Professional critics gave it a much lower approval rating (around 40%), with some describing it as "joyless" or "preachy".
Despite the controversy, the special received multiple accolades, including two Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) and Outstanding Directing. Dave Chappelle: The Closer
Chappelle spent significant portions of the special addressing his history with the LGBTQ+ community, specifically making jokes about gender identity and transgender people. Professional critics gave it a much lower approval