In the second episode of Season 2 of Nathan Fielder’s HBO series The Rehearsal, the show delves into complex themes surrounding censorship and the challenges of addressing sensitive topics. Fielder draws parallels between aviation safety—specifically co-pilots’ reluctance to speak up—and his own struggles with Paramount+ regarding the removal of a controversial episode from Nathan for You. This episode, which featured a provocative Holocaust awareness campaign, was taken down due to sensitivities following recent geopolitical events, highlighting the impact of censorship on artistic expression.

Fielder reflects on the success of his Summit Ice clothing line, which emerged from the backlash against Holocaust denial, and how it has raised significant funds for Holocaust education. However, he reveals that the episode’s removal was influenced by Paramount+ Germany’s discomfort with anti-Semitic themes, leading to a global decision to pull it from streaming. This situation underscores the broader implications of censorship and the challenges faced by creators in navigating corporate sensitivities.

Throughout the episode, Fielder employs absurdist humor and theatrical setups to explore these serious issues, including a scene where he engages with an actor portraying a Nazi. This interaction reveals the difficulty of achieving genuine understanding in discussions about sensitive topics, as Fielder’s comedic approach raises questions about sincerity and the complexities of addressing historical trauma. Ultimately, the episode serves as a commentary on the fine line between humor and offense, and the challenges of fostering meaningful dialogue in a climate of heightened sensitivity.