Ben Bankas Kelowna Show Draws Controversy Amidst Cancel Culture Debate
Canadian comedian Ben Bankas is set to perform at Prospera Place in Kelowna, British Columbia, on March 19, 2026, despite growing calls for the show’s cancellation. The controversy stems from Bankas’s comedic material, which has been described as controversial and offensive by some groups.
Controversial Content Sparks Outrage
Bankas has gained a reputation for provocative humor, including jokes that have targeted various groups. Kelowna Pride spokesperson Candace Banks highlighted a pattern of material “trashing immigrants, Indigenous people, women, trans folks, queer folks,” according to Global News. Specifically, Bankas drew criticism for a joke comparing Winnipeg to an apocalyptic scene involving Indigenous people and for making light of the death of Renée Good, a woman fatally shot by an ICE agent.
Cancellations and Support for Free Expression
Bankas’s “I Said What I Said” tour has already faced repercussions. A show in Nanaimo was cancelled by the Port Theatre, which stated its support for freedom of expression within legal boundaries. Multiple sold-out shows in Minnesota were scrapped following backlash over the routine referencing Renée Good. Global News reports that Bankas joked about her death, calling it “good,” which drew widespread condemnation.
Prospera Place Responds to Concerns
Kelowna Pride is urging Prospera Place to cancel the upcoming show, arguing that it compromises the safety and comfort of the community. In a statement, Prospera Place acknowledged receiving feedback and stated that it hosts a variety of events presented by different organizers. The venue indicated that decisions regarding events are made carefully, considering existing agreements and public safety. Global News reported on this statement.
Bankas Proceeds Despite Criticism
Despite the calls for cancellation, Bankas has publicly affirmed his intention to perform in Kelowna. He posted videos online, including one wearing a Kelowna Rockets jersey and another showing him arriving in Kelowna, stating, “can’t stop me.” Global News detailed these actions.
Ticket Sales and Background
Tickets for the March 19th show at Prospera Place went on sale December 18, 2025, at 9 AM. Prospera Place and Select Your Tickets are selling tickets for $35.50, though prices are subject to change. Ben Bankas, originally from Toronto, Canada, now resides in Austin, Texas, and regularly performs at the Comedy Mothership. He has performed alongside comedians such as Tony Hinchcliffe and Andrew Schulz and hosts the “Bankas Podcast,” which features comedians from Kill Tony. He has headlined venues including Danforth Music Hall in Toronto, The Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Prospera Place and Select Your Tickets provided this background information.
As of now, the show remains scheduled and is reportedly nearly sold out.