Following allegations of sexual misconduct, Netflix has pulled comedian John Crist’s upcoming comedy special.
On Thursday, November 6th, Charisma News published a breaking story about Crist’s tendency to exploit and manipulate women over the course of the last seven years.
“The allegations include, but are not limited to, individually sexting multiple women during the same time period, initiating sexual relationships with married women and women in committed relationships, offering show tickets in exchange for sexual favors and repeatedly calling these women late at night while drunk,” the publication stated.
The claims were supported by five women who came forward about their personal experiences with the popular Christian comedian.
One of the victims, Kate (whose name was changed for her protection), explained that she was “truly blinded” by Crist’s celebrity status, which made her hesitant to believe he would do anything to hurt her or her relationship with her boyfriend.
“The one thing that stopped me from believing he was creepy is John so proudly parades his face as a Christian,” said Kate. “I’ve let myself believe that just because someone is a Christian means they won’t do something intentionally bad. But the truth is, John invited me to his apartment with the intention of sleeping with me after shaking hands with my boyfriend.”
Crist, who has openly admitted he struggles with sex addiction, has allegedly had a pattern of apologizing for his actions when he’s called out and asking for forgiveness. However, he’s never made as bold of a statement as the one he released to Charisma after they reached out to him about the accusations.
“I have treated relationships with women far too casually, in some cases even recklessly,” wrote Crist. “My behavior has been destructive and sinful. I’ve sinned against God, against women and the people who I love the most. I have violated my own Christian beliefs, convictions and values, and have hurt many people in the process. I am sorry for the hurt and pain I have caused these women and will continue to seek their forgiveness. I have also hurt the name of Jesus and have sought His forgiveness.”
The comedian also announced that he would be canceling the rest of his 2019 tour dates in order to devote his time to “getting healthy spiritually, mentally and physically.”
Crist’s Netflix special entitled “I Ain’t Prayin’ For That” was originally scheduled to air on Thanksgiving Day. The movie streaming service has put the special on hold until further notice.