Tenacious D cancels tour after backlash over controversial Trump remark. Read about the incident, responses, and implications.

Introduction

Tenacious D have cancelled the rest of their Australian and New Zealand tour after Kyle Gass’s Trump assassination comment

The comedy rock band Tenacious D have cancelled the remaining shows of their Australian and New Zealand tour after bandmate Kyle Gass’s comment about the recent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump.

Controversial Remark and Backlash

At a show in Sydney, Gass made a comment about the failed Trump assassination saying “Don’t miss Trump next time” when asked to make a birthday wish. Some audience members and public figures were outraged, including Australian senator Ralph Babet who called for the band to be deported, saying the comment was “egregious, disgusting, filthy and evil.”

Band’s Response and Tour Cancellation

Jack Black said he was “blindsided” by Gass’s comment and no longer felt it was right to continue the tour. Black said “I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form.” Gass also apologised saying “it was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake.

The Newcastle show was postponed and Black announced “all future creative plans are on hold” as a result of the controversy. Tenacious D had six shows left in Australia and New Zealand and a series of October shows with nonpartisan organisation Rock the Vote.

Takeaways

It’s a reminder how sensitive political violence is and how public figures need to be careful when talking about it even in jest. Black’s decision to cancel the tour is about not promoting hate or extremism even if it means artistic and financial loss.