Achmed the Dead Terrorist is a puppet character from ventriloquist Jeff Dunham’s comedy acts. The character has not undergone any significant changes and continues to be a part of Dunham’s performances.
Jeff Dunham introduced Achmed the Dead Terrorist, a skeletal puppet with a Middle Eastern accent and a turban, in his act in 2007. The character quickly became one of his most famous creations, known for the catchphrase “Silence! I kill you!” Despite the controversial nature of the character, which has drawn criticism from some quarters for perpetuating stereotypes, Achmed has remained a staple of Dunham’s comedy shows.
The character is used by Dunham to satirize terrorism and related issues through dark humor. Achmed is portrayed as an incompetent suicide bomber, who often discusses his ineptitude and misunderstandings about Western culture. The act typically involves Achmed bantering with Dunham about various topics, including terrorism, martyrdom, and misunderstandings about his own death.
Over the years, Achmed has appeared in various specials and has even had an animated film, “Achmed Saves America,” where the character inadvertently comes to America and embarks on a misguided adventure. Despite the controversies, Dunham’s character continues to be popular among his fans, and he has expanded his cast of characters to include other personalities, though Achmed remains one of the most recognized. Jeff Dunham continues to tour and perform live shows with Achmed and his other characters, adapting his material to new audiences and current events.