Woman at comedy show reveals why she always keeps an ‘empty seat’ for her dad

There might be a special reason behind things that seem odd at first glance. A woman named Ritika, who always kept an empty seat beside her wherever she went, was pulled up on this tradition by comedian Max Amini, who goes by @maxcomedian on Instagram. When another audience member was moving up rows for a better view of his show, Max was perplexed by why this woman wouldn't let anybody claim the empty seat beside her. "I asked if anybody's sitting there. You said no," he began.

The woman explained, "No. So, I lost my father last year. Wherever I go, I purchase a seat just for him." The audience clapped, and Amini remarked, "That's so sweet. First of all, many blessings to your father." Ritika revealed that she was from India, and the comedian told her that it was nice to meet her and went on to make her laugh while comforting her at the same time. "I also believe that when someone passes away, they are always with you. I am Iranian and I lost my father in 2015," Amini shared. 

He was quick to point out that he would never replicate her gesture, though. "You know why? Because if I did that, my father's soul would be so unhappy." The comedian went on, "My father would be like, 'Max Amini, why are you wasting money? I am in heaven... having a great time. What did I teach you? You grew up to be an idiot.'" After a short break filled with audience laughter, he added in his father's accent, "I don't even want to hang out with you." Were he present, Amini's dad would say, "Finally, I died to be away from you guys. Now you are forcing me to come from heaven to watch this?"

As the woman wiped her tears a little, Amini told her, "Hold on, did you hear that? I just heard your father laugh." The man continued, "He goes, 'What a funny guy! I don't care. I like to come sit next to my daughter and watch your show, Max Amini.'" The caption read, "Whether your dads are here or beyond, their wisdom always lives on. A father’s lessons stay with you forever... and sometimes, their absurdity too. In the end, it’s all love." People shared their thoughts on the incident in the comments section of the video and appreciated what the comedian did for the woman.

@jimmi.r.g wrote, "He made fun of the situation, but respected her decision too by mentioning her father in the end." @tamara_noel_speaks commented, "That was so great! It's incredible how he thought on his feet like that. He made her laugh and switched the whole dynamic. He made it a great experience for her." @hg6 remarked, "Sure, he did a lovely piece there, but I have a feeling he did more than that, actually helping her move on from something she wasn’t. I hope it helped her." @gregkennedystudio shared, "Perhaps one of the best pieces of improvised comedy I’ve ever seen. Sincere and heartfelt humour. With love from the heavens."

You can follow Max Amini (@maxcomedian) on Instagram for more comedic content.