“Don’t Miss Trump Next Time” Tenacious D Faces Backlash Over Assassination Joke
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An offensive joke about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump has landed Jack Black and his Tenacious D bandmate, Kyle Gass, in serious trouble. During a performance in Sydney, Australia, the comedic duo celebrated Gass’ 64th birthday by bringing out a cake with lighted candles. When Black asked his bandmate to make a wish, Gass joked, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” before blowing out the candles, as reported by The Wrap.
While the majority of the audience at the Sydney venue laughed, the reaction online was far less forgiving. Netizens were quick to condemn Gass’ joke as highly inappropriate. In response to the growing backlash, Black addressed the incident and announced the postponement of the remaining dates on the Tenacious D tour. Gass, however, has remained silent since making the controversial remark.
“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 in a statement to The Blast. “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.”
Conservative influencer Chris Loesch, a former fan of the duo, expressed his disappointment on social media. “I used to love Tenacious D and thought Jack Black was funny. None of them or their music/movies will ever be played in our home again. Ever. Sickening. Not funny and done in a foreign country is even worse.” Social media personality Brian Krassenstein also weighed in, stating that the band was “rightfully” receiving criticism and had taken comedy “too far.”
Just last month, Black, a devoted Democrat, had openly endorsed President Joe Biden. He took the stage at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles for a Democratic fundraiser, recounting with humor how his manager had called to request his participation. Black responded enthusiastically, “I am in. When and where?” He humorously listed the events he had to cancel, including being an emcee at a bat mitzvah, attending the opening of a new Jack in the Box in Oxnard, and judging the Imperial Valley Avocado Festival.
“You don’t see that on Meryl Streep’s résumé,” Black joked, insisting he couldn’t turn down a request from the president. Declaring, “My president needs me,” he recounted how his manager pointed out he had nothing suitable to wear. Undeterred, Black proudly revealed his choice of attire: “My kick-ass American flag overalls — most patriotic outfit of all times.”
He even joked about a prospective “sweet shout-out” from the president in his victory speech if he wins in November. Concluding with a light-hearted note, Black said, “Mr. President, you’re welcome.” Despite the recent controversy, Black’s previous comedic and political engagements highlight the complexities of navigating humor and politics in the public eye.
