In her book "Yeah, I Said It," Wanda Sykes recounts a memorable experience at a feminist benefit event where she performed comedy in front of prominent feminists, including Gloria Steinem. Sykes made a provocative joke about the expectations in her relationship, intending to be humorous. However, the audience did not respond positively to her remarks, indicating that they found her comments offensive rather than funny. This unexpected reaction made her realize she had crossed a line.

Sykes attempted to diffuse the situation by insisting her comment was just a joke, adding that her partner enjoyed intimate moments at any time, not just by a set time. This incident highlights the challenges comedians face when addressing sensitive topics and demonstrates the unpredictability of audience reactions. It reflects the delicate balance between humor and social commentary, especially in spaces dedicated to feminist ideals.