Comedian Dave Chappelle says he may never return to his hit Comedy Central show if the US cable network goes through with plans to air new episodes culled from material he filmed before leaving the series.

"I feel like it's kind of a bully move," Chappelle said this week. "That's just how I feel about it. I don't know if that's the case. But if people don't watch it, then I'd be more than happy."

Last May, Chappelle stunned his fans and the entertainment industry by skipping out on a $50 million contract and leaving Chappelle's Show in mid-production. He spent two weeks in South Africa before returning home to his farm near Yellow Springs, Ohio. He has since resumed performing live stand-up.

Chappelle said his possible return to Chappelle's Show — which soared to popularity with its provocative point of view — is still up in the air.

"But I think if they air that stuff, I can't see how I'm going to be able to," he said. "That will damage our relationship."

Comedy Central has said in the past it plans to air the material, but wouldn't comment on any current specific plans.

"We are still waiting patiently for Dave to return to work, but we know that our viewers are looking forward to seeing the material he produced for the third season," Comedy Central said in a written statement.