‘Canceled’ John Crist Has a New Book, Tour, and Comedy Special

The Christian comic brings his downfall into his new releases, while victims say they’re still waiting for repentance.

The aftermath of the scandal that shook John Crist’s career has become part of his comedy, turning his lessons learned into new material and his experience with “cancel culture” into a punch line.

This month, the popular Christian comedian released a full-length special on YouTube and announced a book due out in October. His debut Netflix special and his first book were pulled after a 2019 Charisma investigation uncovered a pattern of manipulation and sexual harassment of female fans.

Since returning to the stage and social media, Crist has discussed his downfall and four-month stint in rehab, even making off-the-cuff references to his alleged misconduct.

During a performance in February 2022, for example, a woman shouted at the stage from the audience. Crist responded, “Love you, girl!” before pretending to catch himself. “That’s how I got in trouble last time,” he joked. He posted the clip to his YouTube channel and social media, where he has built a fan base of millions through jokes and satire rooted in evangelical culture.

In a Q&A last weekend, the comedian also told his 1.1 million Instagram followers that he “wrote a book in 2019 but then I got canceled rip.” Crist said his upcoming book—Delete That: (and Other Failed Attempts to Look Good Online)—will recount the story from his perspective.

Crist has blamed his “own horrific choices” and apologized for disappointing followers when he had to step away to address “sexual sin and addiction struggles” and get sober. He hasn’t publicly acknowledged the women who say they were hurt by his behavior, however, and victims and their advocates say he has not apologized.

Crist’s ...