Jack Black has confirmed the cancellation of Tenacious D’s Australia and New Zealand tour following widespread backlash to his bandmate Kyle Gass’s Donald Trump comment.
Gass, one half of the comedy-rock duo with Black, faced criticism this week over a controversial comment made at the band’s recent Sydney concert.
When Black brought a birthday cake onstage and asked Gass, who was celebrating his 64th birthday, to make a wish, Gass responded, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” referring to the recent attack on the former US President.
Gass’s comment was met with condemnation in Australia.
Senator Ralph Babet, leader of the United Australia Party, took to social media to demand that Tenacious D be deported for Gass’s joke. In a statement, Babet claimed Glass’ comments were in fact not a joke, and he called on Australia’s immigration minister Andrew Giles to “revoke their visas.”
Even Kyle Sandilands was shocked by the comment, with Tenacious D being banned from The Kyle and Jackie O Show for life.
After the next date on the tour in Newcastle on Tuesday, July 16th was postponed, Black has now confirmed their entire Australian tour has been cancelled.
“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,” the Hollywood actor said in a statement. “After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour.”
Black also hinted at a potential hiatus for the band, stating that “all future creative plans are on hold.”
“I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding,” he added.
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The Grammy Award-winning pair had dates remaining in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide, as well as two shows in New Zealand.
Gass has issued an apology for his Trump comment, calling it “highly inappropriate, dangerous, and a terrible mistake.”
“I don’t condone violence of any kind, in any form, against anyone,” he shared in his own statement. “What happened was a tragedy, and I’m incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgement. I profoundly apologise to those I’ve let down and truly regret any pain I’ve caused.”
