Jewish comedian Jerry Sadowitz has had his Edinburgh Fringe show cancelled following audience complaints.

Venue The Pleasance said the veteran standup’s famously shocking act “does not align with our values” after he performed his first show on Friday night.

Writing on Twitter, Mr Sadowitz said: “Did a show last night, 75 mins, thought it went well. Didn't see any walkouts. Today I’m told my show's been cancelled. Great stuff. I'm truly sorry for everyone who travelled to see the show tonight.”

The performance in question was entitled “Jerry Sadowitz: Not for Anyone” and potential audience members were warned that it contained “strong language and themes some may find distressing”.

Mr Sadowitz was born in New Jersey to a Scottish-Jewish mother and American-Jewish father. At seven, he moved with his mother to her native Glasgow.

In the 1980s, he became a star of the alternative comedy circuit with a deeply provocative brand of comedy.

A 1987 recording of Mr Sadowitz’s Edinburgh Fringe show was removed from sale due to fears Jimmy Saville would sue over accusations the presenter was a paedophile.

In 1991, Mr Sadowitz was knocked unconscious at a show in Montreal after telling the crowd: “I tell you why I hate Canada, half of you speak French, and the other half let them.” 

Theatre director Anthony Alderson said: “The Pleasance is a venue that champions freedom of speech and we do not censor comedians’ material. 

“While we acknowledge that Jerry Sadowitz has often been controversial, the material presented at his first show is not acceptable and does not align with our values. 

“This type of material has no place on the festival and the Pleasance will not be presenting his second and final show.”