Unless you're living under a rock, you know there was assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump's life during a rally near Butler, PA on July 13. Gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks clipped Trump's ear, killed rally attendee Corey Comperatore, and injured two others in the crowd.
That same night, Tenacious D was playing a show in Sydney, Australia which was also vocalist and guitarist Kyle Gass' 64th birthday. When asked to make a wish for his birthday, Gass responded: "Don't miss Trump next time."
Now the other half of Tenacious D – vocalist and guitarist Jack Black – has issued a statement saying he was blindsided by the comment, and doesn't feel right continuing their tour or any creative endeavors. So don't hold your breath for that new Tenacious D album, because chances seem very low that it's coming.
"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," wrote Black. "After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour, and all future creative plans are on hold. I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding."
Gass has since responded to the backlash on his Instagram, saying in a statement: "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. What happened was a tragedy, and I'm incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgement. I profoundly apologize to those I've let down and truly regret any pain I've caused."
BBC further notes that United Australia senator Ralph Babet asked for the band to be deported after the comment: "I condemn in the strongest possible way the call to political violence by Tenacious D in Sydney on Sunday," he said. "To advocate and or wish for the assassination of a President is egregious, disgusting, filthy, evil, and not acceptable in any way, shape or form."
