Jack Black, known for his comedic prowess and electrifying performances with Tenacious D, has found himself in the eye of a storm after his bandmate's controversial comment. Tenacious D's Kyle Gass made a remark about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump that has rocked their ongoing tour and forced an abrupt halt.
The duo had been entertaining fans with their Spicy Meatball Tour across Australia and New Zealand when the incident occurred. During a performance in Sydney, Gass was presented with a cake to celebrate his 64th birthday. When asked to make a wish, he quipped, "Don't miss Trump next time," sparking immediate backlash. The comment was met with laughter from some in the crowd, but the wider reaction was anything but jovial.
United Australia Party senator Ralph Babet was among the first to condemn the statement, demanding the band’s deportation. "To advocate or wish for the assassination of a President is egregious, disgusting, filthy, evil, and not acceptable in any way shape or form," Babet said in a press release. Social media was also abuzz, with many expressing their outrage, and even billionaire Elon Musk labeled the comment as "evil."
Jack Black was swift to respond, taking to Instagram to share his dismay and announce the cancellation of the remaining tour dates and future creative plans. "I was blindsided by what was said at the show on Sunday. I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form," Black wrote. He emphasized that after much reflection, continuing the tour would not be appropriate. Black expressed gratitude for the support and understanding from their fans during this tumultuous time.
Recognizing the gravity of his mistake, Gass issued a heartfelt apology on social media. "The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake. I don't condone violence of any kind, in any form, against anyone," he confessed. He went on to express deep regret and offered apologies to those he let down.
The ramifications of the comment were immediate and significant. Gass parted ways with his agent Michael Greene, who confirmed their professional split following the controversial remark. "Due to what occurred, we have parted ways," Greene told BBC News.
The incident has overshadowed an already tense period, as former President Trump recently survived an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. The FBI identified the perpetrator as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old kitchen worker from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, who was subsequently killed by a Secret Service sniper. The tragic event left one spectator dead and two others seriously injured.
The uproar caused by Gass's comment adds another layer to the polarizing political climate surrounding Trump. This event is a stark reminder of the potential consequences when political discourse crosses the line into advocacy of violence. For Tenacious D, a band celebrated for its humor and musical talent, this controversy marks a significant deviation from their usual escapades.
The Spicy Meatball Tour was meant to include seven shows across Australia and New Zealand, all of which were sold out, except for their final performance in Auckland. Fans expressed their disappointment over the cancellation, but many understood Jack Black's position. Concert promoters and fans alike are left in a state of uncertainty about the band’s future.
Gass's comment has reignited a broader conversation about the responsibility of public figures and artists in the realm of political speech. While artistic expression often pushes boundaries, it also brings with it a need for caution, particularly in the sensitive arena of political discourse.
As Tenacious D fans ponder what lies ahead for the band, Jack Black’s words offer a somber reflection: "I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding." Only time will tell how this incident will shape the future of one of comedy rock’s most beloved acts.