As the word spread that Stephen Lynch would be performing on campus this semester, many students raised questions regarding his "offensive" and "sensitive" jokes.
The Social Planning and Events Committee announced yesterday that Lynch would perform at its annual fall show on Oct. 17 at Irvine Auditorium.
Lynch, who is known for stand-up comedy and songs such as "Special Olympics" and "If I Were Gay," has many fans at Penn, but there are also many who dislike the subjects of his jokes.
And there are also students who have never heard of Lynch or his songs.
"I'm not really excited because I don't know who he is. I would rather they bring someone more mainstream," said College sophomore Richard Cappadona.
Lynch was chosen with student input, though, said SPEC Concerts co-director and College junior Preston Hershorn. He added that Lynch was no less prominent than past fall performers, who are typically more low-profile than the spring performers.
But he said that the Concerts committee was "definitely hoping to attract a bit of a different crowd this year."
Those who do know of Lynch are wondering what sort of reaction his performance will receive, considering his often-objectionable content.
"It will be interesting to see if there is a negative reaction to his pretty offensive subject matter," said College sophomore Greg Wall. "If the point was to get an atypical comedian, I'd prefer someone like Sarah Silverman."
Hershorn acknowledged that Lynch is a "polarizing figure" and that his lyrics are "controversial," but he said that enough of the student body would appreciate his humor to justify the choice.
Such students like College sophomore Kaneesha Parsard appreciate Lynch's humor by taking it with a grain of salt.
"I've always watched [Lynch] on Comedy Central, and I've always found him very hilarious in an irreverent sort of way," said Parsard.
She added that although she is from a minority group, she didn't take offense to Lynch's jokes because she thought his intentions were good.
Not all students share her opinion.
"I personally think that Stephen Lynch is a poor entertainer - both regarding delivery and taste," said Wharton sophomore Erik Buischi.
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