Carnival Cruise Line is facing mounting criticism following the sudden dismissal of Derrick Eason, a longtime comedian and U.S. Navy veteran who had performed with the company for more than 20 years. The firing occurred after a disruptive comedy show on board the Carnival Magic, where Eason attempted to manage an increasingly volatile situation involving an unruly guest—without any security present.
Eason, known for his sharp crowd work and New York-style humor, was in the middle of a performance when a passenger repeatedly interrupted the show, reportedly trying to perform jokes and derail the act. Despite being warned multiple times by both the host and Eason, the heckler continued to disrupt the show. Eyewitnesses say the guest eventually stormed the stage while security remained absent. Only after the crowd began shouting and the scene escalated did security finally intervene—too late, according to passengers.
One guest who witnessed the incident described the scene:
“The guest that was heckling him was warned too many times and security wasn’t called until all hell broke loose. He was on stage before the show trying to act like a comedian. He was warned again and again, but nothing happened. It wasn’t until Derrick started roasting him and things got loud that security finally showed up.”
Shortly after the incident, Eason was fired and disembarked mid-cruise, prompting confusion and backlash from fellow passengers and longtime fans. Many were quick to highlight the lack of support for the comedian, especially after his years of service with Carnival.
In a statement to YouTube channel Boat Breakers, Eason shared his side of the story:
“This incident happened while I was onstage. That's the extent of my involvement other than trying to de escalate the situation from the stage.
This isn't the first time security was not present to handle unruly passengers. It should not be my position or job to do so.
Since filing a sexual harassment (Oct. '24) complaint against a male crew member, A Comedy Club Host, I received Zero support from HR or the office. I've received nothing but negative complaints and feedback, some out right slanderous lies with No support from the office, but supporting these allegations. Too many futile attempts on my behalf to reach out. I was the only one trying to meet and resolve any issues out problems. No effort by CCL to help me and I Pleaded.
For over Twenty years I've proudly represented, protected and defended Carnival. I've been commended many times not just for my performances, but as a crew member. I'm a proud Navy Veteran, disabled and still able to do the work with any cruise line who supports and protects their crew and team members.
This was mishandled. Unfairly.
*Not fairly warned of a problem or issues.
*Not given the tools or opportunity to rectify
*No support of any type after a traumatic sexual harassment encounter on the job.
*I was not told my statement to security was mandatory.
Security should be there since it's 18+ "Anything Goes" comedy.
*The office offered no positive feedback to build on in order to rectify any issues.
No Warnings, Guidance, Council, Support, HR interest ... nothing that said "we care or we support or believe you let's make it better" Nothing.
After three months of being targeted, left to fend for myself on and offstage with no support team, of course I wanted no part of any drunk passenger problems. I was not the problem.
I repeat. I didn't reach out to you. Just like you didn't reach out to me.”
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about crew safety and the handling of misconduct at sea. Critics point to Carnival’s failure to provide adequate security for late-night comedy shows—especially those with adult content and alcohol service—as a serious oversight that puts both entertainers and guests at risk.
Social media support for Eason is growing under the hashtag #IStandWithDerek, with calls for Carnival to publicly address the incident and launch an independent review of both Eason’s termination and his sexual harassment complaint.
As of now, Derrick Eason is exploring new opportunities, with industry figures and fans rallying behind him. After more than two decades of service, his supporters say, he deserves far better.
Photo Credit: Derrick Eason
