Jack Black’s band Tenacious D cancels tour over Trump shooting comments
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
(From left) Kyle Gass and Jack Black of American rock duo Tenacious D.
PHOTO: WBEI
Follow topic:
NEW YORK – The American rock duo Tenacious D have cancelled tour dates following controversial onstage comments linked to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, lead singer Jack Black said on July 16.
Performing in Sydney, Australia, over the weekend, Black, a comedian and actor, presented bandmate Kyle Gass with a birthday cake and told him to make a wish. Gass responded by saying: “Don’t miss Trump next time.”
A video of the apparent reference to a rally shooting the day before,
“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 said on July 16 on Instagram.
“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 similarly apologised on Instagram: “The line I improvised on Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake.
“I don’t condone violence in any kind, in any form, against anyone. What happened was a tragedy, and I’m incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgment.”
The comedy rockers formed their band in 1994 in Los Angeles. As an actor, Black is known for roles including the voice of the character Po in the Kung Fu Panda (2008 to 2024) movies.
He and Gass recently played a string of dates – part of The Spicy Meatball Tour – across the United States and Europe, and were scheduled to play a leg across Australia and New Zealand, before a few more venues in the US in autumn. AFP
