British-Irish comedian Jimmy Carr has ignited controversy among Greeks following a Facebook post made during his visit to North Macedonia.
Carr, currently on a stand-up tour across the Balkans, shared a photo from Skopje’s central square, where a statue of Alexander the Great stands prominently. In his initial caption, he wrote, “Friendly Balkans,” later adding, “I’m in Skopje, Macedonia – the homeland of Alexander the Great, who – fun fact – shares the same middle name as Winnie the Pooh.”
The post quickly drew backlash from Greek followers, who flooded the comments section with criticisms over the historical inaccuracy.
Despite the uproar, Carr did not directly address the complaints or engage with his critics.
In an apparent attempt to defuse the situation, Carr reposted the same caption from Belgrade, Serbia, sparking further reactions.
A Serbian commenter added humour to the situation, writing, “Alexander the Great, or as we call him in Serbia, Penter.”
Carr’s Balkan tour has been a mix of comedy and controversy.
He is set to perform in Cyprus on 9 January and in Athens, Greece, on 25 March at the Christmas Theatre.
The original post has since become a focal point for online debate, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding historical and cultural narratives in the region.
