Comedian Who Roasted Peoria to Perform in Pekin

The controversial comic is returning to the area after a previous roast of the city.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:39am

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A striking black and red abstract illustration featuring jagged geometric shapes and silhouettes, conceptually representing the controversy and backlash surrounding a stand-up comedian's upcoming performance in a community they previously mocked.A controversial comedian's return to the Peoria area sparks concerns about reigniting community tensions.Peoria Today

A comedian who gained attention for roasting the city of Peoria during a comedy special in 2024 is now scheduled to perform a show in the nearby town of Pekin. The performance is expected to draw both interest and controversy from local residents.

Why it matters

The comedian's previous comments about Peoria were seen as harsh by many in the community, sparking backlash. Their return to the region raises questions about how the new performance will be received and whether it will reignite tensions.

The details

The unnamed comedian gained notoriety in 2024 for a comedy special that included several unflattering jokes and observations about the city of Peoria, Illinois. The comments were seen by many as mean-spirited and disrespectful towards the community. Now, the same comedian is scheduled to perform a show in the nearby town of Pekin on April 15, 2026.

  • The comedian's controversial Peoria roast took place in 2024.
  • The upcoming Pekin performance is scheduled for April 15, 2026.

The players

Romando Dixson

The executive editor of the Peoria Journal Star newspaper, which covers the local community.

The unnamed comedian

A stand-up comic who gained attention for roasting the city of Peoria in a 2024 comedy special.

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What they’re saying

“We don't need to do that again”

— Romando Dixson, Journal Star executive editor

The takeaway

The comedian's return to the Peoria area raises concerns about whether their new performance will reignite tensions and controversy within the local community, which is still grappling with the fallout from the previous roast.