Entertainment
Comedian Cummings Sparks Outrage with Wildfire Conspiracy Theories
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Comedian and podcast host Cummings is facing backlash for spreading baseless conspiracy theories about the deadly wildfires ravaging Southern California. The fires, which began last week amid 90 mph winds and extreme drought conditions, have claimed 24 lives, displaced 92,000 residents, and destroyed over 12,000 structures.
While fire investigators continue to assess the cause of the blazes, Cummings has used her platform to promote unfounded claims, including accusations that homeless individuals started the fires by pouring gasoline into sewer systems. She has also targeted female firefighters, criticizing their qualifications and suggesting their presence hindered emergency response efforts.
“The amount of people I have seen waking up is really uplifting to me,” Cummings wrote in a TikTok post, which included personal attacks on firefighters. Her comments have drawn widespread condemnation, with critics accusing her of exploiting a tragedy for attention.
An ex-fan commented on her social media, “Damn. You’re falling into the anus of the internet. I thought you were a smart one.” Another supporter urged her to follow the example of comedians like Joe Rogan and Tom Segura, saying, “Take a note from Tom Segura and Joe Rogan, and move to Texas baby.”
Cummings’ recent pivot to conservative commentary and conspiracy theories has been seen as a desperate attempt to revive her career after her stand-up specials failed to gain traction on mainstream platforms. Her inflammatory remarks come as firefighters and local officials continue to battle the blazes, which remain largely uncontained.
Experts emphasize that the wildfires’ rapid spread is due to extreme weather conditions and prolonged drought, not the factors Cummings has cited. Her claims have been debunked by fire investigators and local authorities, who stress the importance of accurate information during ongoing emergencies.
As the fires continue to devastate Southern California, Cummings’ rhetoric has further polarized her audience, with many questioning her motives and credibility. Her actions highlight the growing trend of public figures using divisive tactics to gain attention in an increasingly crowded media landscape.