Comedian Cancels Performance to Show Solidarity with Virgin Hotels’ Embattled Workers

Famous comedian Steve Hofstetter, 45, has decided not to show up at his scheduled performance at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. His decision aims to highlight his support for the striking workers of the casino property.

The January 4 Performance Has Been Canceled

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas’ workers have been striking for some time amid the inability to reach a new agreement with the casino leadership. While Hofstetter had hoped the strike would have ended by now, this doesn’t seem to be the case, prompting him to cancel his performance.

The original performance was set to take place on January 4 this year at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas’ 23 Oxford theater.

In an official statement, the comedian confirmed that his decision seeks to emphasize that he isn’t indifferent to the woes of the striking culinary workers at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. He promised that all tickets will be automatically refunded.

In the meantime, Hofstetter noted that he plans to host a show later this year. Set to take place in May at Wise Guys Las Vegas Town Square, this performance will make up for the canceled January one.

The Culinary Union Praised Hofstetter’s Support

Hofstetter’s decision was welcomed by the Culinary Union, which has been trying to negotiate better conditions for its members at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas for months now. While the workers of many other properties successfully renegotiated deals with their employers, the strike at Virgin Hotels continues.

While there have been some limited efforts to reach a mutually agreeable conclusion, the striking workers have been so far let down by their management’s lackluster proposals. Arguing that the employees are not striking in good faith, the casino leaders are said to have resorted to threats of permanent replacements.

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union, has previously appealed to performers, asking them to cancel their shows at the property. As a result, he was extremely pleased by Hofstetter’s decision to forgo the January 4 performance, calling it a “courageous stand for justice and fairness.”

Steve’s decision to stand with workers, many of whom are immigrants fighting for a better life, sends a powerful message that no one should tolerate corporate greed or mistreatment of working families.

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union

Pappageorge added that the Virgin Hotels workers are strong and will see their demands fulfilled and their contributions appreciated.