Comedian Nick Swardson, renowned for his roles in Reno 911 and various Adam Sandler films, was escorted off stage 20 minutes into his comedy set at a Beaver Creek, CO venue over the weekend due to peculiar and confrontational behavior.
The 47-year-old, headlining at the Vilar Performing Arts Center, experienced an onstage meltdown. Witnesses disclosed to TMZ that while some attendees were unsettled by Nick Swardson’s conduct, others encouraged him. A video clip circulating online captures a woman in the audience heckling him, questioning, “What’d you smoke before the show?”
@NickSwardson just taken off stage after being bombed out of his mind pic.twitter.com/RvbklPGj78
— Sean Guy (@seanrguy) March 4, 2024
In another clip, Swardson is observed rambling and faltering through a Jason Statham impersonation, prompting the crowd to erupt in boos. Amidst the disarray, a woman can be heard saying, “I can’t take it, I can’t take it, I can’t take it,” before excusing herself to the restroom. During his brief stint, Swardson also referenced the late comedian Norm Macdonald, shortly after paying tribute to him on Instagram. “People often post about the passing of a friend or family member with sentiments like, ‘Don’t take people for granted’ or ‘Tell them you love them,'” Swardson wrote on Feb. 19. “Well … do it. Here’s mine. Miss you, Norm.”
Damn. Nick Swardson removed from stage and show canceled because he was too drunk to perform. Sounded like some people still wanted to see him. pic.twitter.com/Rd3SYgioWA
— Coach Duggs (@CoachDuggs) March 4, 2024
It seems that Nick Swardson was discussing Macdonald when the spotlights dimmed and his microphone went silent. Before being escorted offstage, he reportedly gave the audience a brief wave and flashed a shaka sign.
Following Nick Swardson’s departure, the venue’s director of operations addressed the crowd, expressing apologies and announcing refunds for ticket holders. The venue also issued an email apology to attendees, stating, “We apologize for the negative experience you may have had at this evening’s performance with Nick Swardson. Unfortunately, this show did not meet the Vilar Performing Arts Center’s standards as a world-class presenter of the performing arts.”
“Therefore, all tickets will be refunded to the original payment method,” the email continued. “Please accept our sincere apologies, and be in touch if there is anything we can do to further assist you.”
Swardson has refrained from commenting on the incident. According to his website, he has upcoming tour dates scheduled throughout March, with his next performance set at Comedy Works in Greenwood Village, CO.
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