believes he can help each side understand the other.

Chappelle has faced years of backlash over routines mocking gender identity and transgender people, including criticism from LGBTQ advocates and a walkout by Netflix employees following his 2021 special The Closer. Some of his material has also been amplified by conservative political figures and far-right commentators.

Wayans emphasized that he rejects anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and would not tolerate attacks on his child. “Transphobia is a form of hate. Homophobia is a form of hate. Racism is a form of hate,” he said. “If you think you're gonna bully my child, go somewhere else.”