What was supposed to be a happy reunion on stage for comedy troupe Naked Samoans, has turned the complete opposite as their upcoming show faces backlash online.
The group announced their new show “The Last Temptation of the Naked Samoans” as part of the New Zealand Comedy Festival in May.
But it’s the poster/image promoting awareness for the show that has caused a stir on social media.
In the image, group members Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Mario Gaoa, Shimpal Lelisi, Robbie Magasiva and Iaheto Ah Hi can be seen gathered around Jesus as in reference to the famous last supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci.
In their description of the show on the NZ Comedy Fest website, it reads
“The Last Temptation of the Naked Samoans serves up a fresh helping of the group’s comic chemistry, edgy social satire and daft physicality as they tuck into irreverent parts of New Zealand culture and look at the way Islanders fit into the mix. This is the Nakeds’ first live show since 2018. Could it also be their last supper?”
The poster has since been deleted from the Naked Samoans instagram account, but has been shared around countless times on other social media platforms, with people sharing their anger towards it.
One comment said “Dumb post..we disrespecting the last supper too? Smh”
Another comment adds, “Never thought our own people would be this disrespectful, not sure why it was posted in the first place.” While another person described the whole image and show promotion as “tone deaf”.
But with its criticism also comes comments of support. Fans and followers of the group stand by the group showing their love and support on social media.
“People should know that this Nakeds style by now,” one user wrote.
Another wrote, “So many angry commenters at the blasphemy in a picture yet most of yous sin much worse. Deffs going to this show.”
The show is their first reunion back on stage since 2018, also marking 27 years since they first appeared on Comedy Fest.
We have reached out to the Naked Samoans for comment.
